I first met Cissy at the end of 2010 when she and her family moved all the way from Hawaii to Thailand. Her life brings new meaning to the phrase ‘multi-tasking.’ Graduating with a degree in Marketing, she managed her family’s restaurant and catering business for 16 years. She then went on to become a successful realtor and property manager, but the career she is most proud of is homeschooling her two children. Since joining ZOE, she has become equally as passionate about her work here in Thailand, dividing her time between directing the English as a Second Language Program, instructing in the ZOE Leadership School’s business classes, establishing ZOE’s on-campus store, library and reading room, and consulting with ZOE’s kitchen!
What’s also very exciting is, because of Cissy’s ‘make-it-happen’ work mantra, she has also established an exercise program for ZOE’s children and staff. If there’s ever an activity happening at ZOE in Thailand whether it’s trampolining or swimming lessons, dance classes, English camp, sports competitions or reading challenges in the library, it’s usually Cissy who is behind it! Few people could achieve this much in ten years!
Recently as we talked about the gym, sports courts, pool and family area, I had the chance to ask Cissy why she feels that sports and recreation are so important to the children and teens who have come to live at ZOE.
“Since becoming a missionary, I have been able to use many of the skills and
passions that God has nurtured in me. I see the influence of both my parents on
my life: my Dad was a food and beverage consultant who had a dream to open
his own restaurant chain and my Mum was a social worker with a heart for foster
care children. My desire for the kids at ZOE is the same as for my own two: that
they are equipped with the skills and drive to reach their potential, achieve their
dreams and realize all that God has planned for their lives.”
At ZOE we never underestimate the social aspect of sports and recreation. Playing together helps to form bonds based on trust and fun. For children recently rescued from trafficking, socialisation skills can be enhanced through various games and activities.
*If you have a passion to end child trafficking and ideas on how you could use your interests, skills or hobbies to influence your sphere, then please reach out and discuss your plans with us.
