An arborist is a profession that many people are still unfamiliar with. To put it simply, it is akin to being a ‘tree doctor’. It takes not just being a good climber, but also true knowledge of tree care. Today, let’s meet Ampai, also known as Bow, a former sponsored child of World Vision Foundation of Thailand and learn how she received opportunities that led her to become a strong and capable female arborist.
Let’s turn back the clock to 20 years ago, in a kindergarten classroom in Kaeng Krachan District, Phetchaburi Province. A small girl sat staring at a large bag placed at the front of the classroom, her eyes filled with wonder. Who would have thought that a bag full of gifts would become the starting point of a life-changing journey? “I was both confused and happy, wondering who had sent it,” recalls 24-year-old Bow, thinking back to the moment she was first introduced to World Vision Foundation of Thailand. That memory remains vivid, as if it happened just yesterday.
“I was so happy. There were so many things that my friends gathered around to see. It felt grand. They were packed in a sack!” Bow laughs as she recounts. “I shared the gifts with my younger siblings at home. There were children’s cartoon CDs we watched so many times they started skipping!” That first gift sparked something in young Ampai’s heart—a lesson in the value of giving.
Looking back at Bow’s childhood, she grew up in a family with six siblings, being the fourth child. Her family not only faced financial hardship but also had to learn to sacrifice and share mutual support. “My eldest sibling only finished Grade 9 and then left school to work and send money home so the younger ones could continue studying.” Bow’s parents worked on farms and took on odd jobs. Their income was modest, and everyone had to pitch in to make ends meet. They instilled in their children the importance of self-reliance rather than waiting for help. As a result, Bow began earning a small income from a young age. “In primary school, I got 5 baht a day for school. On weekends, I helped pull weeds, did small jobs, and even braided hair for friends to earn money for snacks.” These experiences taught her the value of money earned through hard work and self-contentment from perseverance.
The hardships faced by this little girl could not be ignored by World Vision Foundation of Thailand. But what kind of help would lead to sustainable well-being? That question lies at the heart of the Child Sponsorship Programme. From that first gift, support continued throughout Bow’s education journey. She speaks with heartfelt gratitude: “I received education funds, school supplies, school uniforms, and shoes. Without support from World Vision Foundation of Thailand, I would have had to wear hand-me-down uniforms from my cousins, changing the embroidered name to mine.” For a family with six children, such support was immensely meaningful.
“When I finished Grade 12, I wanted to continue studying, but my parents said they could not afford it. I wanted to study so badly that even without a fund, I planned to work during school breaks to save up for tuition.” Despite the challenges, she never gave up on her dream. With a GPA of 3.9 and unwavering determination, she applied to the Faculty of Forestry at Kasetsart University and was accepted. Yet, the cost remained a major obstacle.
Perhaps it was her heartfelt prayers that led to a turning point in Bow’s life. “One day, a staff member of World Vision Foundation of Thailand asked if I wanted to continue studying and told me to write a letter to a potential sponsor, hoping someone kind-hearted would support me.” That letter opened the door to World Vision Foundation of Thailand’s Bachelor’s Degree Programme. “I was so happy and relieved. No more worries about tuition. My parents were proud, and it really eased their burden.” Her joy was not hers alone—it was a beacon of hope for the entire family.
This opportunity led Bow to find her passion and self-discovery at university. She did not just learn from textbooks but found an activity that changed her life forever when she joined the ‘KU Arborist Club’. It was a pivotal moment. “The club focuses on tree climbing using rope systems. I love adventure activities, and once I tried climbing, I found it really fun. Tree climbing requires technique—you cannot just climb and cut branches randomly. You need to know the methods and safety protocols first.”
The knowledge and skills she gained from the club were not just recreational but became the foundation for her future. As a club member, Bow advanced to national competitions and represented Thailand on the international stage at the Taiwan Tree Climbing Championship (TWTCC 2024) and the Asia Pacific Tree Climbing Championship (APTCC 2024). “In Taiwan, I won third place in the Master Challenge and became Thailand’s representative at the Asia-Pacific level, where I won first place in the Throwline Event and second in the Speed Climb. There are five events in the competition, all based on real-life tree work. You have to throw a weight to guide the rope up, install equipment, and climb to work. In emergencies, you must be able to rescue others.” Bow explains with expertise. These achievements were not by chance but came from her rigorous training, determination, and seizing every opportunity.
After graduation, Bow chose a path different from her original plan. “At first, I thought I would join the government or work directly in my field. But during my studies, I got involved in many activities and realised some could become careers.” Today, she works in a rare profession in Thailand—a professional arborist. It is not just a job for money, but one she truly loves. “I feel proud when I care for a dying tree and later see it recover. It feels amazing.”
Last October, Bow stood on stage to receive her degree. That day was not just her personal success but a moment of pride for her entire family. “I am the first among my siblings to graduate with a bachelor’s degree. My parents are proud that I graduated and have a career. It is a success of the entire family.” She has become the pillar of light and hope for her siblings.
One of the most touching moments in Bow’s life was meeting her sponsor in person. “I was really nervous at first. But after we talked, I felt so moved. They supported me for four years without even knowing me personally.” The advice she received will stay with her forever. “When we met, my sponsor was happy to see me graduate and working, just as they had hoped. They were even happier after hearing about my studies and work, and told me not to worry as I was on the right track. They encouraged me to try many things while I still have the energy and said I could always reach out if I needed help.”
Today, Bow has a clear goal for the future. “Right now, I want to keep gaining experience. Within five years, I hope to pass the civil service exam so my parents can receive the government’s welfare benefits.” But more importantly, she wants to pay it forward. “If I become financially stable, I want to be a giver like I once received, because I know there are many children who lack funds but have the will to study.”
Bow’s story highlights the importance of continued support. Long-term assistance is not just about solving immediate problems—it is an investment in a sustainable future for society, especially in education, a gateway to improving the well-being of entire families. “I want to thank World Vision Foundation of Thailand staff, the field officers, and my sponsors. Without them, I would not have had this opportunity. Thank you for supporting me to study, grow, and pursue my dreams,” Bow concludes with a smile of heartfelt gratitude.
