CAMBODIA GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP PROGRAM
About Us
Greater Social Equality. A More Sustainable Environment. A More Secure World for Everyone.
Challenges Abroad is a social enterprise that provides impactful, customised overseas learning program for students. Our mission is to develop the next generation of Global Citizens, who as future leaders will help shape a better future for everyone.
Through our programs, we ensure that students not only develop a global mindset but gain vital life and employability skills, enabling them to have a positive impact on the world through their future endeavours
We are proud to be a Certified B Corporation!
It reinforces that together, we’re delivering programs that are not only transformative for students, but also beneficial for communities and respectful of the planet
The Challenges Abroad Difference
Student Impact
Developing the next generation of Global Citizens.
Community Impact
Delivering long-term development projects that support local communities.
Enviornmental Impact
We are working on becoming a carbon neutral organisation.
Short-Term Programs, Long-Term Impact.
Our Global Citizenship Program enables students to step out of their comfort zone whilst building their understanding of the wider world, learning about new cultures and fostering meaningful connections with the local community.
Global Citizenship:
Students broaden their perspectives, embrace cultural diversity, and ignite a lifelong drive to make a difference in the world
Cultural Immersion:
Discover, connect & experiencestudents dive into vibrant local cultures, learning through meaningful cross-cultural exchange
Community Engagement:
Lead, inspire & create changestudents deliver hands-on workshops, building skills and leaving a lasting impact on local schools.
Every Challenges Abroad program supports the goals and objectives of our international development charity, theFutureSenseFoundation
Participants on a Challenges Abroad programaretherefore, not only directly impacting the community through their project, but are part of a sustainable community development initiative that will have a long lasting, positive impact.
Cambodia: Land of Wonder
Our programs are based at our Hub in Battambang, in northwestern Cambodia on the Sangkae River The city is known for having some of the best-preserved French Colonial architecture in the country
Since 2013, we have supported a Supplementary Education Centre in Battambang, which provides free education to children from low-income backgrounds Over the years, 700 children have graduated from this program, and we have seen primary school pass rates grow from 20% to 99%!
Days 0-1
Travel & Arrival
Flight duration: 12-15 Hours (1 stop)
Arrival Airport: Siem Reap International Airport
Transfer: 3-4 hours by private bus
Accommodation: Challenges Abroad Hub
Touch down in Cambodia! Welcome to Battambang - a city that feels more like a large country town. After being welcomed at the airport by your group mentor and transferred to your base for the next week, you’ll have time to settle into your accommodation
As the evening sets in, gather for your Welcome Dinner - your first taste of Khmer cuisine and the first moment your team comes together, ready for the journey ahead.
Phnom Penh
Siem Reap
Battambang
Week 1: Community Engagement
Days 2-3
Program Orientation
Accommodation: Challenges Abroad Hub
The name Battambang means “the lost stick”. According to local legend, a powerful king threw a magical stick that landed in the area and brought prosperity to the region!
The first couple of days are all about building confidence, connection and excitement You’ll dive deeper into Khmer culture, learn more about the communities you’ll be working alongside, and start planning as a team for the impactful journey ahead
Days 4-7
Battambang
Accommodation: Challenges Abroad Hub
Spend four immersive days embedded in the local community, supporting local schools by running interactive workshops. With dedicated time to craft your sessions, you’ll step into the classroom feeling ready to contribute in a meaningful way - learning just as much from the community as you share.
Beyond you workshops, soak up Battambang’s laid-back charm and experience culture in the most authentic way - through new friendships and everyday moments that shift perspective By the final day, you’ll see the real difference you ’ ve made and leave with a great sense of achievement.
Potential workshop topics: The goal: inspire creativity, spark curiosity and build aspirations
Battambang > Phnom Penh
Travel Time: 5-6 hours by private bus
Accommodation: Hotel Day 8
Kick back and relax, share stories and reflections with new friends, and soak in Cambodia’s incredible landscape as you travel to the capital city of Phnom Penh! Once you arrive, there will be time to settle in and explore as you get ready for your Cambodia cultural adventure.
Weeks 2-3: Cambodia Cultural Adventure
Days 9-10
Phnom Penh
Accommodation: Hotel or Hostel
Phnom Penh was once called the “Pearl of Asia” – In the 1920s and 30s, French colonists named it this because of its elegant riverside boulevards and grand colonial architecture.
Explore Phnom Penh by traditional cyclo, weaving through vibrant streets and soaking up the energy of the city Visit a local pottery workshop where Khmer ceramics are crafted using techniques passed down through generations. The afternoon brings a more profound experience - a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and Choeung Ek (Killing Fields) offering powerful insight into Cambodia's history and its people.
Days 11-15
Virachey Jungle Trek
Travel: ~5 hours by private bus
Accommodation: Guesthouse and Camping
Continue your journey through Cambodia’s jungle as you step off the beaten track and into an unforgettable four day adventure through Cambodia’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes. Trek through dense rainforest, follow hidden trails, and uncover cascading waterfalls as you immerse yourself in the region’s raw natural beauty Led by experienced local guides, you’ll gain unique insight into the environment, wildlife, and traditional ways of life, all while camping under the stars and disconnecting from the everyday It’s a truly memorable experience that will challenge you, inspire you, and leave you with lasting memories alongside your group.
Day 16
Mondulkiri: Jungle & Waterfalls
Travel: ~2 hours by private bus
Accommodation: Hotel or Hostel
Trade the city for jungle as you journey into Mondulkiri Province’s lush countryside Trek through jungle trails and mountain paths, before emerging at a hidden waterfall and crystal-clear natural pool Enjoy traditional bamboo-cooked soup and BBQ freshly prepared – the perfect reward after an epic day of adventure
The Adventure Continues...
Day 17
Pu Long Village
Accommodation: Homestay
Travel deeper into rural Cambodia to Pu Long Village, a traditional Bunong community surrounded by rolling hills and lush rainforest. Visit a local coffee plantation and explore nearby waterfalls, experiencing a slower pace of life in the countryside That evening, enjoy true cultural immersion with a village homestay - sleeping in hammocks beneath open-air roofs, surrounded by the sounds of village life
Day 18
Koh Trong Island
Travel: ~3 hours by private bus
Accommodation: Local Guest House
Discover a peaceful island located on the Mekong River. The best way to explore is by bicycle - pedal past stilted wooden homes and rice paddies, soaking in rural life. Keep your eyes open along the riverbanks –the river is home to one of the largest freshwater turtles in the world
Day 19
Sambok Mountain & Dolphins
Travel: 1 hour by boat
Accommodation: Local Guest House
Cruise along the Mekong River to Kampi, scanning the water for the rare and endangered Irrawaddy dolphins - one of Cambodia’s most special wildlife encounters. Back on land, climb Sambok Mountain for sweeping views of the vast rural landscape that surrounds you
Day 20
Travel to Siem Reap
Travel Time: ~5 hours by private bus
Accommodation: Hotel or Hostel
Travel to Siem Reap, one of Cambodia’s most popular tourist hotspots. Spend time browsing the famous night markets, where you’ll have the chance to discover handcrafted souvenirs Take some time to rest and recharge - you’ll want to save all your energy for the days ahead!
A Bucket List Moment
Siem Reap & Angkor
Wat
Accommodation: Hotel or Hostel Day 21
Rise before dawn for a sunrise visit to Angkor Wat, one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Experience the temple complex at its most breathtaking as the sun lights up the ancient towers
In the afternoon, explore the vibrant streets of Siem Reap, enjoying local markets and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this lively city
Did You Know?
The Angkor Archaeological Park is home to over 1,000 temples - ancient wonders waiting to be explored, from the world-famous Angkor Wat to hidden ruins tucked into the jungle!
Day 22
Departure
Airport: Siem Reap International Airport Transfer: ~1 hour
The final day and journey home offer time to reflect on the skills you ’ ve developed, the experiences you ’ ve shared, and the perspectives you ’ ve gained, recognising how much you ’ ve grown as Global Citizens.
Students will also contribute to Climate Action initiatives by raising environmental awareness, leading community clean-ups and tree-planting! Our programs are Carbon Neutral, as we work with a certified off-set provider to calculate and neutralise the emissions generated for each student travelling
Global Citizenship Programs
Key Objectives:
Developing the Next Generation of Global Citizens
Providing a structured & reflective experience for students, as they apply their knowledge and skills in a practical, real-world setting.
Short-Term Programs, Long-Term Impact
Working towards achieving the UN Goals for Sustainable Development, supporting the FutureSense Foundation
Mutually Beneficial Programs
Ensuring that there is mutual benefit and learning for the local community and student participants.
of students think that their Global Citizenship journey was a lifechanging experience that has inspired them to experience the world more!
Global Citizen,Nadia
As the name suggests, of course there are challenges, but the problemsolving skills and confidence that come out of the experience are unmatched.
We measure the impact of our programs on student participants by evaluating the following 10 key skill areas:
Students will tackle real-world challenges hand-in-hand with local communities, seeing the direct impact of their contributions.
Students will step into a different world, experiencing new cultures firsthand and building genuine connections that change how they see the world.
Students will strengthen emotional development and self-awareness through reflective and collaborative experiences
Students will push beyond their comfort zone, discovering resilience, confidence, and capabilities.
Students will examine their own perspectives on privilege, equity, and global citizenship, developing empathy and a deeper sense of responsibility.
Students will build authentic skills through daily interactions, learning to communicate & work effectively across cultural differences
“This program pushed me to be uncomfortable which allowed me to overcome my fears of failure. The connections I've made with everyone will last forever and have opened my eyes to the vast world.”
Global Citizen, Rommie
This is a once in a lifetime experience, which is both culturally and educationally enriching. While it does present challenges, you gain skills and make new friends to help you overcome any issues.
Risk Management
We ensure that...
Every program activity has been risk assessed with safety audits conducted and can provide school with information required to complete pre trip processes
We have real-time safety management system with a robust emergency response process
All participants have 24/7 support from our in-country staff
Every participant has arranged a comprehensive travel insurance (mandatory)
We conduct a comprehensive program briefing process to ensure students are well prepared for their program
