Our Aims

SeeBeyondBorders was founded in 2009 in Australia as a not-for-profit social enterprise to help children in Cambodia through improvements to teaching and learning.  Our vision is to empower poor communities by improving the quality of education and access to schools.  We aim to broaden opportunities for children to learn, so that they can access higher standards of living in their future.

SeeBeyondBorders has formed relationships with organisations that are well established in Cambodia with whom we are developing integrated programmes to support: teacher training and teaching resources (Teach the Teachers programme); school infrastructure (Better Schools programme); and the basic economic needs for families including nutrition and healthcare (Getting to School programme).

By joining one of our programmes as a volunteer, we invite those interested, to share and shape our approach, to engage with different communities, and to contribute to change.

Why SeeBeyondBorders?

We are passionate about the model for development that advocates offering to help others help themselves.  We believe the barriers to greater opportunity and choice for those living in poverty are reflected in poor: a) financial liquidity; b) health; and c) education, with there being significant overlap between the three.  We have chosen to focus on education because of our existing connections and because this area allows us to link with a broader community with less intense personal interaction or focus on the individual.  Resources can initially go further.

We consistently cross check what we do against sustainability and dependency.  Sustainability is only achievable where dependency is at a minimum and a clear exit pathway is identified.  However, sustainability is also dependent on mutual respect and dignity.  We therefore encourage a personal engagement from our supporters and our participants, fostering the notion that we have a responsibility towards those who have nothing by comparison to ourselves. 

We value:

  • Generosity of spirit
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  • Dignity and justice
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  • Respect for difference
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  • Openness to any system of beliefs that provides life