Cambodia 2025: A Journey Completed

The Cambodia 2025 team has returned home after an incredible 13 days in Cambodia, having made a real and lasting impact.

Finishing the Build

The team worked tirelessly alongside Habitat for Humanity Cambodia and local skilled workers to complete a safe and beautiful new home for Mr Sim, Mrs Tour, and their children, Tra and Samphors. The final day on-site saw the team finishing the flooring and adding the last touches. Their efforts culminated in a heartwarming ceremony with ribbon-cutting, gift exchanges, a shared meal, and music, laughter, and dancing – a perfect celebration of the home they helped create.

Team Leader Katie Thompson said:
“The team did really well in getting the last of our tasks completed. It was really nice to see how much the family appreciated our help and we wish them the best on moving into their new home.”

Learning and Exploring

After the build, the team embraced Cambodia’s rich culture and history. Highlights included visiting Siem Reap and the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, exploring the Bayon Temple, Banteay Srei, and Ta Prohm (famed from Tomb Raider), and travelling by boat on Tonle Sap to see the floating villages. They also experienced the ancient Apsara Dance and visited the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh.

The team paid respectful visits to memorials at The Killing Field and Prison 21, reflecting on Cambodia’s tragic history and reinforcing their commitment to promoting understanding and preventing future injustices. Evenings were filled with local experiences, including dinner on the Mekong River.

A Team Effort

The Cambodia 2025 team would like to thank everyone who supported them. From those who fundraised and contributed financially, to the leaders and Habitat staff who guided and inspired them along the way. Special thanks go to Lot, Thida, and all at Habitat for Humanity Cambodia, and to their team leaders Des Grant, David Scott, Stephen Mallett, and Katie Thompson for their dedication, passion, and care.

Team members Cameron Colgan, James Farry, Steven George, Robbie Henderson, Zoe Kerr, Declan Larkin, Oliver Mercer, Amelia Rogers, Ian Stewart, Kathleen Stewart, and Caitlyn Watson returned having grown, learned, and left a lasting legacy in Cambodia. Their actions have extended far beyond the walls of the new home, creating a ripple effect of teamwork and cultural understanding.

Welcome Home

The team arrived back in Belfast on 22 August, proud of their achievements and grateful for the chance to make a difference.

As Habitat for Humanity Ireland said:
“Welcome Home to the team who arrived back from Phnom Penh earlier today! Thank you for everything you have contributed to Habitat’s mission, including raising funds for the most vulnerable, working hard onsite and encouraging the local Habitat team. You have made a real difference to people’s lives!”

The team carries with them new experiences, friendships, and a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s people, culture, and history – ready to be ambassadors for positive change in their communities and beyond!

Story submitted by David Scott