NAYLAND COLLEGE
Cambodia - september 2025
Celestielle Charitable Trust is proud to stand behind another journey of growth for four students and two mentors from Nayland College. Rooted in values of respect, determination, and kindness, the school empowers its young people to reach beyond the classroom. In September 2025, the group embarked on a journey to Cambodia, where engaged in cultural exchange, learning, and experiences that will stay with them for years to come.
For these students, the journey was more than travel - it was a step into unfamiliar territory, both literally and personally. For some, marked their first flight, their first time beyond New Zealand’s shores, and their first encounter with a culture entirely new to them. Guided by courage and curiosity, they stepped forward ready to learn, to connect, and to be changed by the experience.
In the lead-up to Cambodia, the group dedicated time and energy to raising funds and awareness for the communities they met. Their efforts reflected generosity, responsibility, and the beginnings of leadership, showing that their impact extends well beyond the borders of this trip.
What unfolded here is a powerful picture of youth in motion - resilient, committed, and open to growth. These students were not simply travelling; they stepped into a chapter of their lives that will shape who they become and the difference they choose to make in the world.
Fundraising
student Testimonials
This experience has been life changing, and I will remember it throughout my daily life back home as it has had such an impact on me. What inspired me most about this trip is the people we met. Our time in Siem Reap was a general trip highlight, but it was also so meaningful to me due to the level of connection we had. It was so special meeting all these amazing people, including our guides and the workers and kids at REACH, where there was so much positivity and hospitality.
Something I noticed about Cambodia is the resilience, positivity, and sense of community, which we got to experience first-hand with REACH.
This trip was challenging but so rewarding. It was nourishing and surreal. It was beautiful and confronting. It was important. For me as an individual, but also as a person gaining awareness of Cambodia’s culture and history. I am so thankful and proud that I was a part of this experience, and I will remember it always.
Ben
Going on this trip to Cambodia and Singapore was honestly one of the most amazing experiences of my life. What inspired me the most was seeing how strong and happy the people were despite everything they’ve been through. Like when we drove through Siem Reap and saw the damage from flooding - yet the kids were still swimming and playing in the puddles nature had made. It really showed me how resilient people can be, and that happiness isn’t about having everything perfect, but appreciating what you have.
Another highlight was visiting the elephant sanctuary. Feeding the elephants and watching them roam was incredible. And even though some things were tough to see, like visiting the memorial sites that showed Cambodia’s tragic history, it reminded me how important it is to remember and learn from the past.
This experience reminded me that even though we all come from different places, we share so much more than we think - and that’s pretty awesome.
Phoebe
Cambodia is such a beautiful country with fascinating history backing it, whether that's the temples hidden in the jungle or the busy markets around Siem Reap.
I've taken a lot back with me to New Zealand, not possessions but ideas and gratitude. To say I feel privileged is an understatement, as seeing the conditions people have to live in daily makes me greatly appreciate the support and warmth I have back home, and can only wish the same for everyone else.
Meeting the children at Reach was daunting at first as we had been informed their schools and homes had all flooded, so we were expecting a lot of sadness throughout the 2 days. But this expectation fell flat as they were radiating with sunshine and energy, despite everything going on in their country. It was so inspiring to me that they could stay so positive, so I commend their bravery and strength.
Oliver
What I would say inspired me most about the trip was the awareness of the Cambodian community. Cambodia lacks a lot of resources that many countries have and neglect to use because of their lack of awareness. Cambodia does not have the privilege of millions of dollars, strong international trade and relationships, etc, but it is still very aware of the importance of protecting Khmer culture and its people. This inspired me greatly because I have always firmly believed ignorance is one of the biggest obstacles to development in society and this cemented my belief that once awareness and understanding occurs, great steps forward can be made.
Celestielle filled a gap my family hasn’t had the privilege to give me, with an experience that provides growth and experience I think every young adult deserves as they develop and work on who they want to become as an adult. Going to Cambodia and Singapore was an essential part of what I needed to truly realize what I want for my future and myself.
Shayla
