Karona and Srey Ya both crossed the stage this term, finishing university degrees they started while still working full shifts at the factory. We closed the center early that day so the whole team could go and cheer.
Both women joined our Education program years ago through evening English classes, before working their way into the University Program's scholarship support. Balancing coursework with a factory schedule meant early mornings, late nights, and more than a few exams studied for on a fifteen-minute break.
A celebration years in the making
Teachers, social workers, and fellow students filled the rows reserved for the center, holding handmade signs and snapping photos throughout the ceremony. For many of the younger students watching, it was the first university graduation they had ever attended.
"I used to think university was only for other people. Now my daughter believes it's for her too."
What's next
Both graduates have said they want to come back and mentor current students in the Education program — a full-circle moment we're looking forward to supporting this year.