Pili is a young woman from rural Cambodia whose life has been transformed through education and empowerment.
Thanks to the Jesuits in her home country and Catholic Mission Australia, which supported her education in Cambodia and IFFAsia, Quezon City, Philippines, from June 2022 to May 2023.
The generous assistance of the Catholic Mission Australia has made Pili's empowerment and education possible.
“I am thrilled to live and study in the Philippines, where there are so many opportunities for exposure to learning from varied cultural backgrounds,” Pili said.
She never imagined that one day she would study overseas.
“I am thankful to Jesuits for the God-given opportunity to learn and broaden my worldview with education and experience in the Philippines,” she added.
The educational system in Cambodia has many difficulties. In rural Cambodia, only 42 percent of children finish basic school, and only 10 percent finish high school.
The theme of International Women's Day in March 2024, "Invest in Women—Accelerate Progress," is perfectly embodied in Pili's tale.
By investing in a girl's education today, the church and society can empower her to become a powerful force for change in her community and society tomorrow.
“My journey would serve as an inspiration for all, showing that there is a greater need to help and empower the most vulnerable girls and women in Cambodia or elsewhere,” Pili said.
Educated and empowered women may go on to lead and hasten the transformation of their nation's destiny and future, she added.
One of the primary concerns of Jesuits and Cambodia has been assisting disadvantaged and marginalized individuals—like rural schoolchildren who aren't receiving an education—to have access to a world of new opportunities and a better future.
Pili's experience studying in the Philippines with a scholarship from the Catholic Mission Australia has changed her life.
“I do hope, like me, more young people receive scholarships and high-quality education to build their lives and futures,” Pili said.
“I am eagerly waiting to inspire more women in Cambodia to study and equip themselves to contribute to society for sustainable development,” she added.
