“I have improved my advocacy and communication skills that I had never had a chance to do so before.”

Being an ESS coach is a new and challenging experience for Liengsysavanh. “At first, learning to manage my time between my job and coaching was exceptionally challenging.” he said. It’s important to schedule your time effectively for coaching.” He was a bit nervous at first because he did not have the knowledge or experience of being a coach, but with the training as an ESS coach, his skills have improved.

“When I first started, I didn’t know how to explain the project’s objective to the beneficiaries. And sometimes I could not answer their questions or give them clear information.”

After receiving three blocks of trainings, he has learned how to better communicate with others, especially when answering questions about the project. “I have improved my advocacy and communication skills to a level I had never experienced before,” he said.

Liengsysavanh explained that ESS training is all about organizing activities, speaking skills, teamwork, and mutual support. “I can apply them to my work, and as a result of the training, I am able to communicate with confidence,” he said.

“I have never been a coach or a member of an organizing committee before, but I can say that this project encourages everyone to express their opinions to others.”

Liengsysavanh talks proudly about his relationship with other ESS coaches. “Everyone in the team is very supportive, we constantly consult and coordinate with each other,” he said. I was very fortunate to have a good teammate who really helped me.” Liengsysavanh still considers himself a novice coach and relies on his fellow coaches for advice.