Siem Reap, KH – Even the humblest seed can grow into something extraordinary – Aug 2025

Having reached the college level, Borey speaks English with confidence, a skill that would soon become invaluable. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he worked at a hotel, but the lockdowns cut that opportunity short, leaving him to return to the life he knew best: farming. Though his experience was limited, Borey’s determination to learn and grow never wavered. He believed that raising pigs and sheep could lift his family’s livelihood and would help him out of poverty. He succeeded in pig farming, yet a challenge stood in his way. The land he wished to cultivate belonged to someone else. Knowing him and his commitment, I proposed to Better Lives that Borei be allowed to use a parcel of land under our management.

After careful consideration, Better Lives agreed that Borey could use the land rent-free, in exchange for helping maintain it. Borey embraced this opportunity with humility and diligence. Better Lives partner Peaksneng Thormacheat Garden shop supported him with a temporary shelter, water well, and job cutting grass to prepare compost with the Peaksneng shop team.

Whenever school students have come from England, Borey has proudly stepped forward as our English translator, welcoming them with a smile and sharing his story with them. Today, Borei’s garden flourishes as a vibrant testament to his hard work, perseverance, and unwavering hope. This achievement has allowed him to qualify for a Rent-to-Own house for his family, a stepping stone toward a brighter future. Borei’s gratitude shines in every word: “Thank you so much, BetterLives and Rey”. Yet even as he gives thanks, his dreams continue to grow into dreams of owning a home, nurturing his family, and building a life rooted in hope and possibility.