From West to Far East

"I'm used to living in the hustle and bustle of the city. Everything is in pursuit of material things. But when I moved to the remote and rural areas, I felt a sense of calmness and reflected a lot to be more grateful. Especially when I see many children who still cannot get their rights like I did as a child when I was in the city," said Ika, a young woman who was born and raised in Medan. "Seeing them makes me realize how lucky I am to be born into a family that can provide spiritual and physical needs," she said.  

Currently, Ika works as an education project coordinator at WVI's operational office in Biak, Papua. Growing up as a girl close to the teaching culture had made Ika also want to become a teacher. However, a family figure who worked in a nonprofit organization influenced Ika to become a humanitarian worker.  

While working at WVI, Ika had many interesting experiences, especially when she had to adapt to an area that was completely foreign and far from her family. "At first, I found it quite difficult to adapt, starting from small things like food, very limited facilities, and different local culture," Ika said. "But the difficulties I experienced paid off when I met some very inspiring women. These women work as volunteers, which we call the Kelompok Peduli Anak. Despite their limitations, they are willing to work for the welfare of children without expecting anything in return."  

Seeing the sincerity of the community to move forward and improve the well-being of children makes Ika's steps lighter. The sacrifice of being away from her family and the limitations of living in a remote area no longer feel heavy because Ika has also found a new family that helps her adapt, and even inspires her to work further.  

"I want to continue my career in education, in schools, in the community. Especially with literacy issues," she said. Ika feels that her experience working with WVI is a step that she is very grateful for and she also advised, "Never be afraid to try to do things that have never been done and prioritize seeking experience,". 

Writer: Mariana Kurniawati (Communication Executive)