Meet a Student

Geraldine Cox, Liz Volpe with Saran, Winner Dare to Dream 2019

Saran, winner 2016 & 2019

My name is Saran, and I am a student who has never missed a single Dare to Dream workshop. Dare to Dream Cambodia has had a profound impact on my life in countless ways.

It all started in 2015 when Liz , the founder of Dare to Dream Cambodia brought a group of entrepreneurs to Sunrise Cambodia, the place I grew up. I’ll never forget that moment. That experience left an unforgettable mark on me. The workshop taught me invaluable lessons on confidence, bravery, self-awareness, and how to identify my goals and passions. 

What stood out to me the most was learning how to run a business – something I’d never been taught in school before. The workshops were interactive and fun with plenty of role-plays and activities that made learning feel less like a class and more like an adventure. Additionally there were prizes and rewards for those who did their best, which pushed me to work even harder. Since I joined, I’ve definitely noticed a shift in my mindset being more positive , creative and thinking outside the box. I’ve learned that if you believe in yourself, be hopeful and never give up on yourself anything is possible. 

In 2016, I was beyond thrilled to win the Apprentice Challenge, which blessed me the opportunity to visit Australia for three weeks. I couldn’t believe it – I was seeing a whole new world outside my home country.

But the year 2019 really stuck with me. It was my fifth year with Dare to Dream, and that’s when I received a scholarship to study in Melbourne, Australia. I still wake up most days and feel like I’m dreaming.

I am now a graduate in Business, Leadership, and Management  at Insight Academy and am working full-time at one of the biggest universities in Victoria, Australia.

None of this would have been possible without Dare to Dream Cambodia. I’m so thankful for everything I’ve learned, the opportunities I’ve received, and for Liz, who created this incredible program to help kids like myself in Cambodia.