The photographs from Pursat, Cambodia, showcase the remarkable strength and resilience of local women, with many benefiting from support provided by HOPE International Development Agency. They reveal how these women navigate daily challenges with determination and resourcefulness. From contributing to their communities through hard work and innovative projects to managing the demands of family life and economic activities, their stories are a testament to their unwavering spirit.
Images highlight their roles in transforming their own lives and their communities, whether through education, entrepreneurial efforts, or dedication to family and faith. The photographs capture both the rewards and hardships they face, emphasizing their pivotal role in driving positive change and overcoming adversity.
Phealy “Ly” Kim, head of HOPE International Development Agency, visiting a rural primary school in Pursat, Cambodia.
Phealy “Ly” Kim tours a rural primary school constructed by HOPE International Development Agency in Pursat, the poorest province in Cambodia.
November 20, 2013.
Woman and child on a motorcycle, Pursat, Cambodia.
A woman rides a motorcycle with her young son along a dirt road in Pursat. Motorcycles are the most prevalent form of private transportation in Cambodia.
November 20, 2013.
Bedroom of a well-to-do family in Pursat, Cambodia.
The bedroom of a family in Pursat, who received a well and a series of micro-loans from HOPE International Development Agency about a decade ago. With their improved resources, they now own a large farm and are considering further expansion.
November 21, 2013.
Young girl playing with a plastic water bottle, Phnom Kravanh district, Pursat, Cambodia.
A little girl plays with a plastic water bottle, a highly valued item in rural households of Phnom Kravanh district. These bottles are commonly used as containers for various liquids in everyday life.
November 22, 2013.
Schoolgirls playing a game at recess, Pursat province, Cambodia.
A group of schoolgirls enjoy recess at a rural elementary school built with the support of HOPE International Development Agency. The game involves jumping over a rubber band stretched progressively higher by the opposing team. The team that can jump the highest wins.
November 21, 2013.
Women making rice noodles for sale, Phnom Kravanh district, Pursat, Cambodia.
Women prepare rice noodles for sale at the local market. This thriving business is supported by micro-financing programs from HOPE International Development Agency, which has helped boost local economic activities in Phnom Kravanh district.
November 20, 2013.
A young girl running to school, Pursat province, Cambodia.
A little girl hurries back to school after recess in Pursat province.
November 20, 2013.
Women working alongside men in a dry-season rice field, Pursat province, Cambodia.
Women and men collaborate in a dry-season rice field project supported by HOPE International Development Agency. This innovative technique has the potential to triple rice yields, helping to break the cycle of famine and poverty in Cambodia.
November 22, 2013.
Butcher’s counter at a busy market, Pursat, Cambodia.
A woman at the butcher’s counter is sound asleep amidst the hustle and bustle of the town market.
November 23, 2013.
Pheaktra of HOPE International Development Agency, Pursat, Cambodia.
Pheaktra, from the Cambodian branch of HOPE International Development Agency, mounts her motorcycle, ready to visit her next development project in Pursat province. Her role is crucial in advancing the agency's initiatives in the area.
November 28, 2013.
Garment factory workers heading to work, Cambodia.
Young women, ages 16-18, are transported in trucks to garment factories on the road to Phnom Penh. Cambodian garment factories are known for their harsh working conditions and low wages.
November 27, 2013.
Women returning home from the fields, Pursat, Cambodia.
Women ride home in a cart after working in the fields. Compact discs are commonly used as makeshift reflectors on carts pulled by mechanical plows to enhance visibility at night.
November 22, 2013.
Barang, a girl with light skin and wavy hair, playing on her family farm, Pursat, Cambodia.
Barang, whose name means "foreigner" in Khmer, enjoys her time playing in the back of her family farm. Her unusually light skin and wavy hair distinguish her in the village.
November 23, 2013.
A woman at the largest Buddhist temple in Pursat, Cambodia.
Despite being practically blind, this woman remains full of cheer. She is one of many who live in the temple, dedicating their lives to caring for the monks.
November 30, 2013.