Another year has passed, and a new one is about to begin. If you ask me, though, the concept of New Year really is arbitrary, and using the Gregorian calendar as a symbol for change and new things to come is just a mind game. We as human beings constitute the change, if any, and that is something we all have the power to do any day of the year. Remember that on a dark and rainy days, long after New Year’s resolutions are broken or forgotten.
Times they are a-changing, though, new year or not. We’ve been in Cambodia for about two months, and so far it has been a fascinating journey of the mind, body and soul.
Life here is so relaxed I sometimes get the feeling we’re not getting anywhere at all. Then as I sit down to summarize our experiences, there is so much to tell I don’t know where to begin. Isn’t that odd?
Cambodia being one of the most corrupt countries in the world, we were prepared for a lot of bureaucracy, long negotiations, bribes and a generally difficult business climate. As it turns out, it’s far easier than in Sweden. Pay your business license and flat tax every month, stay below the radar, and the government leaves you alone. Suits us perfectly!
Finding qualified labor has turned out to be a challenge, for a number of reasons. Most of the English speaking Cambodians work in the tourism sector, and their lifestyle has been heavily influenced by western backpackers. Drinking, partying and slacking is often more important than showing up at work.
We’ve also found that Cambodians in general don’t care and plan for the future in the way we are accustomed to. Saving money for difficult times is almost unheard of. The work-reward model that western society is built upon isn’t understood here, instead people regard income and fortune as gifts from Buddha. This is fascinating as it calls for vastly different incentive models, a subject I will get back to later.
Our current employment strategy is to take on young individuals from small villages. These are poor people who we believe will benefit greatly from education, experience and income that we can provide. The language and cultural barriers are overcome by teaching English, with help from interpreters and some creative use of body language!
Currently, we have two full time employees from a nearby village, and an interpreter working part-time. We plan to employ 2-3 more people within the next few months, as we get started on production.
Speaking of production – we are looking forward to get started on what we actually came here to do – making some kick-ass products for you guys! This will be our focus for the upcoming weeks.
Anyways, arbitrary or not:
From all of us to all of you, Happy New Year!
Toby, Rani, Ana, Mom and Sammy
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