As a young girl, it is not easy to make your voice heard and your worth recognized. Cultural beliefs, traditional perceptions and attitudes convey stereotypes telling girls they cannot achieve certain things because of their gender, age or  background. Yet, when girls are given the opportunity to build up their skills and confidence, to be their authentic self and express themselves, this is the whole community that benefits: the social fabric is more connected, resilient and inclusive.

Seli, from Batam City, is a 16-year-old girl that has learned to believe in herself and her abilities. Growing up in an environment  that that did not fully support her potential, she used to be very shy and quiet. By joining the Batam activities, she started to build her self-esteem and confidence, and realized that with the right knowledge and support, she could overcome any challenge. Through workshops, sports and artistic activities, she was given opportunities to express her opinions, cultivate her talent and potential. As she participated in the Gembala Baik program over 3 years, she gained a deeper understanding of children’s rights and gender equality, becoming a fierce advocate for children to be treated equally, no matter their gender: 

Before joining the Batam activities, I only understood children’s rights as the right to play, and the right to receive love from parents. For 3 years I participated in Gembala Baik activities and realized children must receive their rights from various parties, including parents, teachers, government, religious leaders, and others.

While building up her knowledge and social skills, she started serving as a facilitator, leading discussions with teenagers and parents in Kampung Air. She challenged gender stereotypes and expectations and helped shift mindsets around what girls can achieve. As a passionate dancer, she was also offered the opportunity to express her talent during the International Day of the Girl, an international event hosted by youth advocates and adults from Good Shepherd Schools and social services in Asia Pacific – something she would have never thought of being able to do before.

Alongside her friend Rio, 15 year old, they established the BEKALI forum, a space of open dialogue and growth where teenagers are encouraged to express their talents, their opinions and build their self-assurance. In this peer-led platform, participants learn not just about their rights, but also about life skills and self-worth.

I was not a confiden person, Rio admits. But in the BEKALI group forum, I was taught to believe in myself and became more self-assured. The change I experienced is that I learn to do various household chores such as sweeping, mopping, washing dishes, and cooking, I also became more confident in becoming a facilitator for teenagers in my community.

Together, Rio and Seli are doing an amazing work in raising awareness about children’s rights and responsibilities, and gender equality. They have understood the importance of making the youth aware of their talents and potential and are committed to building gender equitable futures for all children. Through their action, Batam is becoming a better place, more inclusive and respectful, where every child – no matter his or her gender- can freely express their opinion, talent and potential.