Volunteer
While we graciously accept help in all forms, the most impactful way to make a difference is most likely volunteering. We accept volunteers both in country as well as remotely. No matter what your field of interests or specialities are, there is more than likely a place for you here at Agri-Smart and a platform to start creating change.
Please read through some of our previous team members’ testimonials below as well as some volunteer FAQs. If you feel like Agri-Smart and BB2C may be a good fit for you, please get in touch at paula.shirk@bb2c.org.
Testimonials
1. Hometown
2. Experience at Agri-Smart
3. Favorite restaurant in Phnom Penh
4. Top activity in Phnom Penh
5. Ideal Cambodian getaway
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Kimlang Teung
1. Banteay Srey, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia.
2. Agri-Smart is a small team with a strong team spirit; no hierarchy or pressure. Engineering and field teams are well cooperated and very helpful.
There are many different kinds of activities and the approach is always innovative. Sometimes our work could be very challenging, because we had to go around with the motor bike (village scouting and pump demo). However, my team never complained and we would always have a great time getting the job done.
3. Vegetarian restaurants like the Green Buddha. Sovanna beer garden and karaoke bars to celebrate our successful work together.
4. Chilling along the riverside and at the Olympic Stadium. Watching documentaries at Meta house and attending shows at Bophana center.
5. Kep and Kampot provinces are my favorite places to get some peace and quiet from busy Phnom Penh.
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Timothe Husser
1. I grew up in a small town from the North-East of France and then moved to Nancy and Grenoble for studies.
2. What I appreciated the most was definitely the opportunity to work on several different aspects of the company, including engineering issues, negotiations with potential partners or business development. The position also involved a lot of field trips that are a chance to discover the country from another perspective.
3. There are so many good and affordable restaurants in Phnom Penh that it is hard to choose. However, my preference goes to Spring Vale, a small Japanese Restaurant.
4. 5-a-side soccer games after work against both locals and expats were definitely my favourite, no hesitation! There are plenty of pitches all around the city where it is possible to play for less than $2 per hour. The suffocating heat makes it quite challenging but you quickly get used to it.
5. Kampot is the place to go if you’re looking to escape Phnom Penh’s activity that might appear a bit overwhelming at times. It’s only 3 hours from the capital. My favorite things to do there are climbing Bokor Moutain, eating crabs or going to the beach in Kep, renting motorbikes and wandering in the countryside or simply chill in one of the many guesthouses. It is quite touristy but remains pretty quiet and traditional compared to other places.
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Todd Hyman
1. Atlanta, GA.
2. Improving lives.
3. Eleven-One Kitchen.
4. Psa Orussey.
5. Kep.
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Catherine Charnov
- Brooklyn, New York.
- This isn’t a desk job. You get to conduct market research travel to the provinces, speak with farmers, and make a real impact.
- Banh Mi Bros. They make the best sandwiches!
- Nerd Night Phnom Penh.
- Koh Ta Kiev.
Nan Zhang
My favorite part about working at BB2C is its localized approach and nimble environment! BB2C believes that people must be in charge of their own development. Cambodians make products using Cambodian materials for Cambodian communities – this is what sustainable development should be!
Everyone involved is so passionate about poverty reduction and they work 24/7. Founder Paula is a very energetic, lively, kind and devoted person. I truly admire her and you will love working with the whole team!
Jacqueline Parisi
Wherever your interests lie, there is always important work to be done for a small, yet rapidly developing, start-up like BB2C. Before I started working, Paula told me: “I promise you, you will not be stuffing envelopes.” She was right. BB2C volunteers play an integral role in the organization. Their opinion is valued and their skills are utilized. I have learned so much during my time with BB2C and have loved every minute of it. Even though I sit 9000 miles away from Phnom Penh, I can sense the value of collaboration.
How much of a time commitment is volunteering?
It is preferred that a volunteer can commit to a minimum of two months to contribute meaningfully to our projects. However, there are always small tasks that we seek help on. Should you need a more flexible time requirement, a suitable schedule and project can be pre-arranged.
What are the work hours?
Hours vary depending on meetings and travel outside of Phnom Penh, but in general office hours are 8am – 5pm.
Can I volunteer even if I’m not in Cambodia?
Yes! We have a global network of passionate volunteers in Italy, the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Egypt, Vietnam, Austria and Germany. Remote volunteers may contribute 10-20 hours a month. However, we are very respectful of your time boundaries and allow flexibility.
Are there any volunteer fees?
We charge no fees to volunteer with us. All we ask is for your sincere dedication to our project during your time here.
Is housing provided?
Basic housing can be arranged at the office for the first few weeks until you settle into Phnom Penh.
Where is the office located?
The Cambodian office is located in the south of Phnom Penh. You can find the exact location on the Contact us page.
How do I get around Phnom Penh and to the office?
Moto or tuk tuk is the best mode of transportation but bicycle is also a convenient means of transport depending on how far you are from the office.
What is the cost of living in Cambodia?
Apartments in Phnom Penh range from $90 – $300 per month (averaging $150 – $250). Local street food is as cheap as $1 but can range up to $6 depending on the restaurant. Drinks vary between $0.50 – 2.5.
What is the best neighborhood to find an apartment?
The office is in the south of the city, so the best neighborhoods to live in are near Russian Market, BKK1 or Tonle Bassac.
Will I travel as part of this position?
There are frequent field research trips to neighboring provinces, longer travel to other parts of Cambodia for product demonstrations, and occasional international travel to deliver products abroad. A team of three recently went to Borneo!
Do I need a visa to enter Cambodia?
Cambodia requires that all foreign visitors receive a visa when entering Cambodia. Fortunately, visas are available for purchase at the Phnom Penh airport and the process is straightforward and quick. Tourist visas cost $30 USD and can only be renewed one time. Business visas cost $35 USD and can be renewed indefinitely. Visas can also be obtained beforehand through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (www.mfaic.gov.kh).
Will I need health insurance while I’m here?
Although not required, we highly suggest that volunteers purchase travel or volunteer insurance for the duration of their stay.