Seamus’s Six Weeks with Volunteer Building Cambodia

Hello to all at VBC and everyone reading this!

My name is Seamus, and I’m from Ireland. For many years, I wanted to get involved in charity volunteer work. Everyone has their own reasons for volunteering. For me, it was a growing sense that, living in the developed Western world, we often turn a blind eye to less fortunate countries—places where people don’t have the simple luxuries we take for granted every day. That feeling didn’t sit well with me.

I began searching online for volunteering opportunities, and the options were overwhelming. After some research, VBC in Cambodia tugged at my heart. Their Facebook page showcased daily achievements with transparency and clarity, and the organization’s mission resonated deeply with me. In 2018, I sent an email inquiry about becoming a volunteer. The reply I received was like a personal letter: thorough, kind, and full of gratitude. I knew then that I had found the charity I wanted to support.

From that point on, I began supporting VBC whenever I could—through fundraising initiatives, contributions to wells, or just small donations. I firmly believe that if someone like me, of simple means, can afford to give even a little, anyone can. Often, we spend money on things we don’t need, while so many people around the world lack essentials like clean water, sanitation, or a safe home. A little bit of dignity costs so little but means so much.

The Journey Begins

Plans to travel to Cambodia in 2019 were delayed by COVID, and life kept getting in the way over the following years. But in January 2025, I decided: enough waiting. Charity would be my priority. I booked my flight to Siem Reap, and after a grueling 22-hour journey, I arrived ready to finally fulfill a dream that had tugged at my heart for years.

Shortly after my arrival, I received a text from Sela ensuring that everything had been arranged for me and that we would meet soon. A few hours later, I met Sela, Seyla, and Sivenhhinh. I have to admit, my sense of humor may not have landed perfectly that first meeting, but their warmth and kindness were unmistakable.

That weekend, I was invited to join the team on their annual temple visit, where they bring food and donations to monks. Sela picked me up with her family, and meeting her husband Selien for the first time felt like reconnecting with a lifelong friend. Over the next few mornings, I was greeted by his ever-present smile and infectious good vibes.

At the VBC office, I was welcomed by everyone, including Dalin—the same person who had replied to my first email years ago—who hugged me and said, “We are your new family now.” That moment, full of genuine kindness, made me feel instantly at home. Later that day, we shared a beautiful lunch, full of laughter, songs, and camaraderie.

First Week in the Warehouse

My first week as a volunteer began in the warehouse, working alongside three remarkable men: Bunthoeun, Mr. Vuth, and Mr. Det. Bunthoeun, about to retire, joked that he was “too old,” but with a little encouragement, he rediscovered his youthful energy. Mr. Vuth, initially reserved and seemingly sad, quickly bonded with me through humor and fun, his joy returning. And Mr. Det, who spoke no English at the time, transformed over a few weeks into a confident, outgoing person fluent in four languages.

I owe a special thank you to Mr. Det. From the moment we met, he treated me like a brother, guiding me, helping me, and including me in weekend trips and adventures. I couldn’t have asked for a better friend during this solo travel experience.

Becoming “Somnang”

During my first week, we worked on laying brick pathways around the school, a team effort involving teachers, office staff, and builders. It was also a chance to get to know each other better. Pronouncing my name, Seamus, was a challenge for some, but Rathana came up with a nickname: “Somnang.” That simple gesture gave me a personal identity within my new family—a small act of kindness that I will treasure forever. From that day, I introduced myself as Somnang, proudly.

Meeting the students was an unforgettable experience. Their curiosity, enthusiasm, and iconic Cambodian smiles immediately made an impression. Observing teachers and students interact, I could see the dedication and care in every lesson. The students’ thirst for knowledge and the teachers’ commitment to nurturing that curiosity were inspiring. I witnessed education in its purest, most heartfelt form—a reminder that impactful teaching and learning isn’t about the latest technology or methods but about human connection, respect, and passion.

Working on House Projects

One of the main reasons I came to VBC was to see house-building projects firsthand. In the warehouse, I gained a deep appreciation for the precision and skill involved. Every piece of timber, metal, and material was carefully measured, drilled, and assembled entirely by human hands—no robotic machines, just intelligence, experience, and care.

Visiting the communities to build homes brought me face-to-face with the challenges families endure. Even small interventions—like building one house—made an enormous difference. The families we helped welcomed us with open hearts, preparing simple yet flavorful meals. I loved seeing their pride as I appreciated the food they had lovingly prepared, and sharing in these moments created memories I’ll never forget.

A moment that will remain etched in my heart was when a little six-year-old girl ran up to me and said, “Thank you,” her eyes shining with genuine gratitude. It was humbling and deeply moving, reminding me why volunteering is so meaningful.

Celebrating Life and Friendship

On September 24, my birthday, the VBC team surprised me with a celebration that I will never forget. After years without such an experience, I felt joy, warmth, and a sense of belonging that I had never known. That day exemplified the spirit of VBC: a community bound by kindness, fun, and care.

I also want to highlight some incredible colleagues: Bunnaroth, whose humor and dedication made each day brighter, and Hansom (as I nicknamed him), whose potential and energy I deeply admire. And of course, Sinn, the visionary leader behind VBC—your passion, empathy, and commitment to your people are inspiring. You led by example, balancing deep thought with warmth and humor, and I felt privileged to witness it firsthand.

Reflections on My VBC Experience

Six weeks at VBC were beyond my expectations. I arrived seeking to contribute, but I left with so much more: lifelong friends, a deeper understanding of Cambodian communities, and a renewed sense of purpose. From the warehouse to the school, from building homes to sharing meals, every moment was filled with learning, laughter, and connection.

I leave Cambodia with a stronger drive to support VBC and help it continue to grow. I know there are compassionate people out there, and I hope to connect with them to ensure that VBC thrives.

To everyone at VBC who welcomed me, taught me, laughed with me, and shared this journey: thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am Somnang, proud to be part of your family, forever grateful for this unforgettable experience.

Somnang (Seamus)