Pass It Back is a unique program run by ChildFund Rugby that gives young people like Diep opportunities to play, learn, and grow through sport. After games are played, Diep moderates discussions with her team on a wide range of issues – from healthy relationships, and gender equality, to financial planning and creating safe communities.
Diep also has some new pen pals who are giving her a unique insight into life in other parts of the world. Through her regular exchange of letters with child sponsors Kent and Sarah Sweitzer in the USA, Diep is learning about the world outside her neighbourhood. “I know more about my sponsors’ lives, their customs, the weather, and changes in their society,” Diep says.
Meeting Kent and Sarah in-person only strengthened this connection. During their visit in 2019, Diep took on the role of local tour guide, showing them around her community, sharing a meal, and, of course, giving them the opportunity to see her rugby skills in action.
Diep says her love for rugby grew quickly. “I admired the coaches for their knowledge, so I wanted to become a coach to show children how they can be confident and protect themselves,” Diep says.
After returning home, the Sweitzers decided to extend their help to Diep’s community by providing her secondary school with 16 new computers and other equipment.
