Moana Shimada

What makes me continue with TASSEL is the community. Personally, I wouldn’t consider myself someone who naturally engages in activities like helping the poor. But TASSEL is different. Unlike many organizations, TASSEL focuses not only on providing education but also on building genuine, lasting relationships. It’s not just about charity—it’s about empowerment and community. The connections we form here are deeply personal and precious, and the organization has a unique soul that resonates with the true spirit of the people in Cambodia. That’s what draws me back, time and time again.

There’s so much hope in this land and in this organization. Every time I see the commitment of even one person positively impacting the lives of those in need, it reminds me of the potential for change that exists here. The resilience of the people in Cambodia, combined with the mission of TASSEL, fills me with optimism. Knowing that my contributions, no matter how small, can slightly ease someone’s life or brighten their future—it gives me countless reasons to return to Cambodia.

One moment that left an unforgettable mark on me happened during my second visit to Cambodia. One of my students from Jeepan came all the way to Samrang just to see me. From what the Khmer teacher shared, he had begged his parents for three days to let him come. In the end, he walked the entire way on his own. That level of determination and love from my students took me by surprise. I pour 100% of my love and effort into teaching them, but I never expected that same level of love to be returned. Moments like this remind me of how deep the connections we build here truly are. They go beyond teacher-student relationships; they are bonds that transcend words.

The Khmer teachers are truly remarkable. They’re not just kind and compassionate; they possess a level of warmth and generosity that feels almost miraculous. Even if you traveled the world, you might never find souls as pure and giving as theirs. Many of them come from underprivileged backgrounds themselves, yet their dedication to helping others is unmatched. It’s inspiring, and they truly deserve the world for what they do.

I feel incredibly fortunate to have discovered TASSEL. It’s a place where values align and where lives—both of the volunteers and the people in Cambodia—are transformed. My hope is that more people with similar values will find their way to TASSEL and experience what makes this organization so special.

TASSEL isn’t just an organization; it’s a movement of hope, compassion, and change. I’m proud to call it my second home and to be part of something so meaningful.