Author Archive
Urban Poor: A Peek into a Microcosm of Cambodia
By Shirley Fong, KF12, Angkor Mikroheranhvatho Kampuchea, Cambodia
It’s one of those places you won’t find unless you go looking for it – the slums of Chak Angre Leo. Located in the outer khan (district) of Meanchey in Cambodia’s capital city, the slums are a stark contrast from the familiar communities and gated residences in central Phnom Penh.
Superhuman: The Profile of a Credit Officer
By Shirley Fong, KF12, Angkor Mikroheranhvatho Kampuchea, Cambodia
It’s a bird… it’s a plane… no, it’s an AMK credit officer!
Much like a superhero, credit officers are the understated motor that keeps the loan system running. Their continued daily gruel brings loaned monies to those who need it. After a day in the field, I am worn down to the fibers of my soul from the long hours of heat exhaustion, heavy rain (during Cambodia’s monsoon season), and navigating a loud, clunky motorcycle on unpaved roads mapless. But I realize I have no reason to complain – credit officers do this every day!
Basking in (Morning) Glory
By Shirley Fong, KF12, Angkor Mikroheranhvatho Kampuchea, Cambodia
I’ve made it through my first week here in Cambodia, and so far it has been amazing! I still get the occasional, “Why are you doing this?” question from curious friends and family back at home, and my answer to them is “Why not?”
