For 16 years, Little Hearts has been more than just a place for Ilay Meas to live. It has been her home, her foundation, and the space where she grew into the young woman she is today. Ilay came to Little Hearts when she was just nine years old; she was among the very first children welcomed to the organization’s original location in Phnom Penh. From those early days until now, Little Hearts has seen her transition through childhood, education, and early adulthood.
In September 2024, Ilay reached an important milestone: she graduated from university. Shortly thereafter, she took another big step forward by starting her professional career. Today, Ilay works at Linda Gold Crucible Company as a Jewelry Designer, where she designs and creates detailed 3D models of jewelry, bringing intricate and beautiful pieces to life through digital art. Although she has been in this role for only five months, she already feels enthusiastic about her work. While the position is somewhat different than what her Interior Design major trained her for, she values the opportunity to learn new skills, gain creative experience, and grow professionally. Each day challenges her to develop, adapt, and look forward to new possibilities.
Stepping into adulthood has been both meaningful and challenging for me,” she says. “Becoming a working adult means taking on greater responsibilities, making important decisions, managing time, and facing pressures that can sometimes feel overwhelming. At the same time, it has taught me independence, resilience, and self-growth. While student life focused mainly on learning with guidance and support, working life demands accountability, building maturity, confidence, and real-world skills.
Now, Ilay is ready for another important transition: she is ready to leave Little Hearts and begin an independent life outside the home. She will be moving in with her older sister, Ilang, and together they are committed to working hard, supporting one another, and building a better future.
Ilay officially left Little Hearts last Sunday, but before that day came, she was surrounded by love. Her brothers and sisters, together with Dad Tony and the staff, gathered to send her off with warm hearts. They prepared handmade gifts, shared parting messages, and offered best wishes for the journey ahead. Ilay also received heartfelt messages and encouragement from supporters in Belgium, many of whom have watched her grow over the years. These moments reminded her that she is not alone and that she carries a community with her wherever she goes.
Leaving Little Hearts is an emotional experience filled with mixed feelings. Saying goodbye to a place that has been your home for so many years is not easy. It means leaving behind familiar faces, routines, and memories. Yet, Ilay knows that this step is necessary—a step toward independence, growth, and becoming the person she dreams of being. Leaving does not mean forgetting; it means carrying Little Hearts with her as she moves forward.
As she looks back, Ilay shares these thoughts with her younger brothers and sisters: “Believe in yourselves and never give up on your dreams. Work hard, stay patient, and keep learning, even when life feels difficult. Respect others, listen to Dad, the staff, and the older kids, and always choose kindness. Mistakes are part of growing—what matters is learning from them and becoming stronger.”
And for Little Hearts and Tony, Ilay has this farewell message: “With a grateful heart, I thank Little Hearts and Dad for the love, care, and guidance that have shaped my life. Through every challenge and every success, you have always been my support. As I take this next step, I carry your lessons, encouragement, and love with me. I promise to work hard, stay strong, and make you proud.”
