Science of Life Studies 24/7- GDI

Cambodia

November 2011

Newsletter

The latest update from our SOLS 24/7-GDI Cambodia team.

In this latest installment, read about:

1) The SOLS 24/7 Anniversary celebration (see more pictures here: SOLS 24/7-GDI Facebook Album

2) COPION Volunteers Camp

3) Province Managers Monthly Meeting

4) SOLS Training Centers expansion via the COPION project

5) New International Intern- France

6) Graduation Ceremony in the news post!

January 2012 Newsletter- Page 1

January 2012 Newsletter- Page 2

January 2012 Newsletter- Page 3

To download your own personal copy of the newsletter click on this link: SOLS 24/7- GDI January 2012 Newsletter

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SOLS 24/7 discusses English education programs in Malaysia with former Malaysian Prime Minister, YAB Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and Tan Sri Vincent Tan.

5 Feb 2012, KUALA LUMPUR: The solution to improving the English proficiency of Malaysians has to be addressed from multiple approaches in order to reach the people.

This was just one of the issues discussed by Science of Life Studies 24/7 (SOLS 24/7) Directors Madenjit Singh, Raj Ridvan Singh and Dhinu Dhanveer Singh during their meeting with former Malaysian Prime Minister YAB Tun Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad and Berjaya Corporation Berhad Chairman, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Vincent Tan.

Presenting the SOLS 24/7 training programs and methodology to Tun Dr. Mahathir

During the hour and a half meeting, SOLS 24/7 Directors presented some of the training methodology and programs crafted from 27 years of research.

Tun Mahathir was impressed with the research and technology of the new English training program presented and mentioned that he would look into giving SOLS 24/7 a pilot in a private university he has influence in. He also suggested that SOLS 24/7 open a training centre in Kedah, for which he would place students.

Tan Sri Vincent, who organized the meeting, is a passionate advocate of English language education in Malaysia. His genuine desire to see Malaysians and the nation benefit from an effective English program extends to introducing it to the formal education system.

Tan Sri Vincent’s keen interest in promoting English proficiency in the country is evident through his involvement in theSun daily newspaper, which is provided free in the Klang Valley.

Through his support, SOLS 24/7 is currently in talks with theSun newspaper to create a comprehensive system of English training through a pull-out teaching format.

However, Tun Mahathir cautioned about the challenges that were sure to lie in the path to bringing the SOLS 24/7 programs to the formal education system.

Despite the challenges he mentioned, Tun Mahathir promised to give his support for the SOLS 24/7 English training program and consented to officiate and launch an event in relations to SOLS 24/7 English programs.

Reflecting after the meeting, SOLS 24/7 Chief founder, Madenjit Singh (Big Teacher) said he was tremendously empowered by the discussion.

“We are truly grateful to have the blessings and support of both Tun Mahathir and Tan Sri Vincent,” he said.

“Through their guidance, and by helping connect us to the appropriate people, we hope to get the opportunity to launch a pilot program to teach and prove the effectiveness of our English programs,” he continued.

Group picture

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Tim Spijker shares why SOLS 24/7 is the BEST learning school for young Social Entrepreneurs.

Hello world! I am Tim Spijker (25) from The Netherlands and I am in SOLS 24/7 because I want to make a difference in this world. Inspired by SOLS 24/7 during an earlier period as a volunteer (2009), I took the decision to come back (2011) to learn how to become a social entrepreneur. My goal is to start my own social projects in the future.

I have been in SOLS 24/7 for about 10 months divided over two periods. During this period I have been volunteering in Malaysia and Cambodia. I spent by far my longest time in Malaysia, a country which I feel in love with.

During my first period as a volunteer I was involved in the teaching department (English, Math, Sales & Marketing), initiated a fundraising project in my own network (to buy new furniture), and even in recruitment (promote internship program for students to universities).

Managing classes & monitoring student progress - Cambodia

I had a wonderful time as a volunteer. I really enjoyed teaching and mixing around with the students. To see the students progressing is a wonderful thing to see and gives a lot of fulfillment.

After working for a corporate in my home country for more than a year, I decided to give a completely different twist to my life. I applied to join the SOLS 24/7 International Program. Joining the SOLS 24/7 International Program is not a usual step that people take, especially not for a Masters graduate. Instead of working for a big multinational, earning a lot of money, living in a big house, and driving a nice sports car, I am currently in almost the opposite position. I am working in developing countries without any salary,  share a dorm with seven boys, and I had to give a lot of compromises to my privacy, luxury and comforts.

Am I insane? Maybe some would say yes, but I don’t think so. My goals are very ambitious and challenging and the road I am travelling is full of excitement and adventure.

The reason for joining the SOLS 24/7 International Program is because I strongly believe that SOLS 24/7 is the best learning school for young social entrepreneurs who want to learn all the ins and outs of this profession.

Discussing ongoing projects with Malaysian colleague

The International Program is customized to the student’s own interest and passion and has a very practical focus. For example, I am currently managing several projects in SOLS 24/7 Malaysia and I learn a lot by just doing it. As a Masters graduate it is interesting to compare this method of training in SOLS 24/7 with the approach of education by universities. Universities seem to be too much theory-driven and many professors think they can solve social problems by doing research in an ivory tower. SOLS 24/7 is very practical and operates on a grassroots level but at the same time we are all striving to be scientific in our actions.

To become a changemaker is not easy. It requires tremendous amount of effort, hard work, reflection, improvement of weaknesses and the development of new skills.

Teaching in Laos

A social entrepreneur needs to have the skills to initiate and manage projects; be a leader/example; guide and inspire youth; deal with partners, donors, and governments; generate income to make the projects self-sustainable, and much more.

By being put in many situations and having a lot of different responsibilities I am working on the development of these skills and get a lot of valuable experiences. I have the unique privilege to learn from two of the best teachers I could ever wish for: Big Teacher and Teacher Raj. With their mentoring, guidance and feedback, combined with my own efforts, I am in the process of becoming a more dynamic, bold, responsible, patient, flexible, humble, loving, caring and wiser human being.

 

 

 

Quick Questions:

1) SOLS 24/7: What is your definition of a  ’changemaker’?

Tim & Frank (extreme right) after fundraising and purchasing beds for Malaysian students.

Tim: I would define a changemaker as someone who addresses social problems and comes up with innovative and practical solutions with the goal to make a positive change in this world. There is a lot of suffering going on and each country – whether it is rich or poor – has its own social problems. Many people are aware of these problems and complain about it, but most just neglect it and live their life onward. Only a few unique persons with a great heart for humanity are attacking these problems by looking for solutions. These people are the real heroes in this world, the changemakers.

2) SOLS 24/7: What made you change your perception of life from the ‘rat race’ to social entrepreneurship?

Tim: My perspective on life changed drastically after my first period as a volunteer in SOLS 24/7. By working with students from a poor background, from broken families or with other disadvantages and by living under different

conditions, I realized that I am in a very favorable position compared to the vast majority in the world. I am young, high-educated, come from a wonderful family, had a fantastic youth, and was born in one of the most wealthiest countries in the world (Netherlands). I have all the tools to do GREAT things for humanity and to give something back to the world. I’m not interested to be part of the ‘rat race’. To be a successful businessperson and have a lot of money is one thing. To be a great human being who makes a difference in the lives of others is another thing, which brings much more fulfillment, happiness and meaning than any currency does.

3) SOLS 24/7: To learn is to change, and sometimes change can be difficult. What has been your biggest learning curve so far?

Tim: I wouldn’t say it is my biggest learning curve but one of my most recent ones is that I’m learning more about leadership and how to become a great leader. I wouldn’t consider myself as a natural born leader in terms of boldness and dynamism and therefore I’m working hard to become stronger in these areas. I am managing several projects which requires leadership and help me to develop these qualities.

4) SOLS 24/7:  What advice would you give someone who wanted to join the SOLS 24/7 International Program?

Dressing up for Deepavali in Malaysia!

Tim: The SOLS 24/7 International Program is a great program for young people who want to make a difference in the world and are willing to invest a lot of time and effort into this. This latter part should not be underestimated. To be outstanding and to make an impact is far from easy. Before changing the lives of others you have to invest in yourself. Upgrade your current skills, develop new skills, and being put in many different situations to gain a lot of field experience. If you don´t have a 9-5 attitude, are willing to put a tremendous amount of effort in your work and development and want to make a change, the SOLS 24/7 International Program is the best place to learn.

5) SOLS 24/7: Tell us what has been favourite moment in SOLS 24/7?

Tim: It is hardly possible for me to pick one specific favourite moment out of so many wonderful experiences. From having great in-depth discussions with the Founders to playing futsal with the students, and from eating raw chillies during a chilli contest to making myself ridiculous imitating a Bollywood dance. There are too many things to mention. However, all my favourite moments come back to one key element: the great love and unity among the team members, volunteers and students in SOLS 24/7.

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Education, Computers, Personal Development.

About 39, 462 Burmese refugees call Malaysia ‘home’ as of December, 2011. However, due to their refugee status many can’t access proper education and are forced to accept jobs with no securities and no rights.

UNHCR and SOLS 24/7 are offering Burmese refugees an opportunity to receive training that could change their lives:

A FREE and comprehensive training program, educating Burmese youth in academics and life skills.

Do you know Burmese organizations or know/ seen people who could benefit from this initiative? One small gesture of sharing could change their life!

We are seeking people like you to reach out to the ‘invisible’ people in our society. Make a pledge and share this information… if only with one person!

Click here for the PDF of SOLS 24/7′s ‘My Training Centre’ Brochure: UNHCR SOLS ‘My Training Centre’ Brochure

For more details, contact Project Manager, Jessy Francis: +6019- 6898442

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With a busy year behind them in 2011, the Cambodia team rounds up some news bytes and gives us a preview of projects and activities set to take off this year!

SOLS 24/7- GDI Cambodia December 2011 Newsletter

December 2011 Newsletter- Page 1

December 2011 Newsletter- Page 2

December 2011 Newsletter- Page 3

To download your own personal copy of the newsletter click on this link: SOLS 24/7- GDI December 2011 Newsletter
 
 
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Insiders Story: “I learnt more in the past 4 months than in Uni!”

Juan Antuna Ros shares his experience as a volunteer with SOLS 24/7 Malaysia.

I have been on the Business Management & Administration Internship program in Malaysia for just under 4 months and will be here for an additional 8 months. In this time I’ve learnt more about managing a business than in my entire time at university and I’ve had the opportunity to attend meetings and presentations with some of the biggest players in Malaysian business.

The extensive variety of tasks that are spread across a small management team has meant that straight from the word go I’ve been given a lot of responsibility and important work to carry out. I’ve worked with other NGOs in the past where you are usually assigned to only one or two projects for your entire duration. But with SOLS 24/7 there is just so much to do and be involved with that I’ve had the chance to work on many different projects.

Discussing strategies with colleague Tim, from Netherlands.

I have assisted thoroughly in setting up SOLS Smart, the business arm of SOLS 24/7 where 80% of profits will be channelled into the NGO to fund future projects. This has given me the opportunity to discuss marketing strategy with experts in the field, create a brochure with designers, set up a website and design a program and presentation targeting senior managers. I’ve obtained a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to set-up a business, and the experience to be a part of the process is something I won’t forget.

Funding is the bloodline of most NGOs but applying for it is not as simple as just asking. I’ve learnt firsthand and in great detail about proposal writing and how to approach potential donors. These activities have lead to a partnership with Berjaya Cares Foundation that will be funding a huge project for 2012. I will be going to Malaysian Borneo to set-up a training centre for underprivileged youths from rural and urban areas. It is extremely exciting to be able to be a part of a project like this and see it develop from the ground up.

As well as my duties as a Business Management & Administration Intern I’ve been given the chance to dedicate some of my time to the Education side of SOLS 24/7. Teaching basic Maths everyday for 1 hour has been a lot of fun and given me the chance to get to know and interact with some of the students who are benefitting from the programs. A strong part of my involvement with Education concerns researching and developing a new compact maths program that will teach all the mathematical skills that are essential in life.

All in all, the SOLS 24/7 team are an inspirational and tremendously passionate group of people with solid moral principles. Their tireless determination and hard work ethic is both astounding and infectious. Few organizations in the world have such sincere and ambitious goals and even fewer organizations actually achieve them on a regular basis. The kind of monitoring and attention to personal development I get from my supervisors is extremely encouraging and their relentless support makes me feel very comfortable about working here. I definitely get the impression that I am highly valued and needed by the organization and that my work will have a lasting impact on many people’s lives. This alone motivates me more than a high salary or bonus. This is a concept that I studied previously in Organizational Psychology during university, but have now come to realize first hand.

Quick Questions:

1) SOLS 24/7: You have a history of loving to do volunteer work and working with grassroot projects. What started your interest?

Juan:  There are many people that accept this world for what it is and are able to  find happiness amidst the suffering of others, through various distractions, comforts and material possessions. And there are the lone few that stand out like a sore thumb, they will never be satisfied until suffering and tyranny is brought to an end and are fighting everyday for a better future. I started volunteering when I realised that I wasn’t a sheep anymore and had to try and do something meaningful with my life.

2) SOLS 24/7:  To complete your internship for your university, why did you choose to work with a non profit, and not in the usual corporate environment?

Juan:  I didn’t get the hype of applying to big companies just to pimp out my CV or show off to my friends and family about how big and reputable my employer is. At the end of the day, most of those people are sitting around making photocopies and coffee. The kind of work you do in an NGO is usually very diverse, dynamic and interesting. You are able to work in different areas and interact with a lot of different people from different cultural backgrounds. It strongly develops your initiative and self-determination as you are working because you want to, not because you have to, and its really up to you how much you want to contribute.

3) SOLS 24/7:  Could you give a brief outline of your previous volunteer work – in Tanzania, etc?

With his football team in Tanzania.

Juan: I began doing voluntary work in Tanzania for a local NGO called ‘Art in Tanzania’. They hooked me up with a role as a football coach in Kwetu High School. We played a few friendly matches with neighbouring schools and the attention we got from the children and the general public was incredible. This gave me the idea to create a football competition but on a much larger scale! The director of the NGO shared my vision so I was appointed sports project manager. I was to plan and coordinate a football tournament for secondary schoolsI planned and co-ordinated their first football tournament for local secondary schools aiming to promote ‘Art in Tanzania’ and HIV Awareness. I also managed a team of volunteers and medical interns to work as coaches, referees and medics on match days.

Other than sports I also taught Adult English Advanced Classes and initiated a class plan and study programs for local Tanzanians of all ages who had very low understanding of the English language. I took students out of the class for individual speaking practice and reading exercises. This greatly improved my cultural understanding and approach to working in Africa.

Juan believes in empowering others through education.

4) SOLS 24/7:Lastly, when a student wants to do an internship, what criteria or points should they take into consideration when choosing an organization to work for?

Juan:

Do you want to ENJOY what you are doing.

Do you want to LEARN while you are doing it.

Do you want to EXPERIENCE something deeply rewarding.

Do you want to CHANGE people’s lives.

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THAILAND VISIT.

Group picture - Thai & SOLS 24/7 team

SOLS 24/7 had the great honour and privilege to visit the Mechai Pattana Bamboo School in Buri Ram province, Northeast Thailand.

The idea was sparked after Teacher Raj met Khun Mechai Viravaidya in Kuala Lumpur. During their first meeting, they discussed about a possible collaboration. With both parties enthusiastic about future plans, a second meeting was arranged. Khun Mechai invited SOLS 24/7 to visit his Bamboo School in Buri Ram and his Birds and Bees Resort, Pattaya.

After a successful second meeting, and more detailed discussion about the program implementation with Khun Mechai and Dr. Werasit, an agreement was made for SOLS 24/7 to provide teachers training for teachers of the Bamboo School + public school teachers. The training includes English, Computing & Science of Life.

Training will begin on February 13, 2012 and the total duration of this first phase will be three months.

This collaboration has the potential to be a win-win situation for both parties as the Bamboo School will get the best training program, while SOLS 24/7 can learn from the innovative agricultural techniques and step-by-step will be able to establish a presence in Thailand.

Mechai Pattana Bamboo School, Buri Ram
Date of Arrival: 24 December, 2011

The dynamic & visionary, social entrepreneur: Khun Mechai Viravaidya. Founder of the Population & Community Development Association (PDA- Thailand's largest NGO). Also owner of the Birds and Bees resort. Opened the Mechai Pattana Bamboo School in Buri Ram.	The Bamboo School provides education to rural students, to develop the 'complete individual'. They are trained in educational, agricultural & business skills. Wonderful facilities and very beautiful.
Beautiful surroundings in the school complex. Students study in an eco-friendly environment with emphasis on environmental consciousness.	Gates with meaning: 'Buffalo' shaped exit which indicates ignorance. The 'Dragon' shaped entrance in the background indicates knowledge.
The school main hall, made up almost entirely of bamboo with only a minimum amount of steel being used. The buildings are how the Bamboo school got its name	Lush green environment in the school grounds. Students study for free and 'pay' the school through 400 of community service & planting 400 trees.

Oyster mushroom demonstration. The Bamboo school offers agricultural demonstrations to villagers to teach them new, innovative techniques. This enables them to utilize their land to the fullest.	Talk about innovative agriculture! How to utilize every possible resource to generate profit and to promote a sustainable, recycling environment.
T.Raj presenting science behind SOLS training programs to Khun Mechai & Bamboo School board. Agreement was made for SOLS 24/7 to provide teachers training: English, Computing, Science of Life	Visiting the Village Development Partnerships (VDP) project in one of Buri Ram province's rural villages. VDP projects help to eradicate poverty through business, funding & education.
VDP microcredit funding: Villagers with a solid business plan can apply for a loan. VDP empowers villagers to improve quality of life.	Other than agriculture, villagers also produce 'village-made' products & sell these in the markets.

Birds and Bees Resort, Pattaya
Dates of visit: 27-28 December, 2011

The Birds and Bees Resort is a social enterprise, the profits of which are primarily allocated towards the Bamboo School so free education can be continued to the poor.

SOLS 24/7 were given a presentation and guided tour through the Birds and Bees agricultural projects. Various agricultural techniques were explained in more detail. It was inspiring to see the innovative and creative ways used to maximize productivity while still respecting and maintaining a healthy environment.

The famous 'Cabbages and Condoms' restaurant at the Birds and Bees Resort. Instead of mints, patrons get a condom with the receipt at the end of a meal.	Birds and Bees Resort General Manager giving a presentation about their agricultural projects.
Explanation of how the optimal utilization of one rai (1,600 sq meters) of land.	Beautiful view of the beach from the Cabbages and Condoms Restaurant.
A biodiesel demonstration.	Lime trees- Vegetable and Fruit Orchard tour
Cement pots with vegetables planted inside.	'Mozart Chicken', a project where classical music is played in the chicken coop to maintain a relaxing environment & to avoid the chicken's getting stressed with outside noise= more eggs!

Read the full report here: SOLS 24/7 Thailand Report – December 2011

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To share their feelings with the rest of the SOLS 24/7 team, they wrote a letter, and have kindly allowed us to reproduce it here!

The SOLS Laos team consists of husband-wife team, Adam and Sachi Taylor.

They are joined by SOLS 24/7-GDI Cambodia interns who have shown discipline and interest in continuing their studies on a higher level.

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Keen interest sparked to work together to empower the Malaysian youth!

Kuala Lumpur, 10 January 2012

It was a special day as SOLS 24/7 had the great honour to welcome  Berjaya Corporation Founder and Chairman, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Vincent Tan, CEO Dato’ Robin Tan and the Berjaya Cares Foundation team to the Youth Development Center earlier today.

Tan Sri Vincent Tan has a passion for education and empowering underprivileged communities in Malaysia through English literacy and various other outreach programs.

SOLS 24/7 had approached the Berjaya Cares Foundation with a proposal to open a college for underprivileged youth in Sabah, providing educational programs and holistic life-skills training. The visit was a way for Tan Sri Vincent Tan to get to know the SOLS 24/7 programs and team first hand.

After arriving at 12.30pm, the Berjaya Cares Foundation team settled down to hear a brief overview of SOLS 24/7 and watch a video about the project.

Next, Teacher Raj Ridvan Singh gave a more detailed presentation about the organization history, current operations, challenges in Malaysia and in particular Sabah. He then explained how SOLS 24/7 was looking to providing solutions to tackle these socio-economic problems.

“After visiting Sabah in 2011, my eyes were opened to the untapped potential of so many youth in those areas,”  Teacher Raj said.

“We are excited at expanding our training programs and reaching youth from Sabah and Sarawak”.

The visitors then visited the classrooms where they saw ongoing classes and took a tour of the training center’s facilities.

Lunch time! The students filed into the lounge where they were greeted with the aroma of delicious Kenny Rogers Roasters chicken, desserts and Krispy Kreme donuts- kindly sponsored by Tan Sri Vincent Tan and the Berjaya Cares Foundation. Kenny Rogers Roasters restaurant franchise and Krispy Kreme is owned by the Berjaya Corporation.

Tan Sri Vincent speaking with SOLS junior trainee

This was a treat for the students as many of them had never eaten Kenny Rogers chicken or tasted the famous Krispy Kreme donuts before. With happy grins, the students settled down to break bread and mingle with the Berjaya Cares Foundation team. It was a great experience for the students to talk to the bosses and managers of the Berjaya Cares Foundation. Some of them received business cards and are already dreaming about pursuing a career with the Berjaya Corporation.

Speaking to the SOLS 24/7 team, Tan Sri Vincent Tan and Dato’ Robin Tan said they were very impressed by the school, and the simplicity and effectiveness of the training program.

Humble & Inspiring: Tan Sri Vincent talking with student

They enjoyed talking and listening to the student’s stories and experiences. The students spoke from their hearts and were able to converse confidently with the visitors.

Before they left, Tan Sri Vincent Tan and Dato’ Robin distributed ang pow for the students, it was truly a festive end to the visit!

Tan Sri Vincent Tan said he was excited to have found an organization who he could partner with and do great things for the Malaysian population.

The best news was that Tan Sri Vincent Tan indicated his interest in supporting SOLS 24/7 projects.

The start of 2012 has been an amazing for SOLS 24/7. Coincidentally, Tan Sri Vincent Tan and the Berjaya Care Foundation’s visit was on the same day as SOLS 24/7′s 12th birthday.

We could not wish for a better birthday present. Thank you Berjaya Cares Foundation!

Tan Sri Vincent, Dato' Robin & T.Raj listening to trainees experiences

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Hello supporters, friends and fans!

A quick heads up on the latest page we have on SOLS 24/7: Multimedia – Videos.

Here you can easily and quickly check out our latest videos while staying on the SOLS 24/7 webpage.

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