Chanleak started teaching kindergarten in 2017 at the age of 18. Despite having little experience and very limited training, she entered the classroom believing that teaching was her calling.
“Teaching young children was not an easy job for me as I started from scratch. A new challenge came up every day,” she remembers. “But that didn’t stop me from being a teacher. I just needed a steppingstone to connect my passion with the profession.”
Building Skills, Strengthening Classrooms
That steppingstone came through training opportunities offered by World Renew’s local partner, OREDA. Chanleak participated in a range of courses designed to strengthen both practical skills and confidence, including classroom management, curriculum design, inclusive education, engaging young learners, creating teaching materials, and pedagogy.
With each session, Chanleak deepened her understanding of how children learn and how to create an environment where every student can thrive. What once felt overwhelming became an opportunity for growth.
Confidence That Reaches Beyond the Classroom
Today, Chanleak feels equipped with the skills she needs to do the job she loves. Her confidence shows in her classroom and in the relationships she has built with families. Parents express their appreciation, and her professionalism has contributed to broader success at her school.
Her efforts, alongside her colleagues, helped the school meet key quality standards, resulting in formal recognition from the Ministry of Education—an achievement that reflects both individual dedication and collective progress.
A Lasting Impact on Community Development
Looking back on her teaching journey, Chanleak sees how far she has come—and how much further she hopes to go.
“Seeing my improvement in this profession makes me more excited for the journey ahead,” she says. “I embrace my service to the children in the community, and I am always grateful for the support that I receive.”
Investing in teachers like Chanleak does more than improve classroom experiences. It strengthens entire communities by equipping educators to nurture the next generation with skill, care, and confidence.
