Raelan Barbosa

How did you find Aziza’s Place?

While traveling in Phnom Penh I decided that I wanted to do some volunteer work.  A friend I made directed me to AP and I loved the organization instantly!

What brings you here? What is your motivation to come?

I am travelling for one year in South East Asia, Australia and New Zealand. I have become particularly attached to Cambodia and love Phnom Penh. I have wanted to have an extended travelling experience for years and just recently finally had the opportunity to do so. I hope to meet new people, learn about the culture in this part of the world and have some amazing new adventures and experiences.

What are you doing or did you do at AP?

I am teaching English and computers to some of the Khmer AP staff, tutoring children and assisting them with various projects, working on some promotional posters for AP, attending staff meetings and spending time getting to know all the wonderful children.

What advice would you give to new volunteers?

I would suggest enjoying each moment for what it is, getting to know the children and staff in as many ways as you can, and to let go of your heart and head and just go wherever each day’s experiences take you! 

What did you do before coming to AP?

Most recently I was traveling in Australia, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.  Prior to this I was a social worker in Canada in a Neonatal Intensive Care unit in a hospital.

What are your plans for after AP?

I plan to continue travelling back through Thailand, to Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and New Zealand.

What’s your favourite memory at AP?

My favorite moment was on my first day at AP when I was nervous about being there and a beautiful little girl came and sat on my lap and instantly put me at ease.  It really set the tone for the rest of the experience and opened me up to getting to know the people around me!