Take IV: Eat, Pray, Love
Who doesn’t love a good rom-com? I know I do, but this isn’t quite that. Picture me, not Julia Roberts, navigating my way through life and adventures. Instead of pasta and romance, it's all about my journey of self-discovery as I explore the world beyond my comfort zone.
Despite being almost ten thousand miles from Virginia, it doesn’t feel far from home. Initially, traveling solo, especially as a woman, was intimidating. But I was pleasantly surprised by the kindness and friendliness I encountered, making friends like never before.
Before this adventure, I closed my spring semester feeling slightly alone. My time at William & Mary came with many changes onset by a very different rural setting. This experience prepared me to embrace cultural immersion in Indonesia with excitement and curiosity. I met amazing people who led with passion and pride, facing hardships but still fighting to create the life they deserved. Overcoming my own challenges, I knew sharing their stories could spread a little inspiration everywhere.
Mrs. Sucy Delyarahmi
You may have read my earlier posts, but let me reintroduce you to political science lecturer Mrs. Sucy. As a faculty member at Andalas University (UNAND), she arrives at work every day exuding grace. As I fellow fashionista, I grew fond of anticipating her next day's outfit. What struck me the most was Mrs. Sucy's endless curiosity and her constant desire to learn more about the world. Even in her constitutional law class, she eagerly engaged Stephanie and me in discussions about how the U.S. judicial branch respects the sovereignty of America's indigenous population. Mrs. Sucy is living proof that women can have it all!
Recently, she took part in a public discussion hosted by the Center for Constitutional Studies (PUSaKO) at Andalas University on "Women's Participation in the 2024 Elections." The event aimed to encourage more women to engage in the election process and offered valuable knowledge, e-certificates, and networking opportunities to participants.
Wulan Derricka
Next, is Wulan. Wulan had the type of personality that adds warmth to a room. When I met her, she had only experienced the devastating loss of her mother a few months prior. Although she is only in her early twenties, she has shown so much maturity in supporting her father and two younger siblings. Through the circumstances, Wulan remains open to embrace her next chapter after
graduating earlier this year. She continues to work as full-time as a researcher for PUSaKO research center while she prepares to be a prosecutor. Wulan balances strength and dedication in both her personal and professional life; this reminds me of the individual strength within us all. For that reason, her commitment to her family, mental health, and her future is truly uplifting
Mr. Feri Amsari
Mr. Feri Amsari is known for his resilience and fearless commitment to exposing government corruption in Indonesia. As graduate of William & Mary Law School’s LLM program, Mr. Feri has dedicated his career to advocating for transparency in Indonesia. His work has shed light on numerous instances of corruption within the government, making him a prominent figure in the fight for justice.
Most recently, Mr. Feri documented the corruption surrounding Indonesia’s president-elect, Prabowo Subianto, who has a controversial human rights record. Prabowo is notorious for allegations of commanding a unit that abducted and tortured democracy activists during the late 1990s. Of the 23 activists, some survived, one died, and 13 remain missing. Following these events, Prabowo was fired from the army and went into self-exile in Jordan before returning to Indonesia to build his wealth and enter politics.
Feri’s work, including his documentary on corrupted elections and other government malpractices, has informed the public and put him at great personal risk. Despite the dangers, Mr. Feri continues to push for accountability and justice, making significant contributions to Indonesia’s legal and political landscape. His unwavering dedication and bravery are a testament to what one person can achieve with enough courage and determination.
Khaza Huda
Although Khaza consistently displays her humility, she researches at Pusat Studi dan Konstitusi (PUSaKO) as a UNAND law student. As a native of the Aceh Province, her passion of legal writing and research stems from her aim to ensure that young people's rights are not neglected. Already in her first year, Khaza won a competition hosted by the Judicial Commisiion of the Republic of Indonesia. She is also actively involved in the Asian Law Students Association and recently completed a community service project supporting the West Sumatra border. While Khaza maintains a busy schedule filled with meetings, I'm most admirable of her ability to prioritize her respect for relationships amongst her hard work. I know that her passion for justice will be met with her tireless efforts to support her community.
This journey taught me that our world is big but we're closely connected by our shared human experiences. From Virginia to Indonesia, the lives of these incredible individuals have expanded my worldview and inspired me to keep exploring, learning, and growing.
Dimana ada kemauan, di situ ada jalan.
“Where there is a will, there is a way.”