Matt Baker on Little Acorns, Cambodia, and Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life

From supporting vulnerable children to exploring hidden corners of the Kingdom, Matt shares his journey with Cambodia.

For many expats and travellers, Cambodia is a place that leaves a lasting impression. For Matt Baker, that impression turned into a lifelong commitment. As Chair of the UK-registered charity Little Acorns, Matt has spent years building connections with Cambodian communities while also deepening his personal appreciation for the country’s culture, people, and landscapes.

In this interview, Matt talks about how Little Acorns supports children through its partnership with the Future Light Organization (FLO), what drives his work, and the moments in Cambodia that continue to inspire him beyond his charity role.

On Little Acorns and Its Mission

Could you introduce yourself and tell us how you first came to be involved with Cambodia?
“I am Matt Baker, Chair of the UK-registered charity Little Acorns. I first visited Cambodia in 2006 during a trip through Southeast Asia, and that experience marked the beginning of my long connection with the country.”

What drew you to focus much of your charitable work here?
“During my first visits to Cambodia in 2006 and 2007, I met an inspirational Cambodian woman, Ms Nuon Phaly, who had survived the Khmer Rouge. Her courage and commitment to supporting children deeply affected by that period had a profound impact on me, and it was through her that I began to understand both the challenges the country faced and the resilience of its people.”

Little Acorns supports the Future Light Organization (FLO). For readers unfamiliar with it, could you explain what FLO does on the ground, and how your partnership with FLO ensures that donations are used effectively?
“The Future Light Organization, known as FLO, is a Cambodian non-profit organisation that provides a safe home, education, and opportunities for some of the country’s most vulnerable children. Many of the young people who come to FLO have lost parents or come from families unable to support them. FLO gives them not only shelter and schooling but also a sense of stability and belonging.

At Little Acorns, we work closely with FLO’s leadership team to make sure donations go directly to where they are needed most, from covering day-to-day running costs to providing school uniforms, sports clothing, and access to further education. Because we know the team personally and maintain direct oversight, we can be confident that every pound / dollar donated is used in a way that has a tangible impact on the children’s lives.”

One of your programmes is “Sponsor a Child.” How does that work in practical terms, and what changes in a young person’s life do you see when someone sponsors them?
“Our “Sponsor a Child” programme allows individuals, companies, or groups of people, via Little Acorns, to support a child at FLO. A full sponsorship is £100 ($130) per month, which covers essentials like food, education, healthcare, sports equipment, and utilities. All funds raised go directly to supporting our charitable projects. Little Acorns does not claim any expenses, so donors can be confident their contributions make a real difference.

We also welcome smaller contributions or joint sponsorships, so everyone can play a part. Every sponsor receives a welcome pack with information about their child, and we provide regular updates so you can see how your support is making a real difference. We want sponsors to feel part of the child’s journey and growth.”

You recently retired from a long career in the insurance industry and shifted to full-time charitable work. How has that transition changed your relationship with Cambodia and its communities?
“Retiring from a long career in insurance was a big decision, but one I’ve never regretted. It allows me to spend regular periods in Cambodia, deepening my understanding of the culture and communities. These visits are strengthening my connection with the country and allows me to meet people and see places I wouldn’t have encountered otherwise.”

What are some of Little Acorns’ most meaningful achievements so far—projects that surprised even you by how much of a difference they made?
“Beyond our regular support for FLO, in December 2024 we spent a week visiting six schools in some of Cambodia’s poorest provinces. We delivered motivational and inspirational presentations to over 400 pupils, and the children’s energy, curiosity, and positive response was incredibly moving. Experiences like this not only inspired us but also reinforced our commitment to continue giving back to these communities and supporting children in meaningful ways beyond financial assistance.”

Cambodia is growing fast. How do you see education and poverty relief evolving in Cambodia over the next few years, and what role do charities like Little Acorns play in supporting sustainable change?
“Cambodia is developing rapidly, but many children, especially in rural areas, still lack access to basic education and resources, and we have witnessed this firsthand. Over the next few years, progress in literacy, early childhood development, and poverty relief will be crucial. Charities like Little Acorns support these efforts by providing direct aid, helping ensure children have the safety, education, and opportunities they need to thrive.”

On Cambodia and Personal Connections

What do you enjoy most about spending time in Cambodia outside of your charity work?
“Little Acorns work has taken me to many parts of Cambodia, but I also enjoy revisiting these places on a personal level. Experiencing towns and everyday life helps me gain a deeper understanding of the country’s culture and history. I also try to keep active while I’m there, although running in the heat of Cambodia can be a challenge, so most of the time I stick to the cool of the gym!”

Are there places, cultural traditions, or daily experiences that stand out for you?
“FLO’s sister orphanage is located in Ratanakiri, and I’ve been fortunate to visit the area a couple of times. Experiencing such an ethnically diverse region is fascinating, with different cultures, languages, and ways of life. At FLO itself, the children learn and perform traditional Cambodian dance, which is incredibly graceful and captivating to watch. These experiences really bring the richness of Cambodian culture to life for me.”

Cambodia is famous for Angkor Wat, but what are some of your personal favourite discoveries here that visitors often overlook?
“While on the road trip in December, we visited schools across the provinces and drove through hundreds of miles of countryside, revealing the depth of Cambodia’s beauty. On my return in August, I met displaced families to provide food and medical supplies, and one of the locations was Kampot, which I hadn’t visited for some time. I’m also keen to return to Kep, which has its own unique charm and is a must-see for any visitor.”

How have friendships with Cambodians influenced your perspective? Could you share a story of a relationship that has stayed with you over the years?
“I’ve been fortunate to develop strong friendships with Cambodians, which has deepened my understanding of the country and its culture. Nuon Sothero, President of FLO, has become a close friend. Having survived a Khmer Rouge workcamp, his strength and resilience are a constant inspiration to me as we work together to raise awareness of FLO’s incredible work and beyond.”

You’ve been coming to Cambodia for some time. What changes have you noticed, and what do you think remains uniquely Cambodian despite development and modernization?
“Having visited Cambodia over many years, I’ve witnessed incredible development and modernization, from expanding cities and new infrastructure to improved access to education. Despite this rapid change, much remains uniquely Cambodian. The warmth and hospitality of the people, the importance of family and community, and the preservation of cultural traditions still define this amazing country. Back in Phnom Penh at the weekend, families and friends gather along the Riverfront, socialising, eating, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Walking Street.”

Looking Ahead

For people living in or visiting Cambodia who want to help, beyond donating money, what are practical ways to get involved that feel authentic and impactful?
“This is an interesting question, and one I was asked just a few days ago when Thero and I presented to an audience in London (Little Acorns invited him to share his incredible story). One simple but powerful idea we discussed was asking everyone to tell just one person about what we do. I truly believe that collective support in spreading awareness is as valuable as donations (and in many cases will lead to financial support as well), helping ensure Little Acorns can operate sustainably. We focus on providing children in Cambodia with access to education and safety – the essential foundations they need to thrive.”

Recap!

Matt’s story is a reminder of how one person’s connection to Cambodia can grow into something that benefits hundreds of children and families. Through Little Acorns, he has not only supported the Future Light Organization but also built lasting friendships and discovered the beauty of Cambodia far beyond the guidebooks.

For expats and travellers who call Cambodia home. or are just passing through, his message is clear: engaging with the country’s people, culture, and communities offers a richer, more rewarding lifestyle, while also making a real difference.

Find out more about Little Acorns here: https://little-acorns.org.uk/

	Cambodia
	https://www.cambodialifestyle.com
	+855 9 678 01791

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