The Boy Who Stayed: Captain’s Rise Through Compassion and Courage

At Hands Across the Water, we believe that no child should be left behind. We believe in wrapping young people with support, love, and the tools to build a life filled with purpose and dignity. Captain’s story reminds us just how powerful that belief can be.

Captain was just a baby when his life took an unexpected turn. With his family facing difficult circumstances, those around him did what they could to ensure his safety and well-being. Eventually, he was brought to Baan Than Namchai where he could be cared for and would be embraced as part of a family.

In those early days, the team at BTN sought to understand more about Captain’s background and secure the documentation he would need for the future. It took time, but what became clear was that his path moving forward would be best supported by the foundation. His care was entrusted to those who had already been lovingly guiding him through his earliest years.

What followed was not just stability but a childhood grounded in love, belonging, and the freedom to dream. Captain found more than a home. He found a future.

Now 12 years old, Captain doesn’t remember those early days. What he does remember is growing up surrounded by kindness. “I’ve been here for as long as I can remember,” he says. “Maybe I cried. Maybe I smiled. But what I know is, from the very start, I became part of something special. I found a family.”

It’s a family made not of blood, but of shared experiences. The staff, the other children, the riders who visit and wave and cheer—all of them have shaped Captain’s world. He’s now in the 2nd grade of secondary school, thriving in Thai language and art classes. In his free time, you’ll find him with a paintbrush in one hand, a football at his feet, or music in his ears.

He once dreamed of being a professional football player, chasing goals on the pitch. But recently, something shifted. After being introduced to farming projects through the Foundation, Captain discovered a new spark: agriculture. “I didn’t expect to enjoy it so much,” he says. “But I’ve visited farms in different provinces and learned how meaningful it can be.” With his growing interest and curiosity, we might just be looking at one of our first recruits for the agricultural learning centre we’re working on.

For a young boy who was once left behind, the idea of creating something sustainable—of nurturing land and life, resonates deeply. It’s not just a career option; it’s a calling to grow something long-lasting. Something hopeful.

And yet, another dream has taken root too: becoming a police officer. “I want to be someone people can rely on,” Captain says quietly. “Someone who protects others, the way I’ve been protected all my life.”

His words reflect a maturity beyond his years. They speak to a deep sense of gratitude and a desire to pay it forward. “I’ve received so much care,” he shares. “Now, I want to give that care to others.”

When asked about the people who’ve made the biggest impact on him, he smiles. “Mae Ja looked after me like her own son. She gave me warmth and comfort. And everyone at Hands—they’ve all been there for me. I’ll never forget that.”

There’s one moment that stands out clearly in Captain’s memory: the day he cycled alongside the Hands riders who came to visit. “I felt proud to be part of it,” he says. “It made me feel seen, like I mattered.”

And of course, he does. Captain’s life today is filled with learning, creativity, laughter, and the promise of a future that’s wide open. The boy who once had no documents, no voice, and no direction, is now standing tall with purpose.

To the Hands community—riders, donors, volunteers—Captain’s message is simple but heartfelt: “Thank you for giving me a future I believe in.”

His story is one of quiet resilience. There’s no fanfare, no dramatic moment of breakthrough. Just a steady unfolding of love, care, and opportunity. And that’s where the magic lives.
Because when we support a child, we do more than meet their needs.

We create space for their dreams.

We plant the seeds for a future filled with light.

And we stand with them, as they turn those dreams into reality.

Captain’s journey reminds us what’s possible when a child is surrounded by love, opportunity, and unwavering belief.

Together, we’re not just helping them survive.

Together, we’re creating bright futures.

Come and celebrate the impact of 20 years of Hands Across the Water at our special anniversary events in Sydney and Bangkok in October and November.

Buy Tickets for the Night of Celebration

The Boy Who Stayed: Captain’s Rise Through Compassion and Courage

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