Em Mom, 41, grew up in Kampot province in southwestern Cambodia. Following in the footsteps of her parents, Mom took up rice cultivation and small-scale livestock farming to help support her own family. But as her family’s needs grew over time, she struggled to generate enough income to meet them.

“We could barely make ends meet. We tried everything so we could pay off our debts,” Mom shares. “My husband migrated to Phnom Penh to take up construction work. It was a trying time for all of us.”

Choosing Opportunity in the Face of Hardship

When World Renew’s local partner, OREDA, began an agriculture and food security project in Mom’s village, she was eager to participate. “Many neighbours looked down on my family because we earned so little,” Mom says. “I did not let this humiliation stop me from improving my family’s condition. That’s why I grabbed the opportunity when OREDA launched their project in my neighbourhood.”

Through the program, Mom received training in livestock production and ongoing support to strengthen her skills. With consistent participation and a clear determination to improve her family’s circumstances, she began to see tangible changes.

Looking Ahead with Hope

Today, Mom can earn an additional $300–$370 USD each month through her livestock activities. The extra income has opened doors she once thought were closed and restored her sense of possibility for the future.

“I dream of expanding the livestock so I can increase my savings,” Mom says. “I want to reap the fruit that enables my whole family to benefit from, especially for my children’s education.”

Mom’s story reflects the resilience and determination shared by families around the world who are working to overcome poverty and build a more hopeful future. Through locally led partnerships and practical training, small economic opportunities can grow into lasting change—for parents, children, and entire communities.