This article focuses on the outcomes of collaborative work undertaken between a team of social workers supporting a New Zealand social work student from the University of Waikato completing her final placement. The student was placed at Children’s Future International (CFI), a non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Battambang, Cambodia. While a great deal of research looks at learning achieved for students, this article examines whether the student had an impact on the knowledge, awareness and practice of the social workers and teachers at the NGO. Specifically, it considers the student’s focus on consumer empowerment and service dependency over a three-month period. Recommendations are provided to ensure the effectiveness of overseas placements.