Two French university students, Maxim and Thibaut, from Excelia Business School in Tours, shared their experiences interning with the Mirror Foundation in Thailand. The internship offered them the opportunity to support underprivileged communities and learn about Thai culture. Their stories were featured on the foundation's Facebook page on May 5, promoting its programme and encouraging more volunteers to join.
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Maxim and Thibaut chose Thailand for their university-required community work project, which emphasizes empathy and social responsibility. They applied to the Mirror Foundation after discovering it online, aiming for an active and impactful internship. Throughout their placement, they collected and repaired donated items like computers and furniture for underprivileged schools and children.
A notable experience for them involved aiding a disabled girl named Whan Whan, who relied on online learning but lacked a computer. Maxim and Thibaut delivered and set up a computer at her home, teaching her to use educational software, thus enhancing her educational opportunities. This encounter highlighted the social inequalities they observed during their internship.
The experience profoundly impacted Maxim and Thibaut, motivating them to make a difference in others' lives. They observed distinct differences in working cultures, noting Thai teamwork contrasts with the individual focus often seen in France. Encouraging other international students to join, they praised the Mirror Foundation for its professionalism and robust support network.
Looking forward, the Mirror Foundation continues its mission to assist vulnerable groups in Thailand, including its notable work with hill tribes, missing persons, and the homeless community in Bangkok. Their efforts position the organisation as a pivotal force in community support.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 07 Mar 2026