OUR STORY
“Imagine growing up not knowing who you are or where you came from? ”
-Li-Da Kruger, Co-founder of Reconnecting Cambodia Project
This is the story behind the Reconnecting Cambodia project.
Li-Da Kruger (known as MEN Ly Da on her sketchy exit papers) was airlifted out of Cambodia to be adopted in the UK aged 1, just before the fall of Phnom Penh in 1975.
She has spent her adult life looking for clues about her past and birth family – without success. That was until commercial DNA testing became available, which led her to discover blood relatives, though initally distant for the first time.
This breakthrough opened up a world of hope and possibility for Li-Da and countless others who have no memory or access to crucial infomration. DNA creates a starting point from where to start searching, which she didn’t have before, enabling her to narrow down family lines through DNA matches with her, or not. She is on the cusp of finding out who her birth parents were and if she had siblings.
DNA genotyping is a high-tech solution to the age-old humanitarian problem of reconnecting families following widespread displacement.
To watch Li-Da’s story in two documentaries, click on the titles below.
Although PG certificate, please be warned the contents may have a trauma triggering affect.
“Prue Leith Journey With My Daughter” (Channel 4, 2020) - 47 Mins | Bright Button Productions, Directed by Lottie Gamon
When Li-Da (45 years old) and her adoptive mum explore her Cambodian roots, only DNA can reveal whether Li-Da has found her biological mother, Mrs Hong Soth. Inspired by Mrs Soth’s story, the Reconnecting Cambodia project is as an extension of both her and Mrs Soth’s family search spanning near to 50 years and highlights DNA’s unique power in helping the Cambodian story.
“Belonging” (ITV, 2003) - 38 Mins | FulcrumTV, Directed by Tamara Gordon
This Grierson award-nominated film follows 27-year-old Li-Da's emotional journey back to Cambodia, seeking answers about her biological family and birthplace. It weaves a compelling personal tale of laughter, tears, and disappointment while offering a raw glimpse into modern Cambodia's struggle with its past and its hopeful path forward..
