GVI’s community hub is based in northwestern Cambodia, in Siem Reap which is the capital city of Siem Reap Province. It is a well-frequented destination for both foreigners and locals as there are many things to do in Siem Reap. It is a gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. In Siem Reap volunteers will find many opportunities to immerse themselves in Cambodia’s captivating cultural history, iconic temples and monuments while helping us to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.Â
Our hub is located in a guesthouse in Siem Reap’s city centre, a 5-minute walk from Old Market and Pub Street – a vibrant hub of nightlife with restaurants, bars and shops. In Siem Reap, volunteers can choose to assist teaching centres with child development, teach English to Buddhist monks or support women’s empowerment organisations, all of which help to increase opportunities within the community. In the past two decades, local NGOs have made a huge difference in uplifting their communities, and as an organisation, we work to support these NGOs in order to make their objectives a reality. By having strong partnerships we can use our skills and provide sustainable programmes that are community-driven. Our vision is for community members, staff and volunteers to unite and create continually improving partnerships in order to make a difference within Siem Reap on a daily basis.
In Siem Reap, we also offer a range of career-boosting internships, professional apprenticeships and research fellowships, with a focus on education, community development, and the promotion of gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Participants can see all the wonders that Cambodia has to offer by spending their evenings and weekends visiting national parks, the floating market, waterfalls, taking part in cooking or pottery classes, and seeing what’s on offer in the bustling markets. Getting around the city is easy, with tuk-tuks, buses and taxis readily available. There is even the option to rent bicycles and make your way around the city and surrounding areas on bike. Participants can also travel away from Siem Reap to Tonle Sap Lake, Phnom Penh, Kampong Khleang, Battambang, or Banteay Srei and see a different side to Cambodia.