At Flame we believe that it is not just what we are doing but who does it that is important. Many of our staff have already travelled the same journey that our clients are on. Who better to lead the way?
Introducing: Sopheap
WHAT IS YOUR JOB WITH FLAME?
I began at Flame as a teacher at BTP and SMC with Flame Cambodia. I taught Khmer literature at BTP and SMC for primary and secondary students.
Now I am working as a Case Co-ordinator. I meet with families and children to assess their needs. I am so happy to be in Flame.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR FLAME?
I started over a year and a half ago.
WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I feel fulfilled that I can support these children who are poor and without Flame would not have access to education or help. I love the home visits, seeing the family in the community. It is very satisfying to help a family through a problem.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
Most of my spare time is taken up by my children, one is two and a half and the baby is four months old. I do like to listen to music when I get the chance.
WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND/HOW DID YOU END UP WORKING FOR FLAME?
I was born into a Christian family in the Province. My parents were divorced when I was very young, so my two sisters, one brother and I all grew up with our single mother.
Having only one parent resulted in us having very little money, and many struggles. I am thankful to God that even in our trails, and when we had nothing, He provided for my family, and gave us the means to attend a primary school from grade 1 to 3 and then attend a private school called Hope School from grade 4 to 12. My mother worked at the AOG, and so my siblings and I received a scholarship from them to attend this school.
Once I finished high school, I received another scholarship from the AOG to attend university. I studied Khmer Literature at the University of Cambodia in Phnom Phen, and have now graduated.
Since graduating from university, I went back to my hometown and taught Grades 8 and 9 at Hope school for a year. Toward the end of this year, I met a missionary from the Philippines.
Once I left Hope school I went to work with him for two years doing ministry, teaching the Bible and English.
Once I came back from working in ministry, I felt I needed a rest, but also needed a job to support myself. I really struggled to find something over this time and would pray to God for help. I was desperate. I had nothing and was very poor. I am thankful to God however as even though there were times things seemed hopeless, God always provided for me just in time, and he brought different people into my life to help me and to support me. Because of what God has done for me, by supporting me and sending people to help me, I want to do the same for others. I want God to use me to bless other people.
Deciding the best way In could do this would be by paying it forward by teaching children and others who are in need. Flame was introduced to me by my friend, and immediately I knew that was something I needed to be apart of. So I applied and asked God if it was his will, to let me pass the interview.
After the interview, I felt doubtful that I would not pass, but continued to trust God. Thankfully I received the good news I had been successful and was welcomed into the Flame family. I was so excited to be a part of this Christian Organisation which would give me the opportunity to help children.
WHAT MESSAGE OR ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE?
“you can’t escape from the problem“
If you have a problem you need to solve it!