The second annual ACCESS 2 staff retreat, held from 19–21 February 2025 in the picturesque provinces of Kampot and Kep, was a resounding success, fostering collaboration, professional growth, and a shared commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for DFAT. Bringing together both head office and sub-national staff, the retreat provided a dynamic platform to reflect on achievements, refine skills, and strengthen teamwork, ensuring the continued efficiency, effectiveness, and value-for-money delivery of the ACCESS 2 programme.
Building Team Cohesion and Strengthening Capacity
Designed as both a learning and bonding experience, the retreat focused on:
- Reviewing ACCESS 2’s goals, achievements, and key lessons learned.
- Providing refresher training on Safeguarding, GEDSI (Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion), and programme best practices.
- Encouraging teamwork and interdepartmental collaboration to drive greater programme impact.
Throughout the retreat, participants engaged in interactive learning activities, quizzes, and problem-solving exercises on GBV (Gender-Based Violence), disability inclusion, and rehabilitation initiatives. These sessions not only reinforced technical expertise but also nurtured a supportive, inclusive, and motivated team environment, ultimately improving service delivery for persons with disabilities and survivors of GBV.
Professional Growth and Lasting Connections
Expert-led training sessions provided essential updates on safeguarding and GEDSI, benefitting both professional and personal development. Beyond the formal sessions, the retreat offered a chance for staff to capture lasting memories through group photographs and informal networking, reinforcing team spirit and unity that extend well beyond the retreat itself.
Positive Feedback and Key Takeaways
The retreat concluded on an overwhelmingly positive note, with staff expressing appreciation for the opportunity to learn, engage, and collaborate.
Ms Sophia Cason, Team Leader, commended the team’s adaptability and cooperative spirit, which contributed significantly to the event’s success.
Reflections from Participants:
- “The retreat was a perfect blend of effectiveness, efficiency, and inclusiveness—strengthening teamwork, empowerment, and capacity development.” – Dr Ros Chhay, Decentralisation Lead.
- “The refresher training on GEDSI and Safeguarding was insightful, and the engaging activities made learning fun.” – Ms Heang Kanelle, Grants Manager.
- “Interactive exercises allowed us to exchange ideas, improving our collaborative approach.” – Mr Ky Oeun, Provincial Advisor, Kampong Cham.
- “The flexibility throughout the retreat was greatly appreciated.” – Ms Bou Makara, GBV Lead.
- “The experience reinforced our collective potential as a team.” – Mr Chhorn Sophon, Operations Manager.
Delivering Value for DFAT through Stronger Teams
Each annual ACCESS 2 retreat is a strategic investment in our people, programme delivery, and impact. By continuously enhancing staff capacity, collaboration, and motivation, we ensure the efficient, effective, and cost-conscious implementation of the programme. This commitment to excellence directly translates into high-value outcomes for DFAT, reinforcing ACCESS 2’s role in delivering sustainable, impactful change.
The 2025 retreat exemplified the strength of the ACCESS 2 team—united in purpose, driven by shared goals, and committed to delivering exceptional results. As we move forward, the insights and connections gained will continue to shape our innovative, inclusive, and results-driven approach to programme delivery.
