A little girl named Aom is ‘Teacher Aom’ today.
“Once, I was a sponsored child under the care of World Vision Thailand. Today, I have returned as a giver—to pass on the same hope I once received.” The joyful voice of Siriporn Oddtokan, or ‘Teacher Aom,’ a social studies teacher at Hotpittayakom School in Chiang Mai Province, reflects a life journey that was far from easy, marked by perseverance, determination, and unwavering effort.
Aom grew up in a poor farming family. Her parents had her when they were already in their 40s. “Since I was seven, I started helping out on the farm—harvesting longan and taking on odd jobs to ease the burden on my parents,” Aom recalls, reflecting on a childhood marked by hardship from an early age.
When she was in Grade 3, she began receiving support from the Child Sponsorship Programme by World Vision Foundation Thailand—marking the beginning of a life-changing journey in both her education and living conditions. “The first day I received a new school uniform… I was so happy I could hardly hold back my tears,” she says with heartfelt gratitude.
Although Aom once dreamed of becoming a Chinese-speaking tour guide, she ultimately chose a different path—one shaped by the need for stability and the responsibility of caring for her ageing parents, as she is their only child. She decided to start the journey to be a teacher. “I wanted to be a tour guide, but considering our family’s financial situation and my parents’ age and health, I had to think about who would take care of them. So I chose to become a teacher, to become a civil servant, have a stable career, and access benefits that would help me care for my parents,” she says proudly.
From a shy girl… to a youth leader
“I used to be a child who did not dare to speak, but the youth development activities organised by World Vision Thailand helped me become more expressive, think independently, take on leadership roles, and feel confident interacting with others.”
Not only does World Vision Thailand support education, but it also fosters life skills and youth leadership through a variety of activities. Aom was one of the young people who participated in these programmes. She has applied the experiences gained to her life and her work as a teacher.
In addition, Aom’s family received economic and livelihood support, including assistance in raising catfish and resources for longan farming. These initiatives have helped sustainably improve the quality of life for her family.
From a recipient… to a giver who shines as a beacon of hope
“There was a young girl whose mother was disabled and her father was old. I saw how dedicated she was to her studies, so I decided to support her since she was in Grade 7. Today, she is studying to become a teacher, just like me. I am very proud, because I was once given that same opportunity.“
World Vision does not just provide material things… it also gives opportunity and encouragement.
“I still remember the words from a letter written by ‘Aunt Ar,’ my sponsor. She wrote, ‘I am right here with you.’ That sentence gave me so much strength.”
Those few simple words, deeply etched in her memory, became the driving force that helped Aom persevere through life’s challenges. Her story is living proof that even a small opportunity can lead to a profound transformation. And now that she has the chance to give back, she chooses to pass on that light of hope with all her heart.
“I want to tell Aunt Ar how truly grateful I am for her support back then, because it was a turning point that made my life what it is today,”
Aom says, her voice trembling with emotion, yet filled with pride.
