NEWSLETTER special edition | vol.5 no.2 | july 2012 message from wadah patron

CONTENTS

3 Message from the Wadah Patron Dear Readers and Friends, 4 From the Editor’s Desk On March 29 to 31, 2012, Wadah Global Gathering (WGG 2012) convened an unprecedented array of luminaries and heroes in the field of social work. Aptly named a Gathering of like- 5 Cover Story: STOMP FOR CHANGE The Third in a Series by Daisy Hadmoko and Jun Ferreros minded individuals and kindred spirits, it was more like a family reunion than anything else. Everyone felt that they knew each other, although for many, it was only their first Spotlight on WGG Nights time to meet. Guests and participants were one in saying that they had not experienced an 17 Welcome Dinner atmosphere as warm as that of a Wadah Gathering. This special edition of Wadah Newsletter covers all of WGG 2012 proceedings, highlights and 18 Cultural Night even its sidelights. 20 Ubud As WGG showcased the truth and reality of life for the least, the lost and the last around 22 WGG 2012 Photo Album the globe, we continue to encourage everyone to walk the talk and not to be contented with just knowing that such problems exist. Even the littlest and simplest things can create 24 Voices a huge impact and make a difference in the life of a person in need. Hence, we enjoin everyone to open the doors of their hearts to see what the world needs us to see and to 25 As I Lived It by Jocelyn Altwegg witness the changes in the lives of the underprivileged as we go on our own journeys.

28 Friends of Wadah by Joan Fulton After less than five wonderful years when Wadah was launched by some caring women, 30 giving hope for women and their families: today Wadah has started reaping what it has sown My Takeaway by Linda Linsmayer and planted. Wadah thus morphed from a place for women into a place—a wadah—for 32 Miracles for the Next Generation by Fr. Rocky Evangelista members of a community. “People who belong to a community” translates to “Warga” in Bahasa Indonesia, thus Wadah’s brand is “Warga dengan Harapan” or “People in the 36 A Neophyte No More by Ian Rose community with Hope.” Today, Wadah stands tall with its new motto, “From women, by the community, for all!” 38 Tributes To all those who attended WGG 2012, your presence meant the world to me and to the 39 Passionate Voices by Paul Lemaistre Wadah family. You have once again proven us right, that if we are bound by one goal and 40 objective, we can make the impossible possible. As we carry our responsibilities as one, WGG—An Eye Opener by Christophe Burckhard the heavy load on our shoulders becomes a feather, allowing us to soar high amidst all 41 Stomping our Hearts Open by Robin Lim difficulties and challenges. To all WGG speakers and panelists, thank you very much for being a part of our Gathering, for 42 A Newfound Family Member in Wadah Foundation by Anuradha Koirala sharing and giving your time, expertise, experiences and for showing that you truly care. 44 Combating Poverty and Human Trafficking Through a Solid Network by Didit Tumakaka Once again from the bottom of my heart, I raise a prayer to Almighty God for sending 46 A Different Kind of Bali Experience by Rio Chipeco-Manotoc you to me and for having you all by my side all this while, to celebrate love, and humanity in humility. 48 Sharing, Put into Action! by Cecille Ong 52 Wadah Gatherings 1,2,3 by Tina Ferreros 54 Wadah Asia: Spider Webs Uniting by Sara Djojohadikusumo 55 Inbox 60 The WIN-ners Circle ANIE DJOJOHADIKUSUMO 62 From the Flight Deck Founder, Wadah Foundation 63 Making A Difference wadah global gathering 2012 | 3 from the editor’s desk cover story

PATRON Anie Hashim Djojohadikusumo

ADVISORY BOARD Dewi Djarot THIS SPECIAL EDITION OF THE WADAH NEWSLETTER is dedicated to our Janti Notowidigdo readers, friends of Wadah and our valued comrades who were not able Tuti Mashuri to attend the recent Wadah Global Gathering—we have prepared this special publication to bring you up to speed, covering the entire event EXECUTIVE BOARD CHAIRPERSON from the Welcome Dinner in honor of the international guests and Retnaning Tyas speakers on March 28, the sessions on March 29 to 31, Cultural Night on March 29 up to closing ceremonies on March 31. It includes comments SECRETARY and feedback from guests, speakers and participants in our Inbox and Paula Stella Nova Landowero also features contributions from a number of them. What they saw, heard, experienced at the Gathering and what urged them to express TREASURER their thoughts and feelings are found in Voices and Tributes. Yekti P. Suradji It was during WGG 2012 that the Wadah Foundation introduced the ASSISTANT TREASURER new meaning of Wadah. Wadah from the onset was derived from an Jane Maramis acronym “Women and Hope” or in Bahasa Indonesia, “Wanita dan Harapan.” This was further embodied in its motto, “From women, by PUBLISHING and COPYRIGHT women, for all.” Wadah Foundation BY DAISY HADMOKO AND JUN FERREROS Women and Hope was a perfect fit, but as the organization, its scope, EDITOR and scale grew, it soon became clear that Wadah was driven by a Alfredo P. Torno III much greater, much wider force: the people in the communities that HIS TITLE FOR A GATHERING of a philanthropic foundation, “Stomp For Change” could only have come from the young. Philanthropic foundations or organizations are usually managed by it embraced and served. Thus, Wadah now stands for “Warga dengan EDITORIAL BOARD T Harapan” or “People in the Communities with Hope”. people from the old wealthy who oversee trust funds to be distributed for whatever needs. But at the Wadah Susie T. Arroyo Foundation, it was the young who made a concrete decision to take the first step in the fight against human WGG 2012 also made a logical starting point for the soft launch of Jun Ferreros trafficking at the Wadah Global Gathering in Bali from March 28 to 31. the Wadah International Community, as the community that Wadah Christina Ferreros now serves is no longer confined to Indonesia but has spread to its Teresa Maniego It was at the closing of the Gathering, that Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo better known as Sara, aged neighboring countries, where the movements are spearheaded by their Cecille V. Ong 26, announced that the breakaway session of the Youth Movement on the final day had decided to set up respective nationals and residents. Please see pages 60 and 61 for a its own foundation called “Parinama Asa.” The Foundation would strengthen the fight against human quick glance at Wadah’s sphere of influence. The Wadah International GRAPHIC DESIGN trafficking through posters with a powerful message, in malls, movie theatres, educational centers, in Network, or WIN, a collaborative system some of whose members were Annelyn F. Borromeo villages and other public places with the message: Berani Bayar Berapa? How much would you pay (for a present at the Gathering, spans beyond and across borders. This, too, girl)? The message would also be spread through Wadah’s network in Asia to fight human trafficking and is our wake-up call to stop whining and start moving into the WIN’ners already there are other partners of Wadah in the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore and India. They were circle. Yayasan WADAH Titian Harapan amongst the over 200 participants attending this Wadah Global Gathering held at the Ayana Resort and Not having been with us in Bali doesn’t mean you can’t commit to (WADAH Foundation) Spa Bali. making a difference. Start now. MidPlaza 2 Level 2 Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 10-11 Sara, whose mother, Anie Hashim Djojohadikusumo is the founder/patron of the Wadah Foundation aspiring to empower economically disadvantaged women to shape a better future for their families since Jakarta 10220 Indonesia 2007, has now jumped in to do her part. Tel: +62 21 570 7789 Fax: +62 21 570 7630 Sara’s life was changed after attending the Hillsong Conference Europe in London in 2009, with some 6,000 [email protected] other youths. She was shocked at what she learned at The A21 Campaign abolishing injustice in the 21st www.wadahfoundation.or.id century: That slavery is greater than ever, that 75 to 80% of human trafficking is for sex, that 30,000 die each year from abuse, disease, torture and neglect while being trafficked and 80% are under 24 and some even as

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initiative, creativity, and fulfillment as the victims began to rebuild their lives. The strategy, he maintained, promotes capacity building, builds unity and cooperation, increases the standard of living through personal or collective efforts in the community and most of all, because it emphasizes the full participation of members in the community, it empowers women as they now have a stake in the development of their community.

The benefits of this strategy may be the answer to the complex management problems that Indonesia faces, looking after 237 million people made up of 500 ethnic groups, speaking 350 languages and dialects and spread over 17,000 islands. Indonesia’s previous “experiments” have resulted mostly in waste, inappropriate interventions, and widened the gap between the rich and the poor.

“A very strong desire for change would not materialize if we only wait for our leaders or ‘other’ people to do the change. Changes can only be made if we do it ourselves, if we do it with our communities or by ordinary people. “Stop building fences, young as 6. Worse, girls live in appalling conditions and having to serve 40 men a day start building bridges.” for sex! That Human Trafficking is the No. 2 crime in the world and a US$12 billion When we join forces with other communities with a very strong will, when we act Sara Djojohadikusumo industry. together and do things that we want to be realized, that is the beginning of change.

But we get ahead of ourselves! It is not necessary to make a very sophisticated concept that will end up only in a dream and never be realized. It is better to make small changes that are regularly or Sara’s impassioned plea to Stomp for Change was embedded as well in her frequently replicated which involve many people. This allows them to feel how great the introduction on Day 1 which set the stage for the program. And what a program: change is, change that brings improvement not just for themselves, but most especially a line-up of individuals who have worked selflessly within unsung organizations, for people who are in need. facilitating change, looking for new ways to help rebuild the world, never asking for personal riches or reward. We are happy because we can help the needy people happy. We are happy because changes come from ourselves.”—Dr. Imam Prasodjo FOLLOW THE FOOTSTEPS Over two and a half days, participants followed the footsteps of heroes—including The next speaker, Datuk Dr. Raj Abdul Karim, who has devoted her life to promoting four CNN Heroes, champions, academicians, authors, philanthropists, social gender equality and women empowerment in her native Malaysia and in South Asia, workers, volunteers—as they shared their stories and set the stage for a discussion of talked about woman empowerment as a Road to Life. how empowerment of women can alleviate poverty, reduce illiteracy and arrest the trafficking of helpless and unsuspecting women and children into modern day slavery. Discrimination against girls and women in the developing world is a heartbreaking reality, resulting in millions of individual tragedies and accounting for the staggering “Stomp for Change” called for a global movement of outrage against an increasingly number of girls who have simply vanished from the population. unfair and unsustainable society, and hoped to rewire our practices and mindsets to achieve greater convergence as, let’s face it, people have become so inward-looking Dr. Raj stressed the need for education to empower women and motivate them. She [Top] Jenifer Gilio and Anuradha Koirala (partly hidden) that they are unable to acknowledge the world’s problems, let alone tackle them. said it enabled them to seek help, advice, assistance and participate in public and [Middle] Wadah Arsari kids and staff community life. It also gave them access to employment, information, training and [Above] Front row, from left: Erlina Christiana, Esther DAY 1 skills development, credit facilities and communication and technology—particularly, Gloria Naritha, Daisy Hadmoko, Ida Sudoyo; Back row: Didit EMPOWERING WOMEN the use of mobile phones. Tumakaka, Myi Low, Suriya Veeranathan, Lim Choo Hin At the Plenary Session of Stomp against Poverty, Imam B. Prasodjo, Ph.D., sociologist and founder of the Nurani Dunia Foundation, an Indonesian non-government “Empowering women takes them off the vicious cycle of poverty, ill health and organization (NGO) helping disaster victims, told the gathering that a paradigm vulnerability so that they are not deceived, cheated and exploited and become victims shift from government’s “Centralistic Approach” to Community Participatory of domestic violence, human trafficking and forced labour,” she added. Development is needed to foster advancement. Education is the tool that helps break the pattern of gender discrimination and brings Drawing on examples in the earthquake-devastated areas of West Sumatra and Aceh, lasting change for women in developing countries. The longer a girl is able to stay in he demonstrated how this community participatory strategy encouraged dignity, school, the greater her chances to pursue worthwhile employment, higher education,

6 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 7 STOMPING FOR CHANGE (from left): Robin Lim, Retnaning Tyas, Anuradha Koirala, Ibu Anie, Efren Peñaflorida (partly hidden), Ron Muller, Bishwo Rad Khadka

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“Love learning for it will love you back.” efren peñaflorida

“I believe that education and love for learning is a life-changing thing. If kids would “Educated women are realize it, they can change their world. As citizens, we have the responsibility to choose essential to ending how we can bring education to a lot of children. I believe that whatever decision or gender bias.” choices we make now will define our tomorrow. And the responsibility that you choose to take now will add one more spark, one more light, one more beacon of hope lighting Dr. Raj abdul karim and a life without the hazards of extreme poverty. Women who have had schooling an entire sea of desperation, so let’s STOMP for Change.” —Efren Peñaflorida are more likely to get married later, survive childbirth, have fewer and healthier children, and make sure their own children complete school. They also understand Murti Bunanta, Ph.D., founder and president of The Society for the Advancement hygiene and nutrition better and are more likely to prevent disease by visiting health of Children’s Literature, brought a light touch to the Gathering as she read children’s care facilities. Even bigger changes become possible as girls’ education becomes the stories and acted them out with finger puppets. cultural norm. Women can’t defend themselves against physical and sexual abuse until they have the authority to speak against it without fear. Knowledge gives that Dr. Bunanta is continuing her research, finding new stories with gender issues, and authority. attending storytelling festivals where there can be an international exchange of stories. Storytelling festivals, she says, blends culture, theatre, arts, dance and music, “This meeting of Global gathering for stomp for change is very timely and important and gender issues can be taught in entertaining ways. because women today all over the world especially in the developing countries need to be empowered. They need to be educated, they need to be enlightened, they need to be “When I was young, I didn’t have any ambition to become a children’s literature equipped with skills and confidence to be able to become the person that they are, and specialist or a storyteller. I just live my life. Thank God I had a good life and I wanted for them to be empowered is important because only by empowering themselves and to share it, to share my knowledge with other people. If you have something, do not their families can they empower their communities.”—Dr. Raj Abdul Karim keep it to yourself.” —Dr. Murti Bunanta

Rio Manotoc of the Philippines spoke movingly about how she herself had National Director of SOS Villages Indonesia Gregor Hadi Nitihardjo saw poverty [Top left] Peggy Suhardi been empowered by a personal tragedy and was, in turn, able to empower other continuing in Indonesia and emphasized the need for improved children’s education. [Middle] Efren Peñaflorida women. Co-founder of the Switch to Save movement which helps and supports other While there was a 97% enrollment in elementary school, many drop out in middle school. [2nd from top] Dr. Murti Bunanta and TJ Manotoc foundations, her dream is to help women become self-sufficient in attaining their He wants to see changes that will enable children to achieve higher levels of education. [Above] From left: Budi Soehardi, Efren Peñaflorida, goals. Robin Lim, Ibu Anie, Anuradha Koirala, Bishwo Ram Khadka SOS runs eight children’s villages spread throughout Indonesia and its SOS Family ILLITERACY REDUCTION Strengthening Programmes are active in many other areas. In this programme, CNN Hero of the Year 2009 Efren Peñaflorida rose from the slums of Cavite in the children remain with their families but have access to schools and the families are Philippines and with the help of Bonn Manalaysay, his mentor, returned to school strengthened economically to support them. after dropping out and, in 2007, started the Pushcart Classroom. Bringing these pushcarts to the urban poor, “Kuya” F (older brother Ef) also conducted street Agus Priyono Ph.D. shocked the audience when he told them that he was one of 21 education and community projects which gained him recognition as a CNN Hero. brothers and sisters and he himself was a father of eight. “All of us are teachers as In 2010, he was awarded one of Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines by education is important,” he stressed. Philippine President Benigno C. Aquino III. As the Rector of Institut Sains dan Teknologi Nasional (ISTN), Dr. Priyono believes He plans to introduce these pushcart classrooms in Indonesia for the poor through in technically-based education. He is a researcher of electronic engineering and his Wadah Foundation. current project is “Tactical Mobile Robot” under the auspices of ISTN Jakarta. He holds various positions in institutes in Indonesia.

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“It’s part of the way that we really believe that bringing people gently into the world without and re-purposed their own house into an orphanage. It was not just a home but also trauma is going to build peace for this world, one a school with classrooms, where children learn farming, handicraft and other skills. He said that the children at the Roslin House live like a family, sharing everything. baby, one mother, one family at a time.” robin lim A library from the Rotary Foundation made it also popular with other children in THE HEROES’ WELCOME the community. Midwife Robin Lim, CNN Hero of the Year 2011, founded Yayasan Bumi Sehat (Healthy Earth Foundation) in 2003, with clinics in Bali and Aceh which offer pre- In October 2007, Mr Soehardi worried about financing the orphanage when he natal care, birthing services and medical aid to combat high maternal and infant retired. In addition,Timor island is one of the driest and poorest provinces in mortality rates. Indonesia. So he bought pumps and a generator and dug an artesian well and with this came irrigation that led to farming. In April 2008, they became self-sufficient in She has saved thousands of mothers and babies who come to her clinics for pre- and rice and vegetables and fruits. post-natal care and delivery. Because the birth of a girl places a severe strain on a family’s resources, sons are in greater demand, and Bumi Sehat sets out to teach With 45 children at the orphanage (at one time there were 14 infants), they managed [This page, clockwise from above] families to love their babies, regardless of gender. (Ultrasound is discouraged to with the older children helping to look after the young. The eldest is now in medical “It is a blessing to do Deys Chong and Lim Choo Hin; Dr. Agus Priyono; Parade of prevent sex-selective abortions, infanticide and the neglect of girl children.) You will college. something for others.” Flags; Wadah Arsari kids never see at childbirth, the midwife announcing “It’s a boy” or “It’s a girl” so that the [Opposite page] (Front row) Dr. Pardis Madhavi, Ibu Capt. Budi Soehardi family is allowed to fall in love with the baby before they know: boy or girl. Besides Roslin House, the Soehardis have a health project to prevent malaria and TB Anie, John Kerr, Wesley Nieman (Back row) Dr. Bambang and help neighboring farmers to enhance the production of their crops. Purnomo Hediono, Dr. Purnawan Hardiyanto, Tina Ferreros, She proclaimed that “981 mothers will die today at the prime of their lives because Dr. Dan Dizon, Babli Kalha, Susie Arroyo, Dr. Djohan they are poor” and have no access to medical care. They die because they are not in “I am lucky to be married to a powerful wife.” —Budi Soehardi [Far right] Belinda Fong, Karina de Vega, Etty Herawati the care of a skilled midwife. They die because if they go to the hospital and there is some risk and they cannot pay, they cannot take their baby home, so when “…we talk Another hero was found in the person of Karina de Vega. Despite her harrowing fate about how we need to take care of women, we need to think about what happens to and experience after surviving her ordeal in the hands of those who trafficked her, them when they are at their most vulnerable.” she founded Yayasan Gita Eklesia in 2000 to accommodate orphans from strife-torn areas in Ambon and Kalimantan into a family-like environment in Ambarawa in Ms. Lim, who is a US citizen of half-Filipino parentage, and a mother of eight, shared Central Java and in Papua. She also works with inmates in Nusakambangan prison in how they do things with love, kindness and care in their Bumi Sehat clinics. an attempt to educate and rehabilitate them.

“Education starts from conception. It does not start in school. It starts from the mothers Kesz Valdez, the youngest hero of WGG 2012, was 6 years old when he was rescued when they are conceived. We are conceived in love”. —Robin Lim by Club 8586 of Bonn Manalaysay, Efren Peñaflorida’s mentor. Born in the slums of Cavite City, Philippines, by age 4 he was forced to beg and scavenge to support Budi Soehardi, a captain pilot with 13 years’ service with Singapore Airlines, nine his family. On days he was unable to bring home his meager earnings, his father years with Garuda Indonesia and 13 years with Korean Air, was one of the 10 CNN would beat him mercilessly. Despite this horrific childhood, he founded the Caring Heroes of 2009, recognised for establishing an orphanage in Kupang, Timor, Eastern Children group which teaches proper hygiene to other street children. Now 13, Kesz Indonesia, after seeing the plight of abandoned babies and children in East Timor proves that one can never be too young nor too destitute to care. refugee camps in 1999. With his wife, Peggy, and using their own money, they built

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DAY 2 HUMAN TRAFFICKING Wadah was introduced to the Fight against Human Trafficking at its 2nd Gathering in Manila in 2010 by Cecilia Flores-Oebanda, founder/president of the Visayan Forum Foundation in the Philippines.

In Bali, Wadah was further inspired by Anuradha Koirala, founder and chairperson of Maiti Nepal who not only gave a broader insight into this crime but provided a more holistic approach to fight against it. One who seemed to be a soft-spoken “Clean your backyards to clean your country!” woman, her hands joined together and head bowed in Namaskar, but once she got on anuradha koirala the subject, her strength became obvious in her crusade against abuse, exploitation, neglect and violence of children, girls and women since 1993. She urged caution as human trafficking is run by powerful organizations. “It is risky to touch,” she warned, “with big money involved. Start small. The survivors do not Mrs. Koirala gave shocking statistics of this crime in Nepal. More than 12,000 trust anyone and it takes time to recover their pride.” children and women aged 7 to 24 are exploited in brothels in India and trafficked domestically and overseas. Besides internal trafficking, she said there was traffic Also from Indonesia was Imelda Salajan Reynolds, formerly a BBC journalist and “Human trafficking is across borders to India and new destinations in the Middle East and China. now a moviemaker. Working with OnTrackMedia Indonesia (OTMI) she specializes not only about poverty.” in public awareness campaigns and media consultancy. OTMI was established in karina de vega Not only has Maiti (meaning Mother’s Home in Nepali) set up prevention and 2005 to meet the needs of an anti-human trafficking public awareness campaign, transit homes, hospices, child prevention centers, rehabilitation centers but also developing a website www.stoptrafficking.org and a video-based training curriculum 14 interception points at border areas where survivors are placed to help identify dispersed through the scout movement. traffickers. She organizes preventive activities, education, advocacy, rescue, recovery and repatriation. As of 2011, Maiti has rescued 18,000 girls and has reached out to OTMI is committed to educating the public about dangers and problems that 30% of the population through awareness-raising. It was also responsible for the threaten lives, livelihoods and environment through video, TV and radio broadcasts. prosecution of 555 cases, the arrest of 702 and conviction of 692. THE GLOBAL SCENE Mrs. Koirala urged that Human Trafficking could be stopped at the lowest level of A more exacting methodological approach separating human trafficking from forced [Top left] Imelda Salajan, Anuradha Koirala, Dr. Pardis government. “In Nepal, a girl at 14 gets citizenship papers at village level and with labour and migration was presented by Dr. Pardis Madhavi, associate professor of Madhavi, Karina de Vega, Sary Latief [Top] Dr. Madhavi that can get a passport at 16. It can be controlled at this low level and at immigration Anthropology and Gender and Women’s studies at Pomona College, California. with SOS Villages Indonesia kids [Above] Dewi Djarot where some are issued fake passports,” she explained. A first step, she urged, was to and Adila Suwarno halt licenses given to manpower agents. She also raised the dangers in jails where She defined trafficking as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring or police often rape the girls who are caught or seek refuge. receipt of persons, by means of threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of abuse of power, or the giving or receiving of An English teacher, Mrs. Koirala, who was an abused wife herself, founded Maiti payments or benefits to achieve the consent of another person, for the purpose of Nepal in 1993 in Kathmandu and has received 30 national and international awards exploitation. and was selected CNN Hero of the Year in 2010. She was also appointed a state minister to honour her contributions. A US-born and raised Iranian she has written several books, the latest: Gridlock: Labour, Migration and Human Trafficking in Dubai. “Both men and women should be empowered because it is necessary now to fight evils that come across us. And especially the social issues which are very important now and Aaron Cohen, human rights activist and author, has worked in different parts of which have been discarded, disregarded, now we have to take it up and fight to make the world, in the US, Darfur, Cambodia and Burma in retrieving victims of human this world a better place to live for, for the coming generation.” —Anuradha Koirala trafficking. Working undercover he has trained military and law enforcement personnel to uncover the subterfuge of slavery and prosecute cases of human IN INDONESIA trafficking. The Indonesian Experience of Human Trafficking was the real-life story of Karina de Vega, herself a survivor. A graduate of Gajah Mada University, she was taken into At the Gathering, the 6 foot 4 inches tall Cohen recounted the case of a 13-year old captivity while looking for a friend in Papua and shipped to the Middle East from girl in Cambodia working in a bar, rescued and returned to school. After graduating where she escaped. (She would not reveal specific places nor time.) however, she returned to her original profession and died of HIV-AIDS. He is determined to push through legislation to criminalize human trafficking worldwide. “Ignorance makes you vulnerable.” imelda salajan 14 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah: stomp for change | 15 Spotlight Tori Bellino

Panelist Datuk Dr. Raj Abdul Karim of Malaysia, who spoke the previous day at the Tuloy Foundation delegates with Sara, Aryo, Pak Hashim, and Ibu Anie Session on Women Empowerment, said human trafficking was a “hidden problem” in Malaysia. The problem came to a head when irrefutable evidence was laid before the police. Appointed Regional Director of the Planned Parenthood Federation SE Asia and Oceania in 1999 and Commissioner of the National Human Rights Commission in 2002, she was instrumental in establishing the National Council for Anti-Human Trafficking Act in 2002.

She recommended that the next STOMP FOR CHANGE should also address issues involving Child Brides and Early Pregnancies. Rates of maternal deaths are highest among adolescent girls and increase with each pregnancy. A teenage mother faces double the risk of spontaneous abortion and has four times the risk of losing her Jocelyn Altwegg and Tuti Masyuri “Our successes fetus or infant. A call must be made for a collaboration on advocacy efforts and for T.S. and Shawna Yap are prison walls. collectively raising awareness of the impact of child marriage. Break them down!” On child brides, traditional perceptions of girls and women, cultural and religious fr. rocky evangelista practices, as well as economic considerations, all help to perpetuate child marriage across South Asia. Millions of girls across the world end up as child brides, despite the practice being outlawed in many countries. There is minimal implementation of the legislation because local law enforcement officers are often unwilling to Hanoman and Wil Hammerle address issues as sensitive as child marriage or be seen as questioning local customs and traditions. There is also little understanding of the harmful impact that child marriage can have on young girls and their wider community.

After the break out sessions, Day 2 closed with a valedictory from Fr. Rocky Welcome Dinner Evangelista of the Tuloy Foundation, whose work with street children has given him tremendous “street cred” with Rotary International who awarded him the It was early evening when speakers and overseas participants from Presidential Service Award and garnered various awards and citations from the 16 countries began to congregate in the garden fronting the beach Philippine Government and the Catholic Bishops Conference. of the Ayana Hotel in Jimbaran, Bali. New as well as familiar faces commingled to the music of Wil and Hanoman Hammerle, and to “There is nothing that happens by chance. Service becomes a style of life or a way impromptu performances by, among others, Anuradha Koirala, CNN of living. It becomes something that you look forward to and it helps you grow. It Hero 2010, who cautioned the audience that it would rain if she sang, energizes you because what you do is not an extra thing that you want to do because yet sing she was urged, and rain it did, indeed. The party very swiftly service is a way of life.” —Fr. Rocky Evangelista decamped to the Ballroom where Alfredo Torno, Emily Marcelo, Sara Djojohadikusumo, Aaron Cohen, and famous Batak chanteuse Murni DAY 3 held forth, until guest of honor Fr. Rocky Evangelista and his party The Wrap-up Session was capped by a succession of presentations on Parinama arrived straight from the airport to deliver their tribute to Pak Hashim Asa, Wadah Asia, the Wadah International Network by Sara and Alfredo that Djojhadikusumo, Ibu Anie and the family. Pak Hashim then gave his culminated in the symbolic “covenant-signing” by the hosts, speakers, resource welcome remarks, adding that the sudden downpour signified a most persons, organizers and participants alike to stomp for change. A long cloth tarp was Participants make their way to the ballroom in the rain. auspicious start for WGG 2012. positioned on the ground outside the conference hall and all dipped their bare feet in pails of paints and literally stomped their commitment to effect change. This sealed Murni Anuradha Koirala and Bishwo Khadka the compact and marked the first day of our being WINners.

The Wadah Global Gathering was attended by participants from 16 countries including the USA, UK, Switzerland, France, Argentina, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Singapore, Spain, China, Iran, Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia. The next Gathering is scheduled for 2014.

—with reporting from Teresa Maniego and Cecille Ong Emily Marcelo 16 | wadah global gathering 2012 [SEATED, FROM LEFT] Dr. Henry Feriadi, Dr. Djohan, [SEATED, FROM LEFT] Jenifer Gilio, Dr. Pardis Madhavi, Robin Lim, Tori Bellino [STANDING] Robby Sukaryanto, Dr. Purnawan Hardiyanto, Ibu Anie, [STANDING] Mark Gilio, Peter Kung, Ibu Anie, Wil Hammerle, Al Torno and Ethel Chalopin Dr. Bambang Hediono Jenny Wysynski Spotlight

[SEATED, FROM LEFT] Ethel Chalopin, Debbie Pappas, Belinda Fong [SEATED, FROM LEFT] Indra Prawoto, Mrs. Burckhard, Sylvie Maengkom [FROM LEFT] Lai Oebanda, Bonn Manalaysay, Kesz Valdez, Robin Lim, Wil Hammerle, [STANDING] Dr. Dan Dizon, Ibu Anie, Abdul and Grace Raof, Joan Fulton, [STANDING] Jun Ferreros, Hadi Nitihardjo, Wesley Nieman, Christophe Burckhard, Efren Peñaflorida, Rio Manotoc Emily Marcelo, Jocelyn Altwegg Adriana

Cultural Night

Staunch Wadah Foundation supporter Margaret Njoo hosted Cultural Night for WGG 2012 participants on March 29 at the Coconut Garden of the Grand Hyatt Bali. Participants donned their national costumes that added glitter and sparkle to an already scintillating evening under the stars. The programme featured the launch of the second and third volumes of the Wadah book trilogy, “Ibu” and “Obor,” with Obor author [SEATED, FROM LEFT] Bianti Djiwandono, Atika Makarim, Karina de Vega Ethel Chalopin in attendance. She presented the completed [STANDING] Sam Siregar, Shanker, Gerry, Adila Suwarno, Mario Viera, [SEATED, FROM LEFT] Babli Kalha, Peggy Benz, Tom Benz [SEATED, FROM LEFT] Evi Manalu, Nina Yusuf, Dini Yusuf Anna Diwan, Ibu Anie, Maryani Lemaistre, Al Torno trilogy, including the first volume “Trotoar,” to Wadah Patron [STANDING] Ibu Anie, Chris Benz, Patrick Benz, Jacqueline Ward [STANDING] Lia Parengkuan, Ibu Anie, Dr. Murti Bunanta, Dina Tuasuun Anie Djojohadikusmo.

The evening ended with a dazzling Rama Sinta performance of children from the SOS Children’s Village in Bali, directed and choreographed by SOS Villages Indonesia mentors and Arsari Sanggar Anak Mandiri Coordinator Sophan Ajie, under the supervision of Sara Djojohadikusumo.

Ibu Anie, Reni, Ophan, Edy, Gono

[SEATED, FROM LEFT] Ida Sudoyo, Ibu Anie Kesz Valdez, Efren Peñaflorida, Bonn Manalaysay, [STANDING] Erlina Christiana, Didit Tumakaka, Shawna and T.S. Yap TJ Manotoc

18 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 19 Anuradha Koirala Spotlight [FROM LEFT] Panggay Afzelius, Kesz Valdez, Efren Peñaflorida, Ed Afzelius

Karim Rabik and Arief Rabik Pak Hashim

[FROM LEFT] Ethel Chalopin, Lisa Cirenza, Ida Sudoyo, Jocelyn Altwegg [FROM LEFT] Karina de Vega, Retnaning Tyas, Etty Herawati, Yuliani Astuti, Evi Manalu, Arya Subamia, Jane Maramis, Lia Parengkuan, Liliek Johan

Linda Linsmayer

Ubud Sara Djojohadikusumo

It couldn’t have been more dramatic. Even the rains stopped. Torches Ibu Anie, Linda Garland Murni and candles heralded the way into the residence of Linda Garland of the Environmental Bamboo Foundation in Ubud, Bali, where Ms. Garland and Wadah Patron Anie Djojohadikusumo held their tribute to WGG2012 guests, all dressed in white for the occasion. Before the evening ended, Ibu Anie invited everyone out on the grassy lawn to gather in a circle as a beacon was ignited. She thanked everyone for taking part in her journey and for being pivotal in the success of WGG 2012. Then and there she announced that the venue of the next Wadah Global Gathering 2014 will be at that very space.

Ian Rose, Shawna Yap, Yap Tek Sing 20 | wadah global gathering 2012 WGG 2012 photo ALBUM

WGG 2012 Album

22 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 23 AS I LIVED IT Voices by JOCELYN ALTWEGG, Australia/switzerland Their voices would not be quelled. Among those compelled to give expression to their feelings were Jocelyn Altwegg, Joan Fulton, Linda Linsmayer, Fr. ROCky evangelista, and Ian Rose. These are their testimonies. Capitalization, exclamation points, punctuation marks, boldface type are all theirs. When sorting all the notes taken on To compete, one has to believe in the spot during the 2012 Gathering, I miracles. Father Rocky reassures her that started to think how I could put all miracles do exist and gives the courage those amazing hours of sharing and to count on them with patience and listening, so it could bring something wisdom. (Alas for me, I nearly fell flat off to those friends who were unable to be my chair sound asleep during the speech. with us. For me, the whole gathering was Nothing to do with « the Rock » purely definitely not only a success but a totally a terrible attack of jet- lag. It would have different experience from the previous been a first for such an experienced events. So, we were curious and learning orator. The importance was Anie lost not all the time. a word!)

For me there were FOUR big moments: The third moment was definitely the intensely-moving SHARING with Ibu First, we were Cleansed…. by the Karina. Horrors exist today in the world. pouring rains during the welcome Suddenly they become stories of our dinner. I knew immediately that we had families and friends. Sometimes we have moved into a true professional world of no way to avoid our fate. The world can media presentation! How Sara, Torno be so beautiful. Sadly, evil has always 3rd and their super team of vibrant youth existed and for some it is a MUST. managed THAT piece of special effects?... Wow! And, they kept on vibrating and We were listening about Today, not about keeping us in there all the days through, the Dark Ages! We have some marvelous BRAVO. Do..., do it again. people out there. Some invisible, some using their notoriety. But all working to Secondly, there was the moment when help others survive and make life worth I watched my extraordinary Ibu Anie, continuing. They need US to be aware who I am so proud to call my friend, as and concerned. They are risking their she listened to her God-sent mentor, lives to make a better world. We cannot Father Rocky. What a perfect name. He ignore this. They have such courage. certainly is a solid rock for her to lean on and find the empowerment she needs The entire room was stunned. I found to continually swim forward against myself listening to the most beautiful the enormous current of sorrows and and tragic love poem, a poem telling tragedies of the world she has stepped about the love for LIFE. « Not asking for into. Anie has realized that to be effective pity only for the right to be proud to be and also protect her heroes, and also alive. « These words were understood in her own family, one must be both brave every language. Love for LIFE! I am a and very wise. However, once a decision dancer and I will dance to your story and has been made, she has to be also very promise not to forget. determined. Our Anie has found her rock of strength. “When others don’t know, it’s hard to understand.”

[Facing Page] Chris “Kesz” Valdez 24 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 25 VOICES

Pray so the traffickers might see the light every move of these monsters and so are Special effects: A true warrior as they have loved ones too! THEIR KIDS! Is that what they want thinking of everything. Legal their parents to be? backups. Experienced agents on the How many have we had to leave behind! terrain acting as spies. Politically strong. These words I am writing are the words, Trafficking...A NECESSITY? Think I interpreted through my ears. So many Prepared to ask for aid for her troop. about our own lifestyles. Not only a things to remember. So many stories. question of poverty, all our kids today We wish some were not for real. Yet, so Results: Frightening. want more NOW and get a bargain price. many fun moments as well and great What is the REAL price? people met. And now she has Anie too! Jocelyn Altwegg, Sara Djojohadikusumo, and Al Torno FORWARD MARCH! MEN? must ALSO take a stand. Virgins Thank you all for including me once The fourth moment for me was the I am quoting wonderful women that « Sometimes we’re not treated fairly but… do not stop AIDS. Nor bring back again for another WADAH Gathering. —Jocelyn Altwegg is a Geneva-based art and moment when we got the power to get could teach western world’s Maternity part of the package! » virility. Take care of your fascinating Indonesia dance enthusiast. up from our “arses” and stand and jump Centers to take less attention to the and amazing Bali. Let no one ruin our and sing together. To use a simple song word «Clinique» and use more the word Who is this “boy”? He was found in Some are as young as 4 years old !!! SEX world through evil and indifference. that has simple words with simple music «Gentleness». We might finally get back a “package …in a city of rubbish. Take TOUR TOURISTS! Why pay dollars Thank you ALL...Let’s hope that the but put together gives us a great moment to the meaning of «Maternity ». Go and care of him. Protect him and give him and ruin lives for what you would be world will listen and that we can say to MOVE… see their work in Ubud. time to grow…. not too fast. Let him see ashamed of doing in your own country. we have tried when we next meet and the world and learn all he can as who Think of your victims they might one day that our Anie’s HEROES, who are also TOGETHER! It can start with one Words all Heroes use: «Change trauma knows… One day he might be « KESZ be in your children’s future, IF they are now our HEROES, will keep safe and person but with the strength of a second into achievement» FOR PRES…IDENT » ! He already has still alive! strong. Thank you for your patience and it becomes…amazing! my vote! excellent English. We will need it again... What would YOU choose from a WHAT TO DO? TALK about this to and again!!! Empowering Women? I realized women voyage round the world or to start an We all want a better easier life. It EVERYONE when they ask if you had are born empowered we just have to orphanage? is easier to sell a child than to work. a great time in Bali. Tell them how Ibu Anie, you have shared the wisdom of realize it! serious a Wadah trip really is. Talk to the wonderful mother that you are and - Welcome home, you are our 48th child! DEBT - A BIG PROBLEM! your children. Tell them to tell THEIR that attitude is a guide for us ALL, take Seems to me now it all started with… FRIENDS. INFORM and WARN them care! I’m so proud to be your friend. FISH? We women can learn to catch a - Suddenly my wife had 14 children – Women…ARE empowered but to be careful and wise. Tell them to fish. Anyone can catch a fish. Men LIKE all aged 12!!! don’t always know it. INFORM talk about Wadah’s world through the General Alert concerning the entire to catch fish. We must all learn to keep THEM. Working as a community. media such as INTERNET - MUSIC southern border Nepal / India. the waters clean to have healthy fish to - Our babies feed themselves at 18 As with a catastrophe, the smallest - CONCERTS. The youth of today has keep US healthy. Feed the MAN. If he is months. Come and see we’ll show effort also brings results. Continue tremendous power. Our role as parents War has been declared by DIDJU ( my happy you will be proud. We are not all you how. the inter-aid and the profits go to is to inform and give them our support. new sister ). good cooks so tell him the world’s best all. Think FISH. THE YOUTH will find ways. If it can’t cooks are MEN. We need men! If he Dream BIG - Start SMALL - DO be stomped out, at least we will know Special weapon: She is so tiny she cooks better than you, let him know you FAST! A hero’s motto «Not prostitutes but PROSTITUTED we can squash it. Someone is watching catches you before you see her! are proud of him. Send the man out with WOMEN » his buddies to catch a bigger fish. This At age 7 he had a dream to time sell it and then we women can get start a foundation “ Caring How to convince parents to educate their on with what we can do best! As long Children”. He brought schooling in a children when they are so poor…? as we don’t go out looking for a bigger pushcart into his city of rubbish. « when fish! Am I a wee too feminist? Forgive I was a kid… » he is now…13 but he is Drugs are a criminal offense so why isn’t me I’m just a woman. still able to be a fun loving kid…when he trafficking…attempted murder? has…time??? « Don’t let the family know the baby will IF YOU’RE NOT READY TO GET be a girl so she will be expected with the “When I feel I want to give up I see the INVOLVED…DON’T TOUCH… love she deserves » faces of my kids!» WOW! PLEASE!

26 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 27 voices FRIENDS OF WADAH by JOAN FULTON, USA/Spain

BELOW IS A BRIEF COLLECTION of words representing some key thoughts and feelings heard during the WGG:

“FRIENDS OF WADAH”

“F”: freedom to choose, family, friends “R”: rewarding, rape (tool of power), real interest “I”: insprirational, influential, interest, intellectual “E”: endless, exceptional, e-learning, education, education, education…. “N”: networking, new friends, no, no, no…. “D”: dignity, divine, doing, dare, made a difference The question then is “has everyone been reached.” We tend to measure being “S”: sharing, same, small step but start!, skills, savings, simple, slavery, see don’t stare “reached” by what action steps people have taken following the WGG, e.g., dinners, documentaries, contributions, setting up similar activities close to home, sending “O”: open your hearts, overwhelming books, etc. What is impossible to measure is the full impact on people. Many people “F”: forest versus trees are timid, silent, insecure, private and just do not share their activities or change of mental attitude or whatever. Some people talk and spread the “gospel of WADAH.” “W”: woman, worldwise, we, why?, why not?, wake up!, wonderful Therefore, I beg to differ and say that everyone was reached in some way. The “way” “A” : activists, all together, awareness=>ACTION! may not be visible or measurable or heard of, but I am sure everyone was reached, “D”: daring, dilema, doing and reached positively and profoundly. The seeds of change start with awareness. “A” : alone. Then, well, germination depends on a lot of factors, different for each person, but “H”: home, heart having seen the WADAH effect on many people, I am confident that everyone has been “reached” and will someday, somehow, be an ambassador of good action to During the WGG the statement was frequently repeated along that lines that “if we “share, care, and give” on behalf of “the least, the lost and the last.” only reach one (or 10 or however many), that is good”. —Joan Fulton is a banker whose successful career took her from the U.S. to Switzerland and This was said in both reference to the people being served in the communities or now Spain. wherever in the world, but also in regard to the participants in the WGG.

I fully agree with the statement of reaching and affecting just one life positively is good and justifies the efforts.

I beg to add a variant in regard to the participants in the WGG. Just by being present shows that all participants in the WGG were affected. They had gone past the stage of awareness and interest and achieved action by being present.

[Opposite page, bottom] Insiwijati Prasetyaningsih, Joan Fulton [This page, top] Front row from left: Joan Fulton, Debbie Pappas, Babli Kalha, Ethel Chalopin, Lai Oebanda, Dewi Djarot. 2nd row: Lisa Cirenza, Ian Rose, Tim Stanton, Belinda Fong [Right] Joan with Abdul Raof Shan

28 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 29 VOICES My Take Away “When the problem is complex, the solution is love.” by linda linsmayer, usa

I DON’T KNOW HOW ANY of you this incredible experience? Don’t let me within ourselves. A very crafty lady that are charged forward to scatter from other first-timers felt, I had no clue what sit here overwhelmed, paralyzed with Anie. Note to self and others, when Anie this special God-ordained gathering. to make of Anie’s cryptic invitation to inaction because there is too much to do does that “Oh I was just a poor peasant What do you do now? I hope and “come with an open heart” meant. All I cannot possibly take on or solve any of girl, with not much formal education pray that rather than give thanks to I know is I love Anie and I love God, these problems. They are too huge my who use simple language bit”...don’t our inspirational Anie with our lips, and I knew they were both coming so I dear Lord, I simply cannot take them all believe her for a minute. Run. But run that we will instead show our thanks “I am only one, but I said YES. But as soon as I said yes, fears on. Then God answered with a thought towards her, follow her, copy her, because with deeds. Action. The problems are am one. I cannot do of self-doubt washed over me. Then I that gave me instant peace. she really knows what she’s doing. So complex. The solution simple. Let us everything but I can do remembered all of the stories I read in thank you Anie for respecting and loving go forth and simply love, however we something. And I will the bible in which people boldly declared When the problem is complex. me enough, loving each of us enough, can, with whatever gifts God gave us, YES. YES Lord. And I got even more to invite to what has truly been a life- wherever we are. Let’s wrap the world in not let what I cannot frightened because I remember one story The solution is simple. changing Global Gathering. Wadah love so God and Anie can untie interfere with what I particularly, the one where an angel the ribbon. can do.” came to Mary and said you bear me a The solution is God. I leave you with one quote, that again child...Oh God, please don’t let me to be Anie already knows, but bear with me Thank you Anie and everyone for pregnant. Then I remembered I’m past God is love. Anie for the rest of us who are slow wrapping me in love. menopause so whew, that’s impossible learners, then I remembered Sarah and became Therefore when the problem is complex, Thank you Anie, thank you God, thank even more frightened...I digress. But I the solution is love. Simply love. “Mine is not to remake myself, rather you everyone here for showing, not had no understanding of what she really to make the absolute best of what God telling me. For allowing me the privilege meant or wanted me to do. All I know That was the common thread I observed made me.” ~Robert Browning and honor of discovering for myself. I is, I showed up as each of you did. We in all of our heroes, while they each am not just called but commanded. The declared YES to Anie, and, dare I say, to brought their unique God-given talents I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do solution is simple. Love. Be the solution. God through Anie. Then she immersed into play and while their efforts are everything but I can do something. And us day after day in these stories, parables, herculean supersized love or love on I will not let what I cannot interfere with —Before Linda Linsmayer moved to her idyllic if you will, from one hero to another. steroid solution (some of our heroes what I can do. island in Florida, she was in charge of creative The parable of earthly knowledge and appear to be using steroids a bit more strategy in a regional advertising agency in secular smarts, the parables about than others...hmm Robin, probably not, As we heard this week, the hour is the U.S. transforming evil to good and through Aaron hmmm...busted!) Seriously, the growing late for so many precious steadfast perseverance, the parable about common thread as I saw it in all of their souls here on earth. My dear friends, people who have literally laid down their solutions was love. we said YES to this invitation, now we entire lives to selflessly serve God and others. Oh wow now I’m really getting Then I realize that friend of mine Anie nervous because I’m just not that smart, knew the answer when she invited us all I have a family so I cannot lay down my here. She knew the answer is love. Then entire current life. There was one hero I got pissed off and thought Anie, dear though I thought I could emulate, Aaron, God, you could have just told us the because I have been working out very answer and not made us all come all this hard. But then I looked at my biceps and way and spared Hashim a lot of money [From top] Linda with Christophe Burckhard and thought well no. So I thought pardon and save Sara, Alfredo and Tina a lot family; Linda Linsmayer and Babli Kalha; (From left) Emily me but since we are all family now I of trouble. Anie, why didn’t you just Marcelo, Tina Ferreros, Linda Linsmayer, Jenny Wysynski, swore to myself, come on God tell me tell us the answer? Then I realized, she Tori Bellino, Ibu Anie, Al Torno why did you invite me here? What am I didn’t just tell us the answer, because she [Right] Babli Kalha, Joan Fulton, John Kerr, Linda suppose to do with this wonderful gift, wanted us to discover it for ourselves Linsmayer, Abdul Raof, Paul Lemaistre

30 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 31 VOICES

Making Miracles for the Next Rather Wadah brought us all together to people changing the world. Recognition I bet there were many times when celebrate our differences, and in doing though, is mostly focused on the they’ve asked themselves WHAT HAVE I Generation so, bring our strengths into one arena achievements, the hurdles they have GOTTEN MYSELF INTO? (Believe me I where each can benefit from the others, already conquered. They recognize the know. After 17 years of working in Tuloy by Fr. Rocky Evangelista, philippines enabling each other to persevere in the pains and the struggles but not as you or Foundation I still ask that of myself every particular good that they are already I know it. Certainly not the anxieties of now and then. I still ask the questions I doing. It is to empower individuals, and where the next meal for the children will asked 17 years ago: where will I get the bring out the best in them, allow each come. Not the raw fear we face as we put money, who do I ask for help. Or simply Before anything, allow me to did not even have jet planes and lightning one to discover their own capacity to do our own bodies in the line of fire. Only throw my hands up in the air and say this congratulate the organizers, the trains or even GPS.” good wherever they are. those who dare, who have dared, know is too much for me. But I never stop.) Djojohadikusumo family, Ibu Anie, these things like an old friend. Bapak Hashim, Sara and their very Then pausing, he looked straight into Let us NEVER make uniformity as a Why? capable organizing committee for a the young man’s eyes and added: “But strategy for success. In fact DIVERSITY Heroes never set out to be heroes. They very successful gathering. that’s the reason why we invented them. can be an enriching asset. Let not our do not conform. And they fight an angry Because there is a sense of restlessness, an Now…what are you doing for the next differences separate us. Instead let us be tide to do a simple enough good: feed the indignation, a sense of urgency coming There is an anecdote that I have been generation?” like the different colors of one rainbow. hungry, teach a child how to read and from somewhere beyond themselves that overusing as of late. A joke told to me by write, speak out for the women, right a will never leave them alone. BECAUSE IT my friend John Kerr. Allow me to share I look around in this assembly and as I Wadah challenges us to appreciate social evil. HAS TO BE DONE. Because something it with you. see Sara and her friends, my friend Ibu without judging, join without invading, MUST be done and someone has to do it. Anie and Bapak Hashim, and all their and invite with no demands. At one point or another, they may have And because the human spirit will allow A promising young professional armed friends, I can honestly declare, here is even been suspected of being a little us to do nothing less. with an iphone, a tablet and other an assembly of people doing everything More than just an arena of diversity, cuckoo, insane, crazy. Still with all their gadgetty wanted to prove his superiority they can for the next generation. Wadah is also offering each one of us a vulnerability and weaknesses and fear, When service becomes a style of life or over his more “mature” and perhaps less home. We have CNN Heroes here. In they set foot outside their comfort zone way of living, it becomes something that tech-savvy colleagues. Turning on one of Through this series of Wadah Gatherings CNN’s own definition, these are everyday to reach out a hand to another. you look forward to and it helps you the more dignified-looking gentlemen - this family is literally gathering people and by this I mean that gentleman toting from all over the world in one place to the non 3G, non-wifi capable, non- freely exchange stories. And although it touchscreen cellular phone – told him in is a learning and enriching experience, a loud voice: it is never meant to be instructional as if one is better than another. Wadah “You know, it is really not surprising Gatherings allow us to talk to each other that there is such a thing as a generation in the level of the spirit, by that I mean gap. You see, my generation has literally commitment, mission, and inspiration. limitless knowledge at our fingertips By doing so, we are enabling each other, because we can Google almost anything strengthening one another, even serving from our phone. Your generation’s access as inspiration to each other as colleagues, to a computer, however, must have been equal but different. only through the pages of a science- fiction novel.” Yes, we are all different here. Our visions are different. Our clientele are different. A few sniggers and guffaws broke out The central locations of our mission work from the surrounding crowd. are different. Wadah however did not bring us together here to nominate the However, the older gentleman seemed best strategy or recommend a certain undisturbed. In fact he seemed to grow in organization or to recreate us into a dignity as he quietly replied: “Young man, single mold. No, I am not even speaking [Opposite Page] From left: Pak Hashim, Jojo Perez, you know you may have a point there. In to you right now to actively advocate Sara, Tina Garcia, Lyn May Cruz, Ibu Anie, Ibu Tyas, Fr. my time, we did not have computers or for my cause or to seek help for Tuloy, Rocky, Cathy Go, John Kerr, Jun and Cely Manas,Panggay phones we can bring anywhere we go. We because Wadah is not about that. and Ed Afzelius

32 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 33 VOICES

[Opposite page, far left] Fr. Rocky Evangelista Hashim called me to say that a friend When I talk with Ibu Anie she keeps [Near left] Pak Hashim, Fr. Rocky who owed him money paid up and he talking about Wadah as a special place in planned to give that money to help Tuloy. time where people can share stories and I was astounded because let me tell you, experiences, strengthen each other with that help was extended with no strings kind words, be there for each other in attached. No proposals asked, no reports whatever capacity they are able to be. required. Although we are used to transparency and accountability we were Again this WADAH Gathering, this asked for neither. Help given with pure exchange of stories, although it is a sincerity and trust. learning and enriching experience, is not meant to be instructional. It is not grow, it energizes you, it is not an extra potential to be confined within the walls Then just a few months ago, a typhoon about instructing each other as it is thing that you do. But when service is of your physical body, comfort zones and named Sendong hit the Southern part about inspiring each other, enabling the just an extra thing that you do, there’s a security. of my country. I was copy furnished in goodness in each other, strengthening tendency to get tired, get burnt out. most Wadah emails during that time the resolve of one another. Can you feel it? and it amazed me how fast Wadah was Real heroes are ordinary men and able to mobilize resources, prayers and Miracles can be done and it can be women who go through life with open Inside you is a store of power, energy compassion from Wadah’s friends all done by you and me. Let us start eyes. They see the realities around and creativity that can only be unleashed over the world with just one simple email making miracles. them, the need. They hear the cries for when you assume the role that is just from a Filipina Wadah friend. help. They taste the bitterness in life and beyond what you are doing at the —In Tuloy Foundation Inc., Fr. Marciano have found the determination that not moment. And when we do that, we are This is what amazes me about this group: “Rocky” Evangelista, SDB, has found his another soul will get a taste of it. They rewarded with a wider perspective of the compassion is genuine and action is ultimate meaning. have smelled the stench of injustice, of reality, our very world expands and we immediate, and people walk their talk. fear, of helplessness and hopelessness. are left with a deeper appreciation of our And instead of masking it with the sweet own lives. Every action and communication reflects smell of fantasy they faced it head on. the mission of Bapak Hashim and Ibu What does it take? Just a smile, a kind Anie: a network of friends from diverse Who are they? Where are they? word here and there, positive attitude. backgrounds and calling, being there for Only that you ask? Yes just that, because each other in prayer, in loving presence Do not look at me, nor the heroes we had kindness is a pebble in the pond. It and in support, whatever form it may take. as speakers. Close your eyes, and listen ripples out into good works, harmony to the beat of your heart… and goodness. It helps transcend constraints and confusion and allows our Can you hear the whisperings of fear? human spirit to pierce through the veil of Can you hear the questions of doubt? human frailty, mistakes and fears. Can you see through the pain? Can you feel through the numbness of And just by simply reaching out with disappointment? kindness we free our spirit and the more it gives itself out and connects with other From the deafening silence of your heart lives, the more it nourishes itself, grows and from the darkness of your being, and become more alive. It becomes feel… listen… a source of overflowing energy that nourishes itself and those around. That is the quiet strength of HOPE. It is there silently nagging you to try. Silently And the best model for that is here in the pushing your hands to reach out. persons of Bapak Hashim and Ibu Anie.

Because the HUMAN SPIRIT, your spirit, Two years ago, after I spoke at a similar is simply too great, too strong, too rich in Wadah Gathering in Manila, Bapak

34 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 35 VOICES

[Top left] Ian Rose and Dan Dizon A Neophyte No More [Below] Ian Rose and Aaron Cohen by IAN ROSE, UK [Bottom] Tim Stanton, Denis Marx, and Ian Rose

WHEN ANIE TOLD ME I was coming Dr Imam and there were many more. to the next Wadah Gathering in Bali, I It is overwhelming to see and hear the was very interested but apprehensive stories of their efforts. and a little nervous of what I was letting myself for. Doubts about my The word “hero” was mentioned many worthiness of spirit and my ability to times but I sensed these “special” people contribute enough of my time without don’t wish to be referred to as “heroes” Anie, Hashim, Aryo, Sara and Indra have disappointing anyone, were surfacing but prefer as Aaron Cohen suggested “to been my friends for many years. They fast. think about the souls they have failed to have simply blown me away with their help.” They seem to be self-contained and belief, strength of purpose and super- When I arrived at Bali airport and joined have their own reference point. human energy. They move forward the group of friendly strangers without as a unit with a commitment and a having the first clue who anyone was or Initially I thought these issues are so conviction which is admirable. They are what they did, all I knew for sure was massive and complex, it seems quite an inspiration to us all, and I feel it is that I knew virtually nothing about the pointless to try to solve them, but I NOT a torch of light they are shining but subject of “human trafficking” or the have now understood these things can more like a laser-powered search light. “empowerment of women.” Everyone I only be tackled in smaller bites. I have initially spoke with were scholars, human learned there is hope and this Wadah Thank you Wadah for inviting me. I rights activists, specialist journalists or “taskforce” has the strength and resolve arrived with a few friends and I leave award winning heroes. Oh my God! to move forward together encouraging with many more. I have seen the hope, each other to make a significant dent in drive and determination of this gathering My worst fears were confirmed when these crucially urgent social problems. and I have seen the despair and sadness the gathering started with mostly off- Father Rocky is right when he says, “It with the issues and problems. I have key singing, stomping, kicking and takes one out of one’s comfort zone” and shared the camaraderie, the humour massaging each other, and pledging their it certainly does, big time. and laughs. You could say I have had love—I thought what a lot of cuckoo the “Full Monty,” but I will be back for nutcases. I arrived pretty much as a conference more. Thank you for having me, it was “Wadah virgin” without much awareness a privilege to get so close to so many As the programme unfolded however at all. I came an open-minded observer, amazing people. it became more and more obvious to but I have now understood that everyone me exactly what this gathering is really can contribute and it starts with one’s —Ian Rose is a UK-based businessman. all about and it was truly humbling, self. You can put your toe in the water shockingly graphic in parts, emotional or you can dive in, both are ok, and and very inspiring. Not being a spiritual anything and everything is appreciated or religious man, I began to feel that by this generous wonderful family of maybe there was an inextricable link Wadah. I have understood that talking between spirituality and being able to is not enough, that action is what deal with and impact these serious issues, counts. You don’t have to be particularly especially when I witnessed people’s spiritual, religious or believe in divine selflessness and determined resolve to intervention, but I do admit there is help and give of themselves to others. something there, and for me, although it These are not the kind of people I have remains undefined, whatever that special met before, they are “giants.” Efren, Budi, ingredient is, it surely has great power Anuradha, Kez, Karina, Dr Raj, Robin, whatever it is called.

36 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 37 Tributes The outpouring was tremendous. The impact of the Gathering reverberated beyond the Bali weekend. Here are some of the tributes.

Passionate Voices by Paul Lemaistre, France/indonesia

I ATTENDED THE BANQUET OF THE WADAH GLOBAL GATHERING in Jakarta in 2009 but unfortunately was unable to participate in the field trips in and around the city because of work obligations. I knew at that time that I was missing out on a fantastic opportunity to meet and connect with people who wanted to make a difference through the passion I heard in their voices when they talked about what they had seen and discussed how they could help. Then I heard glowing reports from the 2010 gathering in the Philippines, where Wadah focused its efforts on human trafficking and participants met with local activists as well as victims and survivors who shared their stories.

Needless to say, when the 2012 edition was announced in Bali and the organizers pledged to go even deeper into examining the scourge of human trafficking, I couldn’t miss the opportunity again! I wasn’t disappointed. The range of academics, activists, and survivors of human trafficking who shared their knowledge and stories was impressive. But perhaps the greatest asset of Wadah’s model is not the quality of its speakers but the passion of its participants.

Wadah is a place to share knowledge, create networks, listen and learn for inspiration, and most importantly to plot for change! I came without any knowledge of the human trafficking market, asides from exposure gained from Hollywood movies. But I came away better informed of the issues and challenges involved in tackling this complex issue; inspired by the stories of courage and perseverance from the outstanding assembled speakers; and motivated to connect with my new network to work against human trafficking.

I learnt about the interconnectedness of human trafficking with structural poverty, and I learnt that the proposed solutions are just as complex as the problems they are trying to solve. I was exposed to the huge range of opinions on how to battle human trafficking: whether it’s more important to lessen the ‘supply’ of men, women and children via global policy coordination; or whether we should focus on addressing the ‘demand’ for modern-day slaves through moral and educational campaigns, the answer likely lies somewhere in the middle. I even learnt that it’s objectionable to refer to people as commodities, so we should stop talking about supply and demand altogether! In other words, for issues as complex and devastating as this, language matters.

I want to thank the organizers again for hosting such an amazing conference. You did a superb job! My gratitude goes to the inspirational speakers as well. Thank you for sharing your amazing stories and imbuing us with your passion and courage. We come away better prepared to contribute in the global fight. I look forward to joining you all again in 2014!

—Paul is an environmental specialist at the World Bank in Jakarta.

wadah global gathering 2012 | 39 tributes WGG—An Eye Opener Stomping our Hearts Open by CHRISTOPHE Burckhard, Indonesia by ROBIN LIM, USA/philippines/Indonesia

WHAT HAPPENED? IT WAS DIFFICULT FOR ME TO FIND THE TIME “OFF” from my duties at the Yayasan Bumi Sehat Clinic, to attend a Global Gathering. However, the subject being: “Stomp to Abolish What a wonderful gathering and how interesting were all these testimonies. How sad was it to Modern-Day Slavery,” I knew I had to be there. Plus the presence of Efren Peñaflorida, the 2009 hear the stories of all these children, women and men, stolen, bought, sold, abused, tortured, CNN Hero of the year, Budi Soehardi, also a CNN Hero, Anuradha Koirala, the 2010 CNN Hero raped, exploited. How moving and inspiring was it to hear the fights of all these amazing women of the year, meant that I would be surrounded by people filled with passion for serving humanity and men who dedicate their lives in trying to give a hand, a shoulder, a roof, a home to those and ending suffering. Many of my personal heroes would be speakers; Dr. Imam B. Prasojo, Dr. who suffered at a level we can hardly imagine. Most of all they give love and attention, the Raj Abdul Karim, Pardis Madhavi Ph.D., Rio Manotoc, Karina De Vega, Murti Bunanta, Agus cement of life, where life has been destroyed, where life has been denied. May they inspire us. Priyono, Gregor Nitihardjo, Imelda Salajan and Father Rocky Evangelista, inspiring two hundred astonishing caring people. What we saw during this gathering questions me about something. We heard about people who rape other people. We heard about people who burn other people. We heard about people who I imagined an amazing event peppered with speakers who share my own deepest vision and mutilate other people. We heard about monsters. We heard about cruel monsters who seem to mission. Being a midwife, I had received babies into the world for several of the Ayana Resort be empty of love. But then…Then we saw Robin Lim bringing life into the world in her Yayasan staff, so I knew the accommodation and the food would be excellent. I even fantasized a dip in Bumi Sehat, and we remember that all those monsters were born one day as little angels, the the lovely swimming pool, a chance to read, and catch up on my own writing. I decided that the same pure and saintly and sacred little angels that we saw in Robin Lim’s or Pak Budi’s film clips. 28th to the 31st of March 2012 would be a special treat for my husband Wil and I, a chance to I don’t think that any single human being was born bad. I believe every single human being is get a break from the day and night work of being a birth-keeper for those in poverty. born with a natural good and sociable and caring nature. But the fact is that in becoming adults, sometimes even very young adults, some human beings are capable of torturing and trafficking What happened at the Wadah Global Gathering was not at all a get-away. Quite the opposite, and destroying children, women and men. What happened? What happened in their lives that the speakers were so compelling, the subject of human trafficking so terrifying and wide spread, took them to that point? What experiences did they go through and what experiences did they that I was crying, taking notes, and unable to sleep at night. I think I did pass by the swimming suffer from, that made them forget about and dispose of their little angel faces? We cannot pool, on the way to a session, but I never got wet. I did get drenched, to the bone, with renewed accept that they are just like that, bad. Otherwise we have to accept that some of the little babies passion to carry on: against poverty, against suffering, against slavery, against maternal and in Robin Lim’s audio-visual presentation are already like that too, bad babies. No, something infant mortality, against all odds. The need on Earth today to protect and support the people Ibu must have happened in their very inner being. Anie Djojohadikusumo, our Wadah founder, calls the least, the lost and the last, is more critical than ever. Together we held hands, we sang when our hearts were breaking open, we STOMPED It is absolutely vital that we take great care of the children, the women and the men who were because we are all stubborn about the need for change. deprived of their humanity by being traded, trafficked, abused, tortured. It is vital to provide love and attention and restore dignity and confidence. And I would like to add…It is absolutely When I left the clinic to attend the Wadah Global Gathering the Yayasan Bumi Sehat staff vital that we take care of and provide love and attention to every single human being, including compelled me to, “get some rest.” Sorry team, I did not rest, and I won’t be resting, until every those who “have turned wrong,” and that we question: what makes it possible in this world for last being on Earth is lifted from suffering. I arrived deeply lonely, and now, I feel supported, I little angels to become monsters, and is there anything that we can do to try to prevent this feel strong, I feel more committed than ever. There are enough of us to tip the balance from from happening? darkness to light. Thanks to the Wadah Global Gathering I feel LOVE and Peace shall prevail.

—Christophe Burckhard is based in Bali, in charge of global coordination for Anak Bali, —Ibu Robin is an author of books relating to infant and maternal health and a volume of poetry; she also blogs a humanitarian and cultural charity registered in France, Switzerland and Indonesia. for the Huffington Post.

[Far Left] Seated, from left: Mrs. Burckhard and Sylvia Maengkom. Standing: Ibu Anie and Christophe. [Left] Christophe, Sary Latief, Wil Hammerle, Robin [Right] Wil Hammerle, Ibu Robin and 40 | wadah global gathering 2012 Lim, Ibu Anie. Ibu Anie tributes

[Opposite Page, far left] Robin Lim, Efren Peñaflorida, Anuradha Koirala A New Found Family Member [Above] Ibu Anie, Mrs. Koirala, and a Maiti Nepal volunteer in Wadah Foundation by ANURADHA KOIRALA, Nepal

IT ALL STARTED WITH AN EMAIL A YEAR AGO from Wadah Foundation introducing Stomp against poverty through education: “Education: The way-out and up”was Wadah Foundation and the International Gathering in March 2012. The mail surprised us, made another important session with multifaceted approaches to be learnt. The us to think what is common between Maiti Nepal and Wadah Foundation. Many months later presentation and discussion were eye openers and made participants feel the Anie and Alfredo came to Kathmandu to meet us. It took a small fraction of time to us to feel importance of education. It is said if people invest in education, we receive the results that we both sail in the same direction, have same meanings of life and believe in service. Service even after 100 years. is a way of life that keeps on increasing when shared with each other. That few hours’ meeting paved a way for the upcoming gathering and long time commitment between us. Stomp against human trafficking prevention and re-integration was invaluable. Learning from work done on this special issue is worth to be learnt and practised. Wadah family’s warm hospitality started at the airport where Wadah officials had come to receive us. Right from the airport it has been a wonderful experience. The welcome dinner on Interception and prosecution followed by breakout sessions on community March 28 made us feel at home right away. intervention, global partnership, youth movement were great benchmarks in itself. Although it is not the answer to all the problems but is an excellent way to bring Commitment to share, care and give to start, enhance and sustain networks have been the positive changes and which will in turn bring transformation in society. values of this amazing gathering which is in line with Maiti Nepal’s mission. This event has been extraordinary to us. We had much to learn from each other. It opened doors for networking Throughout the gathering we never felt that we are meeting new people, we always with people from different parts of the globe. felt that we are meeting our own family members after a long time.

Stomp against poverty through women empowerment is striking at the root cause. Getting We feel that Wadah Foundation will always prosper and spread. And we are always to learn from speakers and doing the same activity in other parts of the world can jointly with Wadah Foundation! contribute towards bringing down the magnitude of the problem. It is said that economical empowerment of one girl leads to empowerment of the entire family, her self-esteem —Anuradha’s Maiti Nepal has rescued more than 18,000 women in its 20-year history, the increases and a girl gets all the respect that a man receives in community and whole society. estimated number of girls trafficked to India every year. Her work doesn’t end. Empowerment is the key to many successes and the work done in this regards add a social value that is accepted all over. So we are hopeful that this session was committed to learning many explicit things that can be used to wage war against inhumane traffickers.

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Combating Poverty and Human Trafficking Through a Solid [Opposite page, left] Arsari Children [Above] Didit Tumakaka and Erlina Christiana Network [Right] Didit Tumakaka, Nirmala Ratimanjari, Ida Sudoyo by DIDIT TUMAKAKA, Indonesia

IT WAS A VERY PRECIOUS EXPERIENCE for participants like me. The event gave me as education, culture, social, economic, bureaucracy, as well as the private, non priceless information, confirmation and affirmation as well as heightened inspiration government and government sectors, and at every level thereof. from world-class speakers who shared their experiences in combating poverty and human trafficking. It was really impressive. What I have gained from the Gathering is that merely doing sporadic action won’t be effective to awaken the people. It needs a continuous advocacy to help people The presence of CNN Heroes like Efren Peñaflorida (2009), Anuradha Koirala (2010) and Robin make the right decision and action to fight poverty and human trafficking, and to Lim (2011) made the event a really meaningful blessing to us, as they shared their values in life, do this, we have to address the root cause of the poverty through education and by their heart for people and the astonishing challenges in every work they do. empowering women.

I would like to express my special appreciation to Ms. Karina de Vega of Gita Eklesia who I hope that what we have started in the Gathering does not stop there. Instead, we courageously shared her personal experiences, particularly as a human trafficking survivor at a should spread the sharing of information and awareness that will lead us to the next very young age. phase, that is—to build a strong network among participants. I believe that this kind of event is an effective tool to help create that multiplying effect to influence people to To share a very painful, miserable and the most difficult moment in her life, was identical to protect vulnerable individuals against human trafficking. opening again the wounds of the tortures and sorrows she went through. Nevertheless, the sacrifice of sharing the pain was not in vain as she opened people’s eyes and minds to the I understand that all of us have our own limitations. But having an effective network importance of combating Human Trafficking in this world, especially in Indonesia. Human to share each of our competencies to support each other is a powerful tool to address Trafficking is around us, it should be a common concern to all of us to solve this issue. the issue. Therefore, solid action no matter how minute it may be when linked together could result to great work. And when this is done through a network that Therefore, we give our special thanks and appreciation to Ibu Anie Hashim and the Wadah has the same vision, greater results in combating poverty and human trafficking Foundation for organizing this event. could eventually be achieved.

As a “mere attendee” in the gathering, I now know that my role is emerging after the In this context what has been done by Wadah Foundation through WGG 2012 as a gathering. The challenge now is, what can I do with all the information, values, experiences follow up action on the previous activities has proven to be a commendable action shared with me? thereby creating new hope for the next generation to come.

We all understand that combating poverty and human trafficking are very complex issues —Didit is a corporate communication officer of the Arsari Group of Companies. in the world and in this country, it involves so many sectors and aspects in the society such

44 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 45 A Different Kind of Bali Experience by Rio Chipeco-Manotoc, philippines

WHEN WE DECIDED TO ATTEND this year’s Wadah Global Gathering, I knew we were going to meet new people, learn a lot of new things, and see new places…little did I know that I was up for something that will change my life forever.

I was shocked, nervous and at the same time honored when I was asked by Kuya Al to be one of the panelists for the talk on WOMEN EMPOWERMENT. As I’ve shared, I honestly am not an expert on the subject, nor do I have any background with regard to the subject. I asked myself, what will I share? What will I say? Then a voice inside me reminded me …”share from your heart” and that’s what I decided to do. I clearly remember that when Kuya Al asked me if I can As for me, I truly believe that I said “YES” because I was meant to discover something “Sometimes all it takes participate, I so wanted to say NO. My mind wanted to say NO. But I said YES instead, I said about myself and the world I live in. It may be hard to see the bigger picture as it was is an open mind and an YES because my heart told me to say YES. happening but looking back, it was truly a life-changing experience for me. I met open heart. It’s a matter and listened to people now I call my inspirations. In a world where there’s too many of stepping out of our Moments before we were called up on stage, I wrote down a lot of my thoughts, the things things happening, so many issues, a lot of challenges, we can get lost. We probably I wanted to share, ideas I thought can contribute to the topic and as I was about to finish my would like to do something but we don’t know what. We probably would like to start comfort zone to see notes, my husband wrote down a word on my paper, he wrote the word “SHINE!”. That’s when something but we don’t know how. This is what I discovered in Bali…that I was and discover where we it dawned on me, as I was growing, for 16 years of my life, I would always see these words actually on the right path. should be. What we are whenever I go to school - from Prep to 4th year High School…”Let your light shine!”…I knew what the words meant, but I never knew its meaning in my life until the first day of Wadah That everything we are doing right now, is exactly what I was meant to do. And that is meant to do.” Global Gathering. to share the light inside. We all have it, we all have that light, that giant light inside of us. Sometimes all it takes is an open mind and an open heart. It’s a matter of stepping If one would ask, what did I get out of the three days? I’d say I FOUND MYSELF. I’VE FOUND out of our comfort zones to see and discover where we should be. What we are meant MY PLACE. In everything that is happening around the world, good and bad, I discovered we to do. are meant to be someone who is meant to do something. Now I truly understand the passion and the heart of our CNN Heroes, all the other heroes who shared during the three days, and It’s not a coincidence that this year’s Wadah Global Gathering was held in Bali…for most especially the people behind Wadah. It’s not just about the passion to help but I believe that me, it was just meant to be. I guess I can say that this is just the beginning of my at one point in our lives, we are CALLED TO HELP—and all those who were there in BALI are special journey and I can’t wait to see everyone again in 2014! And this time I know I the ones who ANSWERED THAT CALL. have a lot more to share.

To dearest Ibu Annie, Pak Hashim, Sara, the whole family, Tita Tina, Sir Al, and the whole Wadah Family, I could not thank all of you enough for this very special experience. It’s just priceless. I will pay it forward.

—Rio is a social-entrepreneur but is first and foremost a loving wife and doting mother of three.

[Opposite page, far left] Rio Manotoc 46 | wadah global gathering 2012 [Near left] Rio Manotoc, Dr. Raj Abdul Karim, and Dr. Imam Prasodjo wadah global gathering 2012 | 47 tributes Sharing, Put into Action! by Cecille V. Ong, philippines

IT WAS THE BREAKOUT SESSION of the afternoon of Day 2 and my task from WGG 2012 co- organizer Alfredo Torno was to join the Community Intervention group. Anuradha Koirala and Imelda Salajan were the main speakers.

At first, I thought that I was just there to take down notes. Not until Ibu Nuryati from Yogyakarta brought up the issue of women trafficking in their area. She told the group that the [Opposite page, below left] Lai Oebanda women in their area are much sought-after as domestic helpers. Recruiters scout them among Ms. Salajan had her share of horror stories: she heard there is a special channel/ [This page, above left] Grace Fadli Zon, Janti the poor, lured by the promise of jobs as housemaids in large Indonesian cities, as well as terminal at Soekarno Hatta dedicated for trafficked persons. The victims are Notowidigdo, Jenny Wysynski, Anuradha Koirala, Bishwo overseas. Minors are not spared, the agents can easily manipulate their documents, (as recently segregated from the other passengers, which makes them invisible, more vulnerable Ram Khadka, Imelda Salajan [Above] Atty Filbert Flores as 16 years ago, only a few in Yogyakarta had birth certificates) and suddenly, minors come of and guarantees that they cannot cause trouble. From the start, they are charged III, Nurhayati, Dr. Bambang Hediono age. But whether adults or minors, they are exploited even before they reach their employers. exorbitant recruitment, travel, documentation fees and since they are trapped in Since these women are fresh from the village, without any household skills, their employers are that situation, they are forced to comply. Why can’t they go by themselves? Oh you not satisfied and so turn them out of their homes. The women have no choice but to look for wouldn’t want to know...she retorts, taxi drivers are just as notorious for preying on immediate and alternative ways of earning money to survive and/or return to their hometown. these poor migrant workers, and have no qualms to extort, rob and even kidnap and Since they are unskilled and desperate, the easiest way is to peddle their bodies. They become sell them to prospective “clients.” easy targets for pimps who find them customers. In other cases, they end up as sex slaves of their employers. In Northern Sumatra, parents are so impoverished they are keen to sell their Ms. Koirala told us that in Nepal, the passport authorities are the mastermind of daughters for Rp100,000.00. Unfortunately, the local Government supports this trade. faking identities. The applicants, specifically, naïve girls remain in the passport office while the “agents” process their passports. Most of them are sent to India where It was also brought up that an anti-human trafficking law was created in Yogyakarta in 1997. trafficking is rampant. Another practice is the agents use valid passports but change Training for semi-skilled labor and for housemaids was developed. These policies were not the picture, the poor victim uses the tampered passport, and is then apprehended at strictly enforced, however, and certain corrupt sections of local government also profited from the border, unaware that she has an invalid document. Right then and there she is the practice of trafficking. jailed, and she is lost, quite possibly forever.

All the while, I thought that I already had enough stories throughout the day; but I realized that Not only the speakers and panelists had experiences dealing with trafficked victims, it was just the tip of the iceberg! I am actually diving into a pool of situations wherein surely even participants like Ron Muller experienced a rescue firsthand. He was in an nobody…nobody will choose to float on their backs and do nothing. As Ibu Anie stated at this airplane bound for the Middle East with a number of Indonesian women migrant session, “Let us learn to unleash, set free the hero in us.” workers. As they were about to disembark, he noticed that the girls were being pushed to one side of the airplane. Concerned, Ron, who speaks fluent Indonesian, approached one of them and asked why they were being isolated from the other passengers. The girl told him that they were workers from Indonesia, that they were not there of their own volition. Most of them had been sexually abused and had not been paid their salaries. He then took the group to the airport authorities, but then again one can only do so much. Since these girls did not have legal documents, they were jailed for falsification of documents. It will take time for them to settle their cases before they can go back to Indonesia. It is a KNOWN FACT that human trafficking is rampant in Indonesia.

I was very pleasantly surprised when one of my countrymen stood up, Atty. Flores from the Office of the Vice President of the Philippines. Being one of only four participants from government (the other three from the Philippine Department of Justice), he presented the efforts of our government to prevent human trafficking, unlike other countries where government officials aid and abet this trade. He shared with us that the government has regular meetings with non-government

48 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 49 tributes

organization’s (NGO’s) to discuss their problems and issues, and the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA) regulates recruitment and employment agencies. He reiterated that trafficked victims do not pass POEA but through the back door that is in Mindanao area.

Having said that, he made those who said that they did not bother to consult their governments because it is simply a “waste of time,” to reconsider...that since your government started this, MAYBE others will follow.

The discussion wasn’t all complaining, uttering, listing never-ending instances of human trafficking happening in each and every country but also on contributing SOLUTIONS.

For instance, women will be empowered through a micro-financing (micro- credit) scheme which Yogyakarta is adopting. The root cause is poverty and lack of education, which, once addressed, will lessen human trafficking. And since human trafficking is a structural problem, solutions should start at the grass roots level.

It is not just the problem of the government, or of civil society, it is our problem. Us, as individuals.

All of us should have eyes and ears and hearts WIDELY open to reach out to one another, to stop thinking of ourselves only. We need to embrace humanity.

It is not always all about Economics….……….It is about being Human!

—Cecille assists in coordinating Wadah Foundation activities in the Philippines.

“All of us should have eyes and ears and hearts WIDELY open to reach

out to one another, to stop thinking of ourselves only. We need to [Facing Page] Dr. Henry Feriadi and Mario Viera embrace humanity.” [This page, top] Atty. Filbert Flores III [Above] Cecille Ong, Robin Lim, Susie Arroyo

50 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 51 tributes Wadah Gatherings 1,2,3 by Tina Ferreros, Philippines

AS A FRIEND—AND A FAN—OF WADAH from its inception, I enjoy the distinct privilege of and Emerose Nemenzo, whose struggles to empower the poorest of the poor drove having attended all three Wadah Gatherings from its very first in Jakarta in 2009, through the each to develop alternative learning systems models that are being copied by other second in Manila in 2010, and now the Global in Bali 2012. Philippine institutions.

It has become an apt metaphor for the evolution of the Foundation itself, as its work and its There was not a dry eye after the tandem excursions to Fr Rocky’s Tuloy Foundation influence expand and transform to impact more families, more communities, more partners, and to Visayan Forum’s halfway house in the heart of Manila’s South Harbor where across borders and across causes, in the service of “the least, the lost and the last.” we encountered newly-rescued victims of trafficking, some of them sweet tiny girls as young as 11. At the Gathering’s close, participants dispersed with a hunger to create Shifting from national to regional to global in the four lightning-swift years of Wadah’s existence, their own “Wadah,” starting with the tour guide named Nonoy, who rode on our bus the purpose of the Gathering remains the same: it is, still and yet, the telling of stories, the and, infected by Madame Wadah’s (Anie) passion and compassion, declared he would sharing of narratives, the provoking of discourse on issues that profoundly affect women and solicit from his clients all the unused toiletries from their five-star hotels to give to require community-based solutions to address them. A recurrent theme is “sharing in caring the girls in the halfway homes. and giving.” In 2009, it was relevant then; in 2012, it is even more relevant today. Fast forward to Stomp for Change two years later, while the stars came out At the Jakarta Gathering, the first-person accounts emanated from Wadah’s unsung heroes—a literally and figuratively—four CNN Heroes and other icons of courage and [Top left] Wadah International Gathering 2009 veritable pantheon of Anie’s homegrown “doers” who labored against insurmountable odds to commitment—the atmosphere was that of a homecoming. Strangers from different [Top right] Wadah International Gathering 2010 effect change in their communities. It was an awe-inspiring display of selflessness and tenacity countries and cultures bonded in a heartbeat, united in their desire to make a [Above] Wadah International Gathering 2009 as told by Wadah’s coordinators and collaborators, Adi Hermawan, M. Azhary , Ricardo difference. Acquaintances from previous Gatherings catching up again in the Ayana Hutahaean, Kiswanti, Purwati, Martanti Endah Lestari, Euis Mintarsih, Witnowati, Rev. Wiji Ballroom, an appropriate setting for the luminaries present, created a power surge Sentosa, Tri Wahyuni, Tatang Kurnia, Widyanigntyas, Elvira Kalschoven and retold in the just- that galvanized all. All. Through the three days of story-telling and connecting, the launched volume Obor by Ethel Chalopin. intensity grew to become palpable and celebratory.

Thereafter, participants crisscrossed Jakarta to view the communities and left with hope and Sustainability, a question brought up at the first Gathering in 2009 was answered by relief, realizing some of the country’s most vulnerable were indeed being looked after. the emergence of Sara, Anie’s daughter and her A-Team of volunteers. Covenants to create real, tangible change in the areas of women’s health and empowerment, More compelling stories emerged at the Manila Gathering in September 2010, which shone a poverty alleviation and anti-trafficking were made. New movements, ranging from light on best practices in sharing in caring and giving by some of the Philippines’ more intrepid the small to the monumental, arose: Wadah Asia; various social media platforms; activists, enablers and change-makers. Karina de Vega’s adoption of Dr. Dan Dizon’s e-learning project; the Color of Wadah Spirit spearheaded by Pablo Levinas; gala fundraisers for Ibu Robin and Pak Budi It was there where we were introduced to Fr. Rocky Evangelista, a Vatican scholar and university Soehardi; cross-border training with Anuradha Koirala for Maiti Nepal; replication of president who risked opprobrium to care for street children and eventually built a world-class Efren Peñaflorida’s Pushcart Classroomin Indonesia, to mention a few. facility where 900 of them are sheltered and educated to become viable citizens; Visayan Forum Foundation’s Cecilia Flores-Oebanda whose 20-year struggle for female migrant workers and It is, as fellow Friend of Wadah Philippines Susie Arroyo and Cecilia Flores remarked, trafficked women and children earned her a Skoll Award for Social Entrepreneurship in Oxford most aptly named Gathering of “people already doing good, aspiring to do great,” a University in 2008 and the 2011 World’s Children’s Prize for the Rights of the Child—she concept that, truth be told, I couldn’t initially grasp, and yet, became most comforting brought along trafficked survivors Rose and Ruby whose stories touched and troubled us as nothing more was demanded of me—of us—than to bear witness to what must no end; Anna Meloto Wilk, daughter of the founder of the Gawad Kalinga movement, who be, still and yet, the most inspirational show of Wadah power, felt not just in Bali, but in turn established a line of bath and beauty products to provide livelihood for the Gawad surely all over God’s good earth. Kalinga communities; Tess Ganzon, who heads a rural bank offering micro-finance for the development of micro-enterprises in the Philippine countryside; 2009 CNN Hero of the Year —Tina is point person for Wadah Foundation and Wadah Asia in the Philippines. Efren Peñaflorida, his mentor Bonn Manalaysay, Kuya Bonn’s protegees Eman Bagual and then 11-year old Chris (Kesz) Valdez, proponents of the “Pushcart Classroom”; Fr. Ned Disu

52 | wadah global gathering 2012 Wadah Asia: Spider Webs Uniting Inbox ROB ALLYN, Santa Barbara, California, DR. MURTI BUNANTA, Indonesia By Sara Djojohadikusumo USA Sara and you deserve appreciation to make I came surrounded by what Father Rocky this gathering happen. Both of your energy, calls “our walls of convenience.” But after passion and drive will guarantee for the three days immersed in the love, caring success of next WGG. and inspiration of heroes inside all of us, those walls came crashing down. I am so grateful to Ibu Anie, Pak Hashim, Mbak Sara, the speakers and all of the Wadah Family for ETHEL CHALOPIN, France taking me inside their hearts, and for opening mine. Congratulations! It has been a very inspiring “When spider webs S WE BEGIN OUR JOURNEY TOWARDS CREATING a larger network of change- Thank you for opening our eyes and opening our hearts, Ibu few days. So much have been learned and so unite, they can Amakers, both individuals and organizations alike, we see various issues arise that Anie. You cannot ask for forgiveness for blessing us with such much to do. But for now, thank you, thank you tie up a lion.” we know we need to be a part of. However, it is clear that creating a much larger network is a a great gift! and thank you! ethiopian proverb crucial part in the fight against human trafficking, an issue that Wadah has recently been highly concerned with through my personal calling in this matter. LISA CIRENZA, USA TORI BELLINO, USA Not a day has gone by where I haven’t There is a saying in Ethiopia: “When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion.” I think that this I am proud and happy to know I am in a thought about sending you my heartfelt fits perfectly well with what Wadah Asia actually aims to do. When the mafias and syndicates group of very special people and as we said thanks for such a wonderful experience have their own “network of/for trade” and through it, move victims of human trafficking around over and over this is not by coincidence! without detection, then I think it is high time that we have a network of our own to prevent or at Wadah! The exposure to the warmth intercept more of our brothers and sisters from becoming their source of income. I feel like a horse at the beginning of a race... and love in the room, the actions of the speakers, and the anxious and yet held back...in anticipation of the outcome! commitment to change was incredible and life-changing for There are a lot of individuals and organizations out there fighting this war, but when there is no I will begin to do all that God leads me to do in the name of so many at the conference. clear line of communication in such a global issue, we are clearly fighting it on a limited scale. Wadah. I need to listen and obey and make sure I am doing I got very interested in Bumi Sehat while I was there and There are people out there who need to be found, but usually when there is no information what He asks of me and not what I think I need to do so I do am working on ways to help Robin. I am also reinvigorating about them being lost, nobody even knows they are missing. Imagine what a network of it right! My heart swells with the words and love that I felt some efforts with Human Rights Watch, specifically in the networks would be able to do - when the network in Indonesia, for example, sends word to from many of you, thank you! We are warriors to march out in Women’s Division...and spoke with Alfredo about assisting Malaysia, asking for help to find one of their own who is presumed to have been trafficked there, the world, any piece of it, and fight for humanity, fight for the with the more extensive exposure of some media created and then the network in Malaysia in turn finds him/her and is able to convey word and co- lost and forgotten! I can’t think of a better army that I could in the Philippines concerning abuses suffered by domestic ordinate some way to get this person back. This is only one example. join to do this! workers. Hopefully these rather meagre contributions will Until we meet again... God bless and rejoice knowing the seed much greater outcomes and bit by bit the world will be Wadah Asia wishes to start such a network. We invite and encourage any individual or love Jesus gave us so we may continue to do the same! become a less hostile environment… organization willing to be a part of this network to join us. Please understand that we are not aiming to become another UN or Interpol or something alike. We simply would like to facilitate this to happen, get the ball rolling in the creation of a network, a line of communication, an CHRIS BENZ KARINA DE VEGA, Indonesia umbrella, a forum under which all warriors in the fight against human trafficking could link up I can’t thank you enough…The gathering was Being a part of the WGG 2012 is both an and stand together as a unit; although with its own methods and characteristics, but united in clearly a huge success and has touched all of honor and a privilege for me. I was even the same cause for a world without slavery. us so much. more honored when I was requested to share, being considered a hero at the Gathering. I was deeply moved and honored to be PEGGY BENZ,USA acknowledged as such but honestly, it was too heavy for me Efren Peñaflorida Jr. highlighted the to accept. I struggled hard to share my horrifying experience fundamental spirit of the Wadah Global and pains which I buried for more than 20 years and never Gathering… ready to serve, equality to all, wanted to remember the cruelty and trauma that I suffered and determination and dedication to act. The and underwent. atmosphere at every event exemplified love, sensitivity and (continued on following page) compassion. This was truly a “gathering” of restless souls with lights shining together inspired to “Stomp for Change.”

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But feeling the care and love of the team and the energy to assess what we are presently doing in our country to community have to help and we have to inspire each other. not only are housed and fed but are also taught to share and that I felt from the participants gave me the courage to make our drive against human trafficking more effective. I Yes we have to work towards genuine transformation which give constantly out of their abundance. stand in front of everyone and share my story. do appreciate the fact that we were the only government is sustainable and to end this modern day slavery. Ms. Anuradha Koirala’s presentation was also an eye opener. representatives during the event. I would like to thank Wadah Foundation most especially to I salute these ordinary men and women and children I thought her concept of the transit home and long-term Ibu Anie for trusting in me. I sincerely hope that my story We felt so special since we were able to share what we are who have gone beyond their circumstances to make this home stay for the survivors very practical and excellent opened everyone’s eyes that human trafficking is not just doing in the Philippines. As I have mentioned during the world a better place. Each of these extraordinary stories models. Ms Koirala could take this concept and share with something in a tele-novella that we watch everyday but a sharing, the success of our campaign was mainly due to a of compassion, dedication, selflessness, service, pioneer new overseas start-up homes for abused and rescued reality that could happen to anyone among us or to anyone closer cooperation and coordination between government educators and ambitions are not for the self but for the survivors. close to our hearts. and the private sector. society. This really inspired me and all of us. I like the bags with the “Stop Human Trafficking” statement Before any of this happens let us show that we care about Vice President Jejomar C. Binay, as Presidential Adviser Thank you all once again for enabling me to link up with used by the volunteers in the presentation. It would be nice this gigantic problem and do whatever we can to prevent it. on Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Concerns, conducts a so many heroes. I pray to God almighty to multiply these if the same statement and its URL could be printed onto We have to start doing something no matter how small it is. monthly meeting with the government and NGO members of amazing heroes and all of you into unlimited number and lay good quality haversack for youth. Imagine a group of youths Not tomorrow or the day after tomorrow but now. Yes, NOW. the Inter-Agency Council against Trafficking (IACAT) and the the foundation of a better future. carrying this haversack! It is loud advocacy! It is cool! Presidential Task Force against Illegal Recruitment (PTFAIR). With everything that there is at Wadah Foundation, I believe Ibu Anie, thank you for putting tremendous efforts in that this foundation can become the pioneer in showing In these meetings we are able to assess problems in our JOHN KERR, Switzerland gathering these heroes of the world to share with us their that we care, not just for participants but for all of us. Let us campaign and are able to develop solutions. In this, I humbly works and their dreams. Their sharing was very inspirational. Memorable quotes that encapsulate the start caring for our nation’s children or whoever is in need suggest that during the next gathering, we could focus to objective of the meeting: waiting for us to stretch our arms and give them a hand. strengthen the cooperation between government and NGO MYI LOW, Singapore as we could do more for human trafficking victims. Again, - “When spiders unite they can tie up a lion.” My congratulations to Wadah Foundation. May God bless all we would like to thank and congratulate the organizers of The event has awakened me to things I that we do in the name of service. - “We are all sons and daughters of humanity” so “Stop the Wadah Global Gathering for a very wonderful experience thought I knew but really know little of and building fences, start building bridges.” and fruitful event. Mabuhay po kayo! especially opened my eyes, even my soul, to All presenter and speakers are V.I.P.s! an amazing community of ordinary people DAN DIZON, Philippines who live extra-ordinary lives for the good of another. I come JENIFER GILIO, USA - Visionaries and Visible away humbled and at the same time exhilarated by the The lasting and significant outcomes of the A very warm thank-you for your kindness and - Inspirational and Influencers learning and exchange of many valuable experiences. WADAH Global Gathering you put together hospitality; it was a magical week! Marc and are the connections, new projects, the - Passionate and Persistent and a Plan to make a difference Unlike other market conventions, what made the gathering I left Indonesia with a deeper appreciation collaborative efforts that develop as a result. for good! so special for me is to witness the depth of passion, devotion for your life work and have been personally and magnanimity of Bapak Hashim, Ibu Anie and Sara in Our Village Online College Program that started because of inspired in ways we could not have foreseen. It was a Big problems demand bigger solutions which was evident furthering a cause noble and worthy. May the hand of God be a meeting in Wadah 2010 has now spread to many places in wonderful few days of caring, sharing and giving. throughout the gathering given man’s inhumanity to man. with you always and multiply abundantly the harvest. the Philippines and now will go to Indonesia for Gita Eklesia. Thank God for all the participants! When we returned home, it was our son’s 7th birthday. Kesz’s I will also be working with UKDW (Universitas Kristen Duta story kept replaying in my head, so we told our son about Wacana) in Yogya to help them start Online Courses. PARDIS Madhavi, Ph.D., USA/Iran him and what Kesz does for children on his birthday. Our son BISHWO RAM KHADKA, Nepal Plus many others good projects that you will hear about suggested that we do something similar, and asked if we What a wonderful opportunity you and Wadah Allow me to echo what has been said here so soon. Thank you so much for providing the ground for these could donate “yummy, nutritious food” to a homeless shelter family members put together for all of us last far, and add my thanks to Anie and the whole many efforts to be born, grow and flourish. —and we so did. I have a feeling this will become a family week in Bali, it will remain in our heart and family for what was truly amongst the most tradition. Thank you! inspiring experiences of my life. It was such God surely has blessed you so much that you have also much mind our whole life. a pleasure to meet you all, and I cannot wait to see you all to share. Thank you very much for letting us into the Wadah family. again soon, in the U.S., Bali, or wherever our paths may cross. BABLI KALHA, India Thank YOU so much for all the hard work that the Wadah ATTY. FILBERT CATALINO FLORES III, Thank you all to have provided us with a LIM CHOO HIN, Singapore family put into this amazing gathering. It was truly an event Philippines marvelous glimpse of life as it is and as it can I was impressed with Pak Budi and Ibu Peggy to remember, and I enjoyed myself immensely. Not only has be when we change our attitude. The gathering was both interesting and for their holistic education for the orphans my network expanded, but I feel that my family has as well. I fulfilling. Interesting since we got to meet Listening to all the speakers and the horror and abandoned children under their care. am most grateful to you all for everything, and I can’t wait to and exchange experiences with other fellow stories which they shared are going to stay with us forever. This couple was able to house and guide a continue this partnership. workers against human trafficking. Fulfilling since we were They have opened our hearts. Yes we cannot close our huge group of children on tilling, planting and harvesting Please do keep me posted about how I can help with the able to learn a lot from other participants, were able to eyes to these problems which we all discussed. We as a and offering their harvest to needy villagers. These children Wadah International Coalition, I am most eager to be involved! establish contacts for better cooperation, and were able

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JUN and CELY MANAS, Philippines KADE MASTRA, Indonesia DR. IMAM PRASODJO, Indonesia So, thanks to all of you for your generous and warm hospitality and an excellent meeting, all the delicious meals, Cely and I would like to say thank It’s inspiring to see ordinary people with We are the ones who should say thank you music and dance, not to mention logistics, which all ran you once more for making our extraordinary heart of love doing action to for your invitation. I am honored to be part of smoothly from my perspective. Having run conferences in brief stay in Bali a memorable and make a difference and become extraordinary the program. my past I know it must have looked differently from your wonderful one. Congratulations too themselves. perspective at times. to you, Sara and the dedicated people who made the Wadah DR. AGUS PRIYONO, Indonesia Gathering a well-organized and successful event. True to We would welcome any of you in Cape Town anytime. IIN and RON MULLER, Indonesia form, you were so good in making people feel at home like I very much appreciate what you’ve done and a true hostess. Sara is super as a speaker, singer, organizer/ Ron and I both were extremely hope we can together do the best things for JAQUELINE WARD, USA moderator - a real beauty with God-given talents which she impressed not only with how well the other people. generously shares with others. Hashim while on stage was event was organized, but also awed Wadah opened their arms to welcome us a picture of a loving husband looking at you with affection by the calibre of the speakers and all to be a part of the Stomp for Change IMELDA SALAJAN, UK and admiration. And you with him together with your son panelists that participated in the program, to the extent that movement. The speakers have shared their and Sara were a picture of a family in unity and love for the we left the conference feeling so touched and blessed to Thank you so much for inviting me to the experiences and expertise with us and their service of others. have been part of such an inspiring and spiritual event. gathering. I really enjoyed the event very stories have engaged and inspired us all. The gathering much. I look forward to talking further provided a powerful platform to raise awareness, exchange God Bless! The real life testimonies from the Heroes and Heroines were with Pak Hashim and Pak Fadli about how ideas and call all participants to action. an eye opener on human trafficking and more importantly a we can spread the word to the government about Human wonderful example how individuals can change the lives of The themes of love and spirituality were woven into the EMILY MARCELO, Philippines Trafficking in Indonesia. others through providing love, care and support to others in entire gathering. Robin Lim called us all to say “I love you” Hopefully the recently-concluded mind- need. Hearing from inspiring people like Anuradha Koirala in order to keep moving forward when faced with fatigue jarring and emotion-filled Wadah Global and Kesz renewed a steadfast spirit in us, that each person GRACE and RAOF SHAN, Malaysia and barriers to the important work that needs to be done. Gathering has made each one of us realize can make a difference, to help make the world a better place. Aaron Cohen encouraged us to “look at the light in every It has been an overwhelming the enormity of the work to be done to person” and to look for “forgiveness and hope.” Karina de We admire your endless efforts and appreciate your strong four days for us and it was a good alleviate the scourge of poverty and to continue slaying the Vega described her work with children as a calling and uses words of wisdom and encouragement expressed to all forum where we have learned a lot dragons that promote human trafficking. prayers to inspire others. Fr. Rocky called us all to “live our life the participants. Your enthusiastic and infectious attitude on issues surrounding the world in service.” Life is getting shorter and we have barely scratched the re-energized our personal conviction that it is our duty and particularly relating to Wadah’s cause and fight. We are surface of these monumental and horrific problems. But responsibility to make a conscious effort every single day to definitely awakened! We realise that we are able to do The stories shared and knowledge gained along with the with an assemblage of dedicated and kindred spirits vowing be a servant to others and let people glimpse the goodness something in our small way, and hence are pledging to assist connections made have given us the courage and strength to continue the fight—the flicker of light at the end of the of Jesus in us. and support by setting up Wadah Malaysia. Although Raof is to do our part to make a difference in the world. The love tunnel can only get stronger. and spirituality present in the participants of the Wadah We have continued to share what we heard and learned committed to some businesses and I with my work, we will gathering will stay with me and continue to inspire me to from the gathering with our friends in order to persevere find time to do this until it gets bigger to warrant more of our time. Stomp for Change! Thank you Wadah! LAURIE, DENIS and DANIEL MARX, with the message, and remain committed to continue to Switzerland help those in need around us. We appreciate the trust and faith you have in us to carry out our tasks. NINA and DINNY YUSUF, Indonesia Thank you so much for making us a part of this wonderful gathering EFREN Peñaflorida, Philippines More than a week has passed by of caring, sharing and giving. Your TIMOTHY STANTON, USA after Wadah Global Gathering in Bali, It is I who needs to be thankful for the energy is infectious more so the power and encouragement but both Nina and I can still feel the wonderful experience you brought us. It’s Many thanks for a most enjoyable, to your humanitarian work. spirit of togetherness. Nina and I a very rare occasion to be with people with interesting and often inspiring week here were inspired by the stories of the speakers. We were also As we say in French ‘’Chapeau a vous tous!” such amazing hearts and high spirits like in Bali with Wadah. I am so glad that I came impressed at the professionalism of the team under Alfredo yours. It was indeed a fruitful and productive gathering of and was pleased to get acquainted with you, We are sooooo blessed, and will not even use the word and Sara. heroes and change-makers who dream and hope to have Anie and the others on Wadah staff as well the many very “lucky” because luck can be good or bad BUT we believe in a better world for everyone. I thank you for allowing us interesting conference participants. It has been terrific to The program from morning until night was full on. We learned blessings, because blessings are always good and you can join the crusade. I’m with you to stomp poverty and stomp have made many new contacts and have my eyes opened new concepts, we met old friends and made new friends. On work to make even more good from them. for change. further on issues such as trafficking. The work you all are top of it, Toraja Melo made quite a good sale! Keep it up for God gives you all the strength to do such doing is important and wide ranging with apparent deep wonderful job. impact, and I will be pleased to remain a part of the network going forward.

58 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 59 the win’ners circle

Wadah International Network - WIN Don’t be a Whiner, Be A WIN’ner

CHILDREN’S WELFARE Yayasan Kasih Roslin East Bali Poverty Project The Learning Farm HEALTH LIVELIHOOD/ Contact Persons: Budi Soehardi /Peggy Contact Person: David Booth Contact Person: Retno Yuli Krista Wati WOMEN EMPOWERMENT YayasanAnak – BantuanAnak Indonesia Yayasan Bumi Sehat Bali RoslinOrphanage (panti asuhan Roslin) PO Box 3850 Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia Email.: [email protected] CONTACT PERSON: Denis Marx, Contact Person: Robin Lim Toraja Melo Email: [email protected] Website: www.eastbalipovertyproject.org Website: www.thelearning.com President d’Anak-Suisse Banjar Nyuh Kuning, Ubud, Bali, Contact Person: Dinny Jusuf Website: www.roslinorphanage.org Jl Raya Pengosekan, Br Kalah, Peliatan Ubud Elearn 21 Courseware Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW) Indonesia 80571 Email: [email protected] 80571, BALI - Indonésie Contact Person: Dr. Dylan Dizon Contact Person: Dr. Djohan Email: [email protected] Website: www.torajamelo.com TEL: (62) (0) 361 977 204 94 J. Osmena Street, Cebu City Jl. Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo No. 5-25, Website: www.bumisehatbali.org DISASTER RELIEF Switch to Save EMAIL: [email protected] Philippines 6000 Yogyakarta 55224 Caring Children Contact Person: Rio Manotoc WEBSITE: www.anakbali.org Nurani Dunia Tel: 63-916-4171003 Email: [email protected] Contact Person: Kesz Valdez Email: [email protected] Contact Persons: Imam Prasodjo/ Gita Prasodjo Email: [email protected] Website: www.ukdw.ac.id Club 8586 Kalingain Batang Mahirap Foundational Center Email: CONTACT PERSON: KB Manalaysay Fak. Psi. Universitas Pancasila Yayasan Luxembourg 188 Miranda, Cavite City 4100, Philippines [email protected]; [email protected] Kalingain Batang Mahirap Foundational Center Contact Person: Evanytha/ Contact Person: Mr. Joseph Spartz Email: [email protected] Website: www.nuranidunia.or.id 188 Miranda, Cavite City 4100, Philippines Vinaya Untoro Dradjat Jl. Tanjung Barat Raya No. 5, Tanjung Barat, EMAIL: [email protected] Yakkum Emergency Unit – Jogjakarta Jl. Srengseng Sawah, Jagakarsa, Pasar Minggu Contact Person: Robby Sukaryanto Jakarta Selatan, Indonesia 12640 Jakarta Selatan HUMAN TRAFFICKING Gita Eklesia Foundation Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]; Tel: 62-21-780 6682 Crossover Foundation Contact Person: Karina de Vega Website: www.yeu.or.id [email protected] YAKKUM Rehabilitation Program Contact Person: Keith Dsouza Jl. Kartini 12A, Ambarawa Institut Sains Teknologi Nasional Contact Person: Dr. Maria 20, Divine Bungalows, I.C. Colony Borivali, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia Contact Person: Dr. Agus Priyono Jl. Kaliuran Km. 13.5, Besi, Yogyakarta 55233A Mumbai 400103, India Email: [email protected] EDUCATION Email: [email protected] Website: www.yakkum-rehabilitation.org Email: [email protected] Website: www.panti-asuhan-eklesia.com Balay Kabataan Website: www.istn.ac.id Young Ladies Association of Charity Maiti Nepal SOS Children Village Indonesia Contact Person: Mrs. Alita Solon Kelompok Pecinta Bacaan Anak (KPBA) or Contact Person: Dr. Anita Sanchez Contract Person: Anuradha Koirala Contact Person: Gregor Nitihardjo Parish of the Alliance of the Sacred Heart of Society for the Advancement of Children’s P. Gomez St., Cebu City 6000 Philippines 83-Maiti Marg, Pingalsthan, Gaushala Email: [email protected] Jesus and Mary, Fortich St., Banawa, Cebu City Literature Tel: 63-32-2558839 P.O. Box 9599, Kathmandu, Nepal Website: www.sos.or.id 6000 Philippines Contact Person: Dr. Murti Bunanta Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] The Playa Foundation Email: [email protected] Website: www.cbcpworld.com/ylac Website: www.maitinepal.org Contact Person: Kathryn Playa Child Care and Development Center (CCDC) Website: www.kpba-murti.org On Track Media 137 N. Larchmont Blvd #48 Contact Person: Sr. Emerose Nemenzo Raise a Village Project Contact Person: Imelda Salajan Los Angeles, CA 90004 c/o Mactan Trade Center, Florencio Bldg., ENVIRONMENT Contact Person: Rev. Bienvenido Disu,CM Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Dela Serna St. Poblacion San Roque Parish, Subangdaku ENVIRONMENTAL BAMBOO FOUNDATION Website: www.ontrackmerdia.org Website: www.theplayawire.com Lapu Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines 6015 Mandaue City, Cebu Contact Person: Linda Garland Tel: 63-932-225-7618 Presidential Task Force Against Illegal Tuloy Foundation Inc. 6014 Philippines Bali P.O. BOX 196, Ubud, Bali Indonesia 80571 Email: [email protected] Recruitment (PTFAIR) Contact Person: Fr. Rocky Evangelista Tel: 63-947-461-8429 Tel: 62 361 974 028 c/o Office of the Vice-President of the Tuloy sa Don Bosco Street Children Village Dynamic Teen Company (DTC) Email: [email protected] Fax: 62 361 974 029 Philippines Alabang-Zapote Road cor. San Jose Contact Person: Efren Geronimo Peñaflorida Jr Email: [email protected] Sekolah Kami Contact Person: Alabang Village, Muntinlupa City Kalingain Batang Mahirap Foundational Center Website: www.bamboocentral.org Contact Persons: dr Irina Amongpradja/ Atty. Filbert Catalino F. Flores III 1770 Philippines 188 Miranda, Cavite City Lady Haque Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] 4100 Philippines Jl. Bintara Jaya II / Gg. Masjid RT 003/09. Kel. Website: www. tuloyfoundation.org Website: www.dtc.org.ph Visayan Forum Foundation Bintara Jaya, Kec. Bekasi Barat Contact Person: Cecilia Flores-Oebanda Email: [email protected]; No. 18 12th Avenue, Brgy Socorro, Cubao, [email protected] Quezon City, Metro Manila Website: www.sekolahkami.web.id 1109 Philippines Website: www.visayanforum.org/portal

60 | wadah global gathering 2012 wadah global gathering 2012 | 61 From the Flight Deck

by ALFREDO TORNO III, Philippines/Indonesia

WITH THE SUCCESS OF THE PAST TWO WADAH GATHERINGS (2009 in Jakarta and Through life-changing gifts 2010 in Manila), being a co-organizer for this year’s Wadah Global Gathering in a way put me on edge, already anticipating the challenges up ahead. First, unlike in the past where all the speakers were coming from one country thereby coordination was very manageable, this time, Rp. 20,000 Pays the fees for obtaining a child’s Birth Certi cate speakers, resource persons and even guests were coming from all parts of the world; second, (US$ 2) Penebusan Akte kelahiran seorang anak this year’s venue was Bali undebatably known for its tropical paradise attractions thus making it difficult for any conference to keep participants from slipping away and sneaking out to be “accidental tourists”; third, we had an avoidable change of date for the Gathering after getting confirmation from all speakers and panelists. There were, of course, other challenges posed us Alleviates the eects of malnutrition in a child by providing a month’s supply of as the days went along. Rp. 60,000 milk to augment his diet (US$ 6) Mengurangi malnutrisi pada anak melalui pemberian susu setiap bulan But when participants started pouring in on D-day, everything just became icing on the cake. The change of date may have affected some but to most people they made true with their commitments. We even had to close our on-line registration for fear of not being able to accommodate everyone at the venue. People who were strangers at first left the Gathering Rp. 500,000 Provides a start-up capital for a micro-entrepreneur with loads of additional friends and stories to tell. My fear on whether people would stay put (US$ 50) Menyediakan modal untuk memulai usaha mikro in the conference abated as the number of participants and attendees grew in number instead of dwindling. Our internationally renowned guests, including the four CNN heroes came and arrived as scheduled and even stayed for the entire duration of the Gathering. It was simply amazing, not to mention, of course, rewarding and inspiring. Rp. 1,000,000 Procures one month’s supply of medicines for a community clinic (US$ 100) Menyediakan obat-obatan bulanan untuk klinik masyarakat The Wadah Global Gathering concept which is quite unique and thus difficult to explain eventually became more comprehensible to most who attended this particular Gathering. At WGG, there is no pretension to want to educate, teach, preach and claim that what one is doing is the best from all the rest. Instead, what participants experienced was a realization that Purchases a personal computer for a community library everyone needs someone; that synergy is better than being all alone; that sharing is better than Rp. 4,500,000 Membeli sebuah computer untuk perpustakaan masyarakat receiving; that giving is beyond all material means; that caring can be shown by doing and not (US$ 450) just merely knowing; and that in order for change to happen, it must start from one’s own self.

At this point, I would like to thank WGG speakers, panelists and moderators for sharing their precious time and experiences; all the volunteers who have selflessly given their time, money and effort; those who worked behind the scene to ensure the success of the event; all the sponsors who have supported us all the way, all members of the organizing committee and Ibu Anie for entrusting us this huge task, and most especially to my co-organizer, Sara Djojohadikusumo who beyond spared her all for WGG and Wadah Foundation. Thank you all! PLEASE SEND YOUR DONATIONS TO:

Yayasan WADAH Titian Harapan Bank Mandiri, Jakarta Midplaza Branch Mid Plaza II, Jl. Jend Sudirman Kav 10-11 Jakarta 10220, Indonesia IDR Account 122-000-4936590 (Indonesian Rupiah) USD Account 122-000-4952753 (US Dollar) Swift Code BMRIIDJA

62 | wadah global gathering 2012 Yayasan WADAH Titian Harapan (WADAH Foundation) MidPlaza 2 Level 2 Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 10-11 Jakarta 10220 Indonesia Tel: +62 21 570 7789 Fax: +62 21 570 7630 [email protected] www.wadahfoundation.or.id