Disaster Response Indonesia Project #23204

YOU are the KEY

by Yayasan Cinta Anak Bangsa Foundation

Project Report | Oct 30, 2017
Gaining knowledge without hesitation

By Greg Stretton | project leader

Neneng.

"It doesn’t matter which school; the important thing is that the school diploma is legitimate. There is no need to be inferior because of school diplomas, because the important thing is refined knowledge".

When she graduated from the Mitra Reformasi Junior High School in 2005 in Kembangan, West Jakarta, Neneng was immediately searching for another school. Sadly, some of the private high schools she enquired at cost a fortune, and to enter a public school, her grades were simply not good enough. She was restless. The desire to go to school was burning up within her. However, if the cost was expensive, where could she get the money?

In the midst of her anxiety, a friend told her about Rumah Belajar (RB) in Duri Kepa. Neneng enthusiastically listened to how Rumah Belajar provided fantastic learning facilities. She immediately went to Rumah Belajar (RB) Duri Kepa. She fell in love at the first sight, and decided to continue her education at RB owned by YCAB Foundation. Its complete facilities, on par with regular schools, made Neneng excited. Her parents were supportive, especially because the cost of learning was very affordable,($1 per month) and the location was not far from home.

Neneng took the Package C class, the equivalent of high school. Her studying schedule remained like a regular school, from morning to noon. "In the early days there was a sense of shock, because it was different than public schools. Especially at that time, Rumah Belajar was newly established, with only a few students. I belong to an early generation of students in Rumah Belajar Duri Kepa,” Neneng said.

Opening Up Opportunities

The advantage of going to Rumah Belajar was that it offered vocational courses for its students, so students could have a choice of activities other than learning from a curiculum. Neneng did not waste the opportunity, immediately joining the salon course. She learned that she had the patience and thoroughness needed in doing hair care and body treatments. When Neneng was in the third grade, Rumah Belajar awarded a scholarship program for a course in Rudi Hadisuwarno Salon.(a local hair and beauty salon franchise) The course was conducted in Bulungan, Blok M, South Jakarta.

The youngest child is sometimes identified as a spoiled child, but not so with Neneng. On the contrary, she is very independent and she makes her parents proud.

After graduation, the scholarship recipients were assigned to be trainers at Rumah Cantik (RC) salon in Kedoya, West Jakarta. "Two friends and I were selected by the teacher to receive the scholarship. So, towards the final exam, my schedule was overwhelming. I must study for exams as well as the course," Neneng recalled.

But Neneng stayed encouraged. She even spurred herself to be more active and more diligent. In the mornings, she attended Rumah Belajar Duri Kepa. In the afternoons, she was in Blok M for the course. “Sometimes I stayed in late," said Neneng. The routine ran from Monday to Friday. "Schools and coursework were draining. Sometimes I had to struggle not to fall asleep," Neneng recalled.

“I never thought that I could get a scholarship.”

She understood, only with such hard work that she could change the life of her family. Hard work always brought brilliant results. Neneng passed the equivalent of high school and passed the exam course in Rudi Hadisuwarno Salon. She soon became a trainer at RC. By becoming a trainer, she could earn her own income. At such a young age, as a high school graduate, Neneng managed to be independent, no longer dependent on her parents. Neneng was excited about her days as a trainer. She enjoyed the process of sharing knowledge with others. Students studying in RC were not only limited to students in Rumah Belajar only, but there were also general students.

Neneng pioneered the opening of a salon serving the general public. In this salon, students could practice what they had learned. This was certainly a fun new challenge, because students used non-mannequin models. If clients were not satisfied, they could complain. But, on the bright side, clients paid for the services of the students. "I taught and served customers. I also oversaw students who were serving clients. If there was something wrong, I jumped in and helped out," said Neneng. As a trainer at RC, Neneng became a part of YCAB.

As she earned money working, so she was able to finance her own tuition in Universitas Indonesia Esa Unggul, majoring in Public Relations. Unfortunately, due to time and space constraints, RC's “open to all” salon did not last long. Due to many obstacles, the existence of RC was restored again as before, as a place of learning. By 2015, she was moved to the YCAB Business Lab section. Business Lab is a kind of program that prepares business plans from several courses held by RB so that every program is sustainable. What she is doing right now is the Business Lab for Rumah Jahit.(Sewing House) As a coordinator, Neneng should try to cover the operational cost of Rumah Jahit. She is to market a variety of Rumah Jahit’s products. "There are 11 products made from the basic material of denim. Pouches, yoga mats, clutches, iPad cases ... we can make it all," said Neneng. She also came up with new ideas, such as combining denim with batik or songket. "The majority of consumers are companies. And companies can place orders from Rumah Jahit, because the orders are quite large we all remain very busy. Additionally, we also receive goody bag orders," she added.

Optimistically Looking at The Future

Both parents are very proud of Neneng’s achievements. Of course, at a relatively young age, Neneng has managed to finance her own college tuition. As the youngest daughter, she has proved her determination to be independent. The girl born on July 17, 1990 shows the advantages of studying in Rumah Belajar. "If there are neighbors who are having financial difficulties, I encourage them to attend Rumah Belajar. I always emphasize that Rumah Belajar is good," said Neneng.

She felt that the good fortune and opportunity to learn in Rudy Hadisuwarno Salon was a golden opportunity that became beneficial for the journey of her life. When her neighbors held a wedding, Neneng was trusted to handle bridal makeup as well as the bride’s family. "The price is reasonable," said Neneng. "But I am happy, because my skills can be useful to others." She is grateful to be able to get extra income from her makeup and hair styling services. Neneng believes that Rumah Belajar helped her get to where she is now. "The confidence from YCAB for the course in Rudi Hadisuwarno makes me feel lucky and this is my motivation to continue studying non-stop," Neneng explained gratefully.

Neneng is just one of YCAB Foundations youth who have been given the chance to stand on thier own two feet and become independant, Please donate today and help the future generations of Neneng's to succeed.

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Oct 17, 2017
Moving On After Dropping Out

By Greg Stretton | project leader

A new hope for Singgih.

"What happened in the past is in the past. The important thing now is how to make the present meaningful and how we can be useful in the future."

His name is Singgih. Usually called Bayu. He is a waiter in 99 Restaurant, Grand Indonesia, Jakarta. He has been a waiter for five years. "Maybe if I did not know Rumah Belajar Duri Kepa, I’d still be unemployed or working as a red brick maker," he said with a laugh.

His features showed his above-average intelligence. Although quite smart, he had been unemployed as well as working as a red brick maker; all because Bayu had a bad record as a teenager. "I was expelled from school," Bayu recalled. "At that time, I was still attending 4 Ambarawa Junior High School. I admitted I often skipped classes, because I was having too much fun playing play station.(Come on, we've all been there) I was addicted. In a week, at most, I went in for two days. As a result, I was expelled from school," he said. In Ambarawa, Bayu lived with his now deceased grandfather and grandmother, who at the time did not seem too strict in watching over their grandson. After he stopped going to school, Bayu spent his days aimlessly.

"I saved my salary and I gave it to the parents."

He most often played with his friends. He was unemployed for about 6-7 months. "After a while, I was not comfortable being unemployed," Bayu said. "Finally, I decided to join my brother, becoming a red brick maker," he continued.

Learning About Rumah Belajar

Which parents are willing for their children to be a red brick maker? Budiono (father) who knew his son no longer went to school in Ambarawa, immediately moved Bayu back to Jakarta. He was disappointed to see his son's condition. "My dad wanted me to go to school. So once I returned to Jakarta and gathered with my family, Dad went around to find me a school," Bayu said. "Evidently, finding a school for me was not easy. Maybe because I was expelled from school in the past," he recalled. Budiono worked as a courier. He wanted his son to be educated. Not giving up, he went to several schools. Until one day, while delivering goods in the area of Duri Kepa, Budiono saw Rumah Belajar Duri Kepa, which was managed by Yayasan Cinta Anak Bangsa (YCAB) Foundation. Soon, he was inquiring for information about Rumah Belajar. Once he learned more about Rumah Belajar, Budiono signed Bayu up for school. Not wanting to disappoint his father, Bayu obeyed his father's request.

Because he had no junior high school diploma, Bayu must take Package B. Bayu really liked studying in Rumah Belajar Duri Kepa. He felt comfortable there. Not satisfied with the Package B diploma, Bayu also continued to the next level, which was high school until he graduated. While studying, he gained new skills by taking computer and English courses. It was not known why Bayu seemed to be so eager learning in Rumah Belajar; must be because of the interesting teaching system, or because it was the right school. Although he finally received his Package C diploma, he still took another course. "I took the hospitality course from Bina Nusantara (University) which was once a week," said Bayu.

This hospitality course brought him to an internship at PT Sejahtera Eka Mandiri, which then placed Bayu in its 99 Restaurant. This is the way his life is. After holding the hospitality certificate from Bina Nusantara, Bayu then started his career as an employee in 99 Restaurant in 2011. "My job at that time was just helping, including lifting dishes and dirty glasses," Bayu explained.

However, over time, perseverance and work ethics shown by Bayu managed to reward him a promotion as a waiter. "I feel at home and happy to work here, especially since I've had the opportunity to learn to make coffee," Bayu added. "But, unfortunately until now there has been no opportunity to become a barista. And I really want to be a barista. Hopefully my dream can be realized someday," he continued hopefully.

While waiting for that opportunity to come, Bayu tried to work as well as possible. "At least I hope to be promoted to be a senior waiter here, because I like my co-workers and the work environment," Bayu explained. "Moreover, by working here, I can help my parents, save up, and buy two motorcycles," he said proudly.

With the achievements that have been obtained, Bayu feels very grateful for his life at this time. "All my life I will never forget the services of YCAB. For that, I thank all the teachers in Rumah Belajar and Mrs. Veronica. If I did not go to school in Rumah Belajar, I couldn’t possibly get the job that I have right now. Besides, I was expelled from school in the past. Who wants to accept someone with a bad record?" Bayu said. YCAB had a special place in Bayu’s heart. "I've been to Australia to raise funds for YCAB," said the man who was skillful in percussion, with a cheerful expression. "Until now I did not know the reason why I could be selected to go abroad," said Bayu. "Maybe because of my exciting life story? Or maybe it is because people are curious about my experiences, who can work when I only have a Package C diploma? I do not know. What’s certain was, I could go abroad, again thanks to YCAB. I will never forget YCAB," he promised.

If I didn’t find out about Rumah Belajar, perhaps I’d still be a red brick maker even now.

Help us to help more people like Bayu, he is on a good road through life now thanks to a second chance, Please set up a monthly donation to YCAB Foundation through GG, You will make a massive difference in the lives of the underprivilaged. Join with us an become a, #angel of change

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Oct 9, 2017
Self Transformation

By Greg Stretton | project leader

Self Transformation

The story of Rizal.

A young man who dropped out of school can become a teacher. How can this be? Rizal is living proof.

Rizal was still in the first year in SMK Al Hamidiyah, Jakarta, when the economic condition of his family was experiencing a difficult time. Kusnadi (his father) worked in a workshop, while Meilinah (his mother) was a vegetable vendor at the local market. At this time the couples youngest child continued his education in a private school in the area of West Jakarta. Always on his mind Rizal imagined the large sum of money that was needed to be provided by his father to keep his younger brother in that school. Rizal did not have the heart. Feeling responsible, as the eldest, he decided to quit his schooling. "I have to give in to my brother. I’d feel really bad if he could not stay at his school," he said.

He remembered the times when he had to help his father run a non-permanent workshop at the edge of Jalan Panjang, Kedoya, Jakarta. Not having a choice, Rizal worked from morning till night. He also began to harbor his dream of becoming a teacher. Almost every afternoon while working in the workshop, Rizal saw children of his age coming home from school with cheerful faces. "I felt both envious and sad. Why couldn’t I be like them," Rizal questioned in a low tone.

"By learning how to sew, we don’t only become tailors, we can become entrepreneurs and designers."

However, the sense of responsibility surrounded him yet again, so he did not linger on self-pity. He remained working diligently while continuing to seek information about schools at affordable costs. One day the opportunity finally arrived. A neighbor gave him some information about Rumah Belajar (RB) in Duri Kepa, managed by Yayasan Cinta Anak Bangsa (YCAB). Rizal was very happy to hear about Rumah Belajar.

Without delay, he immediately went to Rumah Belajar Duri Kepa. "I did some tests on some subjects, and the result suggested that I should enroll into grade 3," said Rizal. "I wondered too, because I dropped out of grade 1. Was it because I was 17 years old?" He added with a smile. Rumah Belajar was not a public school, but Rizal was still grateful, because the cost was very affordable.(1Dollar a month) He felt lucky, for paying so little, he could go to a school with complete facilities. The lecturers also always motivated students to move forward. Mr. Anton was one of his favorite teachers. Thanks to the encouragement of the teachers, besides attending school, Rizal also attended computer training, English, and sewing.

"Teaching has become my calling. Teaching also helps me stay young.”

He didn’t take his interest in sewing so seriously at first. "Because a lot of friends participated, I also wanted to learn," he said. But he soon found that it gave him new insights. Sewing lessons started with making bag designs. And that's when Rizal found a new interest. The sewing class opened the door to the design world that he loved. Rizal liked to try to make the bags that he imagined and designed. Eventually,through hard work and practise he became so good at making bags, he started accepting special orders. "I could earn some money while studying, so I was not burdening my parents," he said proudly.

Provision for Work.

After graduating grade 3 in Rumah Belajar in 2011, Rizal helped his friend open a sewing business. He became a business partner of the friend who recieved a capital loan from YCAB. But, after joining for eight months, Rizal opted out, because he had not found his true identity. He then worked in a manufacturing company located in Cipadu, Tangerang.

According to the agreement, Rizal was hired as a sewing machine operator to make bags. But in reality, the work he did was not just that. "I was doing so many things. From working on designs, cutting materials, gluing, drawing on materials, and sewing until finally one bag was made," said Rizal. Although he was not too happy, but he survived three years in the garment manufacturing company, because he didn’t have any other job offers to take.

Fortunately, God's plan always happens at the right time. When he was feeling overwhelmed with manufacturing work, Rizal was informed about a D1 college scholarship from YCAB. Rushing, he visited Rumah Belajar, with the intention to find complete information about the scholarship. In Rumah Belajar, he saw a former teacher, Mr. Purwanto. Instead of inquiring more about the scholarship, Purwanto offered Rizal a job to be an assistant in Rumah Jahit.(Sewing House) "I replaced Pak Purwanto as a trainer in Rumah Jahit because he was transferred to Pekalongan to manage Rumah Batik," (Batik house) Rizal said. He was touched. How could he not? In the past, many years ago, Rizal had aspired to become a teacher. Dreams that he had buried because he thought that it was impossible to become a teacher without a degree in education. But now, it turns out, he can teach, even without a college degree.

Calling in Life

Rizal began as a sewing trainer in 2014. He does not only teach YCAB students, but also teaches general students. In Rumah Belajar,(Learning house) sewing materials and equipment are available for free. After being a lecturer for two years, Rizal expresses concerns, seeing many students who feel too proud to learn how to sew. "They think, by studying in Rumah Jahit, the opportunities that they will have later is just working as a tailor. When all the while they can become entrepreneurs. They can also become designers. It's our job to explain," Rizal declared.

Today, Rizal still enjoys being a teacher. "Teaching has become a calling. Teaching can also keep me young," he said. Once, he taught a male student who attended a private vocational school majoring in automotive. Rizal succeeded in encouraging him to learn how to sew. In fact, the young man even opened his own sewing business.

"Don’t feel too proud to learn how to sew"

From his income as a teacher, Rizal prioritizes his hard work to help his parents. Furthermore, he can still save up some money. And until now, he still receives special orders to make bags, including from the owner of the manufacturing company where he once worked! As a result, his income has also doubled. However, Rizal does not seem to want to stop. "I want to learn to draw anime. I've seen drawing courses for it on the Internet, but it's expensive. So I,ve had to postpone it for a while," as he closed the conversation with a smile and a cheeky grin.

Donate today and help us to help the many more Rizal's in this world, The 1 Dollar a month cost is heavily subsidised and we need good people like you to keep on giving so we can keep on teaching. Give a little, give a lot...but please give.

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