A lot of you back home have asked me plenty of questions about what it’s like to be out in the field. Well, watch this for a darn good sanpshot.
This short episode from a documentary series focusing on Australians in the developing world focuses on Aaron, my good mate here in Cambodia. Don’t let his mild manner fool you in this video. The man is an animal (in a good way) and very passionate about his work.
While I have been fortunate to travel with the Friends outreach teams on a number of occasions, Aaron spent a year based in Sisophon, Banteay Meanchey Province near the Thailand border.
It’s a very long way from Phnom Penh. Think of it like being in the field every day.
In Sisophon Aaron worked with the NGO Women Organization for Modern Economy and Nursing (WOMEN) as a Technical Advisor supporting programs in HIV/AIDS prevention and care; child rights and protection; and climate change adaptation. This role was originally part of his AYAD assignment, long before I was accepted into the program.
Aaron has immersed himself in the local culture which helps him enormously with his role. He speaks fluent Khmer and has just recently landed a UN Volunteer position with the UN Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) helping to implement the Community Based Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.
Aaron is a fantastic bloke who I’m extremely proud of.
And to top things off, I was forwarded this article yesterday which gives a good insight into the challenges and rewards of living an expat life in a developing country.
10 Important Life Lessons You Learn From Living Aboard.
Worth the quick read.
