Login
Login

Building a Life of Choice: Kim’s Journey

01 Apr 2026
Hello, my name is Kim,I am now 25 years old. When I was young, life was uncertain. After my mother passed away, I lived with my older sister, and we faced many challenges together. She tried her best to care for me, but circumstances made things difficult, and I moved between different homes in search of safety and support.

One day, I arrived in Phang-Nga with nowhere to go. I stayed at a bus station, unsure of what would happen next. Thankfully, people nearby noticed and reached out to help. They connected me with the Children and Family Shelter, who referred me to BTNC. That moment marked the start of a new direction in my life.

Through BTNC, I was introduced to Hands. I joined in 2015, and I still remember my first day. I went out with the older children and, for the first time in a long while, I felt like I belonged somewhere. I felt supported, seen, and welcomed.

Hands has always been more than an organisation to me. It is a place that supports children who have faced adversity, giving them opportunities to learn, grow, and build a future they can choose. Hands provided guidance, encouragement, and stability, helping me believe that my life could look different from my past.

Before Hands, I had limited access to education, and my future felt uncertain. With their support, I was able to study, to explore my interests, and to grow in confidence. One of the most meaningful parts of this journey was the constant presence of caring people — mentors who encouraged me, guided me, and believed in me even when I doubted myself. It felt like having an older brother, someone who would help whenever I faced challenges.
I discovered a passion for music, especially playing the saxophone, which gave me a way to express myself and build confidence. I also became interested in politics and governance, dreaming of a future where I could contribute to my community and country.

With guidance from Hands, I completed my secondary education and was accepted to study Public Administration at a university in Phuket. University was not always easy. There were times I struggled to understand lessons and moments when I felt overwhelmed. But I kept going, encouraged by friends, mentors, and the knowledge of why I started. Slowly, I grew more confident and capable.

Graduating with my bachelor’s degree was something I had never imagined possible. I am proud to be the first person in my family to complete a university degree. This achievement is not just mine, it reflects the support and belief of everyone who walked alongside me.

Today, I am working at the Phuket City Municipality, building a stable life and contributing to my community. I am preparing for the civil service examination, and my goal is to serve Thailand and create positive opportunities for others. In five years, I hope to be a civil servant, helping build brighter futures for my community.

To everyone who supports Hands around the world, thank you. Because of your care and encouragement, children like me are given opportunities to learn, grow, and shape their own futures. You have helped us build a life with choice, confidence, and hope.
And to the younger children still studying, I want you to know this: education is powerful, and perseverance matters. Even when life is challenging, keep moving forward. Your future is yours to create.


With the support of Hands, I received an education.

With encouragement and opportunity, I built a stable career.

With people walking beside me, I am building a life of choice.

And now, I am building a brighter future.
Previous
Next