It seemed a like a little far-fetched idea I hatched some time back. "I want to eradicate poverty through education." I never thought how I'd be doing it or when I'd be doing it. I just wanted to do it. It sounds like a UN initiative, I know. I don't plan to be the next Nobel Prize Winner, but I stay grounded in my starfish philosophy, knowing that what I can, will and should do can make a difference to at least one.
It made me sad when I travelled to Hanoi and to India, to see young children not having a chance to be educated, and here I am in Singapore, seeing our young taking education for granted. If I could, I would make them change places, so both will benefit. That was when I conceptualised the idea of "The World is My Classroom".
And so began my journey to seek out ways and learn alternatives to education, in hope of eradicating poverty globally. I stumbled upon the idea of social enterprises last year, and I liked the idea of making individuals less reliant on charities and handouts, and instead creating platforms to empower them to be more self-reliant. I liked the idea that the efforts were sustainable, and it had a snow-ball effect. It hinted an answer to what I was searching for in fulfilling my vision.
Grace highlighted Shinta Mani, a resort in Siem Reap that runs itself as a social enterprise. Its in-house culinary institute trains local Cambodians in culinary and hospitality skills so that they can be gainfully employed either at the resort or in the many sprouting hotel establishments in Cambodia. The resort even provides these selected Cambodians with a monthly stipend and necessities like rice for the family - things we take for granted.
And so, when Grace and I wanted to take a break, we thought of Shinta Mani immediately. Not only will we be able to see the Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, we'd be able to experience first-hand a social enterprise in action. We'd be visiting the local villages too and meeting up with the Head of the resort to find out more if we can contribute in other ways.
I'm not only excited by the infinite possibilities that can stem out of this trip, I am also happy that I am making a step forward towards fulfilling my vision.
