“As you grow , you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” — Audrey Hepburn
When I first arrived in Jakarta as a teacher an early experience was burst the bubble. The idea was to have new teachers visit the service clubs partners in Jakarta. I found my place with GK (Gerakan Kepedulian) Indonesia and never looked back. I lead the middle school service for 8 years.
February 2020 as the news of a pandemic was spreading as fast as the virus I worked with donors and designed face masks that were made at 2 of our partner sites. We were some of the first to offer face masks in Jakarta. Total sales from 2 tired sewing machines were above 15,000 masks and provided a needed income for dozens of families that were hit hard by the shut down. I worked closely with the community to design and prototype different materials and sizes as well as sales.
Afterwards I worked with our high school service club on an idea of Share Your Care. This provided over 500 food packages for the families in need.
I have always thought that helping those who are in need is something that is part of our responsibility to a world we all live in, regardless of nationality, race, faith, culture. We all share the same world.
ISP- Indonesian School Program
The Indonesian School Program is a chance to work with Indonesian teachers as part of professional development for Indonesian teachers. I have been fortunate to have worked with those teachers for 3 years as a presenter. Working as a lead on professional development has the benefit that not only did they learn from me but I from them as well as breaking down stereotypes and making new friends.
Habitat for Humanity
I have worked in our Middle School but because of relationships build with our students have expanded to Habitat builds. I have worked on 10 homes including JIS 100th home. WAtching a family smile as they move into their first home has been rewarding.
GESS Educational Conference
IN 2016, the Indonesian Ministry of Education founded the first educational conference in Jakarta. I have presented at the conference for 3 years.