About Us

Tanya Jaw

I grew up in Trayning and finished high school in Wyalkatchem, coming from the country it has helped me see the world in a different way.

I have achieved many things throughout my life so far and am currently helping to provide a library and accommodation for orphans in Cambodia as part of a Self Expression and Leadership Program.

Growing up and gaining an education in the country doesn’t limit your possibilities. In fact, it enhances them.

Since leaving the Wheatbelt and studying communications at university, I have been a web publisher, assisting WA business development and as an employment co-ordinator for people with disability.

Today I work in the aged care industry, looking at creative ways to stimulate people with dementia, and how the organisation can improve its internal communication.

I have an active interest in people, so in March 2009 I travelled to Cambodia to learn more about the war and its people there. Cambodia is 95 per cent rural. Poverty, disease and landmines are an everyday reality for many if its farmers. My own rural background and sense of community resonated with the Cambodian people.

Although Cambodian farmers have a different set of troubles - land mines rather than drought, I recognised the same level of richness in their communities that I had experienced growing up in the Wheatbelt.

I came upon the Chres Village orphanage and school during a motorbike tour.

Touched by how grateful the children were to visitors and volunteers, I decided to become a registered fundraiser for Sustainable Organisation for Community Peasants, Labourers, Students Development and Orphans. The position was approved by the Ministry of Interior and Siem Reap Governor, Cambodia, on May 23 this year.

In August I approached local schools and libraries around Perth to donate unwanted books to start an English language library at the orphanage, as learning English is a vital part of the children’s education for gaining future employment in retail and tourism.

Many libraries were glad to recycle the books, which are usually discarded, and the State Library donated the rest. A shipping agent and box manufacturer also donated their goods and services, and students from Hamilton High School packed the books for transport.

Tanya Jaw