A backpack, two walking sticks, a small flag and a big smile — that’s all Claas Clements needed to set out on her great mission: walking 1,000 kilometres across Thailand to raise awareness and funds for Philanthropy Connections, a Chiang Mai based foundation supporting vulnerable communities across Southeast Asia.
Class, who reached the outskirts of Bangkok on the 10th of this month, after having left her home in Pattaya on the 7th October, says, “What began as a playful idea quickly turned into a heartwarming journey full of unforgettable encounters. Along the road, people have been incredibly kind — offering fruit, meals, water, and even spontaneous cash donations. Some walk beside me for a while, others stop their scooters just to shout encouragement. Every single day, people cheer me on with ‘Su Su!’ and ‘Geng maak!’ — keep going, you’re amazing! Their energy lifts me up more than they’ll ever know.”
Not every stretch has been easy Class told Citylife — especially the long, noisy, and dusty leg from Bang Wua to Bangkok. But through the heat and the traffic, Claas keeps smiling. “The goal is bigger than me,” she says. “Every step helps create opportunities for others.”
Now, well on her way, Class feels deeply grateful for all the warmth and enthusiasm she’s received along the way. Soon she’ll continue her walk — from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, through lush countryside, quiet villages, and stunning landscapes. “The second half will be tougher,” she admits, “but it’s also going to be even more beautiful.”
With tired feet but a happy heart, she adds: “If one step can make a difference, imagine what thousands can do. My main goal is to gain awareness of the education projects being done by Philantropy Connections and also to help them raise money, though I have no idea how much I can possibly raise.”
If you are interested in the works of Philantropy Connections, check them out here at: https://www.philanthropyconnections.org
Class invites everyone to follow her in social media (@stepsforabrighterfuture on facebook and instagram) and donations via this link:
https://www.philanthropyconnections.org/steps-for-a-brighter-future-claas-clements
Citylife’s editor Pim Kemasingki sat down with Philantrhropy Connections’s founder Salo Pollack a few years ago for a heart to heart which you can watch here: https://youtu.be/SRK6lMzYFkU
Find out more or support the cause at www.philanthropyconnections.org