Ms Ruzic and her mother, Luiza Ruzic-Cappellani, recently spent a month working as volunteers with orphans and landmine victims.

``The trip has definitely made me appreciate what I have at home three meals a day, friends and family,'' she said. ``Even though I work with children everyday as a teacher's aide, this experience has really opened my eyes.''

The orphanage was a far cry from her job at Holy Spirit Primary School in Carnes Hill.

Ms Ruzic, 19, worked with about 60 kids involved in the Green Gecko project for children who were living on the streets. She taught English while her mother worked with disabled children who had been injured by landmines.

Ms Ruzic-Cappellani said she was touched by the children who had been through the trauma of losing limbs but were still so happy.

She said she would return later this year and this time would be taking one of her sons.

``He is really keen to come with us this time so he can teach the kids how to make shin pads, as soccer is really popular over there,'' she said.

``Another exciting thing is that there will be an on-going project through Sydney University for three occupational therapy students to go to Cambodia and work with the children.''