Living amidst uncertainties indeed poses undeniable challenges. For some, these circumstances breed insecurity and discomfort. Yet, for others, it sparks a glimmer of hope—an opportunity to grow, adapt, and emerge as empowered individuals. Survival in disruptive times demands perseverance, a dauntless spirit, and adaptability. Equipped with these traits and the ability to seize opportunities, one can conquer obstacles effortlessly.
Meet Rahma Fariza (Echa), a Gen-Z who exemplifies unyielding determination paving the way for newfound possibilities. Through her inspiring journey, she discovers strengths and becomes a change-maker in her community. This is a story of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformational power of perseverance when an individual fearlessly embrace challenges, pursues their dreams and takes action.
Unveiling The Power Within
Completing senior secondary education amidst the COVID-19 pandemic posed immense challenges for Echa, a determined girl from Kunjir Village in Indonesia. With an unyielding spirit, she aspired to leave her home town in pursuit of job opportunities in Java, only to be confronted with a bleak reality—scant prospects awaited her there. The pervasive uncertainty cast its shadow over the economy, exacerbating the scarcity of employment opportunities. Consequently, she made a pivotal decision—to return to her home town.
Nevertheless, rather than succumbing to despair, she widened her gaze, refusing to let any potential opportunities elude her. In a stroke of fortune, an invitation came her way in 2021—to join the Community Information Group (KIM), a public institution under the Ministry of Communication and Information. Without hesitation, she embraced this opportunity.
To her astonishment, her involvement in this institution, aiming to foster an engaged and empowered community through information access and comprehension, proved to be more than a learning experience. It drives her towards transformational adventures, enriching her insights and expanding her capabilities.
“I was overjoyed to have the opportunity to learn about documenting community activities, but it took me by surprise when it eventually led me to another opportunity. Through my involvement in KIM, I was appointed to assist the village government as a computer operator, entrusted with administrative tasks and data entry for the Village Information System (SID) application,” said Echa, brimming with enthusiasm.
Liberating Compassion
Echa, like her peers, embarked on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth—a quest to unearth her true identity and explore her boundless potential. Driven by an ardent desire to broaden her horizons, she eagerly joined the “Strengthening the Resilience of Disaster-Prone Communities in South Lampung by Integrating Socio-Economic Risk Mitigation Measures Into Local Development Programs and Mechanisms Program. This collaborative initiative between Paluma Nusantara and Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB) Indonesia and the Philippines aimed to create sustainable, inclusive, and risk-aware livelihoods.
Despite her demanding role as a village operator, motivated by her deep-rooted commitment to community service, Echa actively participated in the program implemented across three villages—Suak, Kunjir, and Sukaraja—in South Lampung. The program resonated with her yearning to make a meaningful contribution to her community. Fortunately, Paluma’s meeting schedules were often held after office hours, allowing her to adeptly manage and balance her work responsibilities and volunteer commitments.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Paluma program as it has tremendously enriched my knowledge. It goes beyond providing me with insights into disabilities, inclusion, and disaster management. It has sharpened my understanding of data collection, fostered meaningful community interactions, and nurtured empathy within me. I have gained a profound understanding of the hardships faced by women responsible for their families’ economic well-being,” she expressed.
Unchaining Potential
As Echa’s involvement in a series of workshops and surveys conducted by Paluma deepened, it opened doors to another opportunity. This time, she was entrusted with the responsibility of hosting the Results of Preliminary Condition Studies workshop.
Given her limited experience as a master of ceremonies and awareness of the presence of district officials, self-doubt crept in. Yet, her fellow volunteers rallied around her, offering unwavering support and motivation, assuring her of her capabilities to fulfil the role. Encouraged by their conviction, Echa accepted the offer, embracing it as a challenge to thrive upon.
Driven to deliver her best performance and refusing to disappoint those who trusted and uplifted her, Echa dedicated countless hours to honing her skills. She meticulously crafted notes to facilitate a seamless execution.
“I was determined to present the event with natural confidence as if I were a professional MC. So, I pushed myself by making thorough notes and practising for days,” she humorously explains.
Her hard work bore fruit. Echa exceeded expectations, fulfilling her role with remarkable poise, and the workshop she hosted proceeded without any significant obstacles. This achievement became a pivotal milestone in her journey, empowering her to overcome lingering shyness about appearing in public. The experience served as a powerful catalyst, bolstering her self-confidence to new heights.
