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My name is Fatima O. Malaca, and I am 20 years old. Life has never been easy for me. My parents separated when I was young, and from then on, my grandmother became my only constant companion at home. I have two brothers, but they already have their own lives and work far away to support themselves. Growing up, I carried a dream close to my heart: to work on a ship. I imagined myself traveling across the seas , discovering new places , and, most importantly, helping my family live a better life . But reality reminded me that my family could not afford the high cost of college. Still, I tried to keep my hope alive. After graduating from Senior High School, a haunting question followed me every day: What will happen to me now?  Fear grew stronger with each passing week. I worried that I might never achieve my dreams and would remain stuck in uncertainty. I fought back by working hard . I searched for every possible way to earn an income, selling second-hand clothes online, tutoring a neighbor’s child for ₱200 a week, and even joining dance contests, hoping to win ₱1,000. But no matter how much I tried, the money was never enough. The exhaustion was heavy , but my dreams kept pushing me forward . Then came a bold decision: I enrolled in college to take up Education. At first, I kept it a secret from my family. When I passed the entrance exam, I told them, and they supported me emotionally but not financially . We simply couldn’t afford it. Eventually, I had to let go of that dream for the moment. Watching my classmates continue their studies while I stayed behind filled me with envy and sadness . But life has a way of opening doors when you least expect it. One day, I saw Venice, a familiar face, walking confidently in her uniform. Without thinking, I asked if she was working. She smiled and told me she was training at LP4Y (Life Project 4 Youth), a program that supports young people build skills, confidence, and a better future. Her story lit a spark in me. For the first time in a long while, hope returned . On May 6, 2025, I walked into LP4Y for the first time. I was overwhelmed . I didn’t understand the activities, the schedules, or even the purpose behind some of the tasks. Part of me wanted to give up. Honestly, in the early weeks, I only came for the weekly allowance. But deep down, I knew there had to be more to this program. The turning point came during Life Project Plan day, when we each shared our life plans. That moment made me ask myself: Why am I here? What am I really working toward?   The Green Village Leader, Sherlyn Caasi, shared words that stayed with me: When you feel like giving up, remember why you started Sherlyn’s story, of hardship turned into triumph, reminded me that no matter how difficult the road, the journey is worth it. From that day on, I promised myself to give my all at LP4Y . Since then, I’ve seen changes in myself I never imagined possible . The lost and uncertain girl is now someone who knows how to act professionally . The shy girl who feared speaking in public now speaks with confidence. The one who didn’t know how to use a computer can now create, edit, and use technology as a tool for progress . I no longer run from challenges , I face them head-on . LP4Y has taught me discipline, teamwork, leadership, and resilience. It has given me not only skills for work, but lessons for life . Most importantly, it has given me a second family, people who believe in me, encourage me, and remind me that I am capable of more than I think. Yes, challenges will always come . But I now believe there will always be more solutions than problems, more ways forward than reasons to give up. My journey is far from over, but I walk with courage, purpose, and faith. I am no longer just a girl with dreams. I am a young woman building them into reality.

Hello everyone, My name is Liliane Zahraman, I’m 21 years old, I’m from Akkar, North of Lebanon. I’m so happy to have this chance to share my story. Before I joined the training, I was always thinking about the step that would help me change my life, the one that would push me to become a new version of myself. With the support I found and through my own determination, effort, and commitment, I finally took that step. All my life, I was a shy person. Even when I talked with other girls, I didn’t feel comfortable. I was staying in my comfort zone, that's all I ever did. But then, something unexpected happened, I heard about LP4Y from my cousin and I decided to join.  At first, I didn’t know what to expect. But once I joined, everything began to change. I found support, purpose and people who believed in me and in every girl, no matter her background. I started learning new skills, how to speak confidently, how to work in a team, how to lead, and how to believe in myself. I had studied English all my life, but it was only at LP4Y that I realized for the first time that I could actually speak English clearly and confidently. During my time, I grew so much not just professionally but also personally. I became more independent, more confident and more focused on my future. After completing the program, I started searching for jobs immediately.When I went into the first job interview one sentence was repeated in my head “ They need you now “ and I went into the office. I did my interview with all the confidence I have in English. The surprise was that I took the job for the first time ever doing a real interview. It was not easy but LP4Y is giving us the tools to succeed and taught us to believe that no matter what, we always have a chance. Now I’m a different person, I’m no longer hiding in my comfort zone, I’m growing, I’m working, I’m studying and I’m dreaming bigger than ever before. Thank you LP4Y. Thanks for believing in us and for giving us the chance to build a better future.

My name is Sarita Thapa, and I am 22 years old. I come from Dhulikhel-12, Kavre, Nepal. Before joining LP4Y, I felt the need for transformation through skills and confidence to pursue a meaningful career. I was teaching in a private school while continuing my intermediate education . Although I was engaged in both work and study, I felt the need to develop additional skills for personal and professional growth. I had a strong desire to become independent and pursue a meaningful career, which led me to join LP4Y. I became part of the Green Village Nepal (GVN) in Godawari, where I joined the restaurant micro-company as a Communication Officer. Eventually, I took on the responsibility of leading the restaurant team as a Team Leader. During my time at LP4Y, I gained valuable skills in leadership, communication, teamwork, budgeting, time management, and much more. I vividly remember the day I cried after being selected for the restaurant team, I had no prior experience in customer service or budgeting, but within three months, I learned so much. At times, I also felt homesickness and hopelessness during the training and it made me want to give up and return home. However, the supportive environment , encouraging coaches, and inspirational friends kept me going. The same girl who once lacked confidence is now someone who found a job through online job platforms, succeeded in interviews, and is happily working in her dream field. The transformation I experienced through LP4Y was truly remarkable . I became more confident, self-aware, and professionally capable. I now feel ready to face future challenges and proud of how far I've come. As a coach replacement, I worked at a TDC (Training and Development Center) for a month. This role sharpened my public speaking and mentoring skills , as I guided young girls like myself in choosing their career paths, managing their budgets, and understanding professionalism. I am grateful to LP4Y for providing me with such a meaningful opportunity to give back. From entering GV full of doubts and inexperience to becoming a coach guiding fresh minds toward their action plans, it was an incredibly fulfilling journey . Working with those young women reminded me of my own training days. Seeing them grow, make decisions, and get hired-just as I did-was one of the most satisfying experiences I've had. Today, my professional journey in the social work sector continues. I currently work as a Mobilizer at ROYM Nepal in one of the rural municipalities of Dhading, a position I have held since March 19, 2024. The professionalism and confidence I gained at LP4Y have helped me succeed in interviews and thrive in my job . I've always had potential , but LP4Y helped me realize and believe in it , and for that, I am sincerely thankful . To any young person who is struggling or just beginning their journey with LP4Y, I want to say: This is a wonderful opportunity to discover yourself, build essential skills, and open the door to a meaningful, skill-based career. For me, LP4Y has been like a ladder-it gave me the support and tools I needed to climb toward the future I once only dreamed of. When I hear the words 'We are the future. I feel hopeful and confident , because we are prepared to face any challenge that comes our way. Sarita Thapa - Youth from GV Godawari, Nepal

My name is Linn Htet Maung Maung, and I am proud to be one of the STAR of LP4Y (Life Project 4 Youth). After the military coup in Myanmar over four years ago, my life was filled with uncertainty . I was an under-high school graduate, and in my country, most companies don't accept candidates without a diploma. I felt lost , unsure of what to do or how to move forward. All I wanted was a decent job, but I didn’t know where to begin.      Living in Myanmar today is not easy. The country is still facing a lot of political problems . Many young people, like me, lost access to education and job opportunities . Internet restrictions, inflation, and daily fear make life more difficult. It's hard to plan for the future in a place where things change so quickly. Many families have been separated, many people live in fear, and the dreams of Youth are often delayed. One day, my brother told me about LP4Y. At first, I didn’t understand what the program was about. But I made a decision: Even if I didn’t know everything, I would try – because I had nothing to lose. After two months in the program, I realized that LP4Y was exactly what I needed. It gave me the coaching , the mindset , and the practical skills for a working environment. I learned how to understand myself better , how to prepare for work, and most importantly, how to believe in my future . Even after graduating, I faced challenges. I didn’t get a job right away. But I remembered what my coaches told me: " "Be patient. The right opportunity takes time." I went through many interviews , failed several times , but I never gave up . Finally, two months after finishing LP4Y, I was offered a position at CMA CGM as an Administrative Officer. Many of the skills I use now, I learned at LP4Y  from communication to time management, from teamwork to professionalism. Today, I’m thankful. I’m still learning , still growing , and always looking for new opportunities to build my future . I didn’t just receive skills, it also gave me confidence , direction , and hope .

My name is Smita Rai, and I’m from Ilam (eastern part) of Nepal, however now I am living in Kathmandu. I come from a middle-class family, and my parents have worked incredibly hard to raise me and my brother. They came from a small village in Nepal, where opportunities were limited , but they decided to move to Kathmandu to give us a better life and education . They knew that education was the key to breaking the cycle of struggle , so they made countless sacrifices to ensure that we could attend a private school from nursery all the way through to now. Watching my parents give everything they had for our future left a deep impression on me. They didn’t just provide us with an education, they gave us the foundation for a better life , even if it meant going through hardships themselves. One of the most selfless sacrifices my mother made was going abroad to earn money for our family. I still remember the day she left. It was one of the hardest moments for all of us. My mother, who had always been there for us, had to leave us behind so she could work in a foreign country, far away from her children and her family. She did this not just to provide us with an education, but to ensure we could survive during some of the toughest times of our lives. Every time I think about the pain in her eyes when she left, I am reminded of how much love and sacrifice she has shown us. But our struggles didn’t stop there. When I was in class 8, my father became seriously ill. The man who had always been the pillar of our family suddenly became so weak that we had to watch him suffer. It was a helpless feeling , knowing that all the dreams my parents had worked so hard for, the dream of owning a home where we could be safe and happy, began to slip away. We had been saving for years to buy land and build our family’s dream house , but all our savings were used up for my father’s treatment. It was a heartbreaking decision, and I could see the pain in my father’s eyes as he struggled to accept the reality of our situation. It was not his fault, but it felt like our dreams were shattering before us . In the midst of all this, my mother made the difficult decision to go abroad. She had to leave us behind once again, but this time, it wasn’t just about education, it was about survival. It was about keeping our family together, making sure my father received the treatment he needed, and giving us a fighting chance. My mother’s strength, courage, and determination to provide for us in the face of such adversity are what continue to drive me to this day. Growing up, I faced my own struggles, especially when it came to my confidence . I was a shy, introverted child, and the bullying I faced at school only made things worse. When I was in class 5, I was chosen to lead a speech program at school. I was terrified. The fear of speaking in front of others was paralyzing, and when my moment came, I froze. I couldn’t speak a word. The teasing from my classmates made me feel even more worthless , like I was not good enough to do anything that required courage or confidence . It was painful to feel so small, so invisible, but it was in these moments of weakness that I decided I had to change. That’s when my best friend, Sostika, came into my life. She was always there to support me, through thick and thin. One day, she told me about Life Project 4 Youth (LP4Y). She had seen the transformation LP4Y had brought in the lives of others , and she believed it could help me too. She encouraged me to join, and looking back, it was the best decision I ever made . Joining LP4Y was a turning point for me. It wasn’t just about gaining new skills, it was about finding my voice. For the first time, I was surrounded by people who believed in me , who saw potential where I saw failure. LP4Y gave me the courage to face my fears and step into the light . LP4Y didn’t just help me gain new skills, it gave me the courage to be myself, to speak up, and to believe in my own worth, through their support, I gained the courage to face my fears. Joining LP4Y has been a transformative experience that significantly shaped my personal and professional growth . I worked in various departments, each offering valuable lessons and challenges: In the Human Resources & Finance  department, I gained skills in budgeting, managing the cash book and box, and participating in monthly finance closings (SAGA). I also managed the money forecast and allocated tasks within the team, enhancing my organizational, financial, leadership, and teamwork abilities. In Learning and Development , I created content for basic computer training and facilitated sessions for both LP4Y colleagues and the local community. I also helped build partnerships with clubs and community members and tracked program effectiveness by updating the Key Impact Indicator (KII) . During this time, I led a department team, coordinating tasks and responsibilities. This experience improved my leadership and communication skills, teaching me the importance of clear communication and active listening. LP4Y provided professional exposure through company visits, mock interviews , and testimonies from industry experts. These experiences built my confidence and helped me refine my interview skills, directly contributing to securing my current job. The mock interviews and networking opportunities during the program played a crucial role in preparing me for professional roles in finance and administration. One major challenge I faced was during the mobilization for computer training  sessions. Despite some initial rejection from community members, I learned the importance of perseverance and adaptability. Balancing responsibilities across finance, training, and leadership roles pushed me beyond my comfort zone, helping me think critically, manage multiple tasks, and work under pressure, skills I continue to apply today. One of the most powerful moments of my journey was when I was asked to be the Master of Ceremony for LP4Y’s Graduation Day. Standing in front of so many people, leading the event, was something I had never imagined I could do. But with each word I spoke, I felt the shy, bullied child inside me begin to fade away. I was no longer afraid. Later, I had the incredible opportunity to MC for LP4Y’s biggest event, Entrepreneur’s Day. It was a huge milestone for me, and as I stood there in front of everyone, I realized just how much I had grown . From being the quiet, self-conscious kid who couldn’t speak in public, I had transformed into someone capable of leading these major events with confidence . Today, I am proud of who I have become. I no longer let my past or the bullying I endured define me. Thanks to LP4Y, I have gained the confidence to lead, to speak, and to believe in my own abilities. But my journey isn’t just about me, it’s about giving back to my family , especially to my mother, who sacrificed so much for us. I am currently a bachelor’s student, working hard to continue my education and build a better future. I already have a decent job , but my true drea m is to give my parents the life they deserve . I want to give them the dream house they’ve always wanted, a house filled with warmth, love, and memories. I will work tirelessly, and with every step I take, I will remember the sacrifices they made for me. My first priority will be to bring my mother back from abroad, so that we can all be together again. I will not rest until I can make them proud and repay them for everything they’ve done for me . I want my mother to know that her sacrifices will never be forgotten , and I want my father to see the dream they both had come to life . The journey is far from over, but I now walk it with confidence , as a resilient youth in Nepal, shaped by my family’s sacrifices and the strength I’ve discovered through every challenge . My future is bright , not just because of what I can achieve, but because of the love and sacrifices that have shaped me into the person I am toda y. Smita Rai - Youth from TDC Kathmandu, Nepal

From April 21–27, 2025, LP4Y Indonesia proudly took part in the “ La Nuit & Matinée des Idées ,” a global event organized by Institut Français Indonesia . This international initiative brought together hundreds of French cultural institutions and changemakers to explore how innovation , commitment , and bold ideas can address the world’s pressing challenges , climate , technology , and democracy . One of the highlights of our participation was the screening of I Am Future – Youth Vision  during La Nuit des Idées . The event featured Dian , the protagonist of the film, accompanied by two inspiring youth representatives, Sherly and Becky . The post-screening discussion was led by Shannen , who guided the exchange with energy and authenticity, inviting the audience to dive deeper into the motivations of LP4Y Youth and the journey of transformation they experience. The conversation that followed was rich and engaging . Guests asked thoughtful questions about the movie’s message and the future envisioned by the Youth. The presence and support of the Jesuit brothers , who support LP4Y by training Youth in English and Excel, along with corporate partners , made the evening even more meaningful. One powerful message stood out from the discussion: “Wherever you come from is not a reason to stop growing, learning, or even failing. Failure does not define the outcome. It simply means trying another way.” This simple truth is at the heart of youth empowerment , the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to rise, grow, and contribute, regardless of their background. On Sunday, LP4Y joined La Matinée des Idées – Pouvoir Agir (Empowering Action). We opened a booth alongside 15 other changemakers, including NGOs, citizen-led initiatives, and grassroots organizations. With the amazing help of STAR, Una, and Tirah , we introduced visitors of all ages to the LP4Y mission and promoted the Youth Inclusion Forum  to a broader audience. This event was a powerful reminder of how youth empowerment   thrives through collaboration, visibility, and belief in change, step by step, conversation by conversation. We’re grateful to have been part of this journey and look forward to taking part again next year!

Hello everyone, my name is Judy Ann Abasola, and I’m truly honored to share my journey with the LP4Y program. As I begin to write this story, I’m reminded of the most unexpected beginning, my parents meeting in a place no one would ever dream of: JAIL . It was an unlikely place for love, but their connection sparked something beautiful . I grew up without my father by my side for the first 21 years of my life. But in the face of that absence, my mother became my rock . Her unwavering love and determination shaped me into the woman I am today. Looking back , my journey from challenge to entrepreneurial has been far from easy , but every step has been worth it. And today, as a businesswoman managing my growing small business, I can proudly say: LP4Y changed my life. It was a game-changer , more than just a program, it was a turning point. I still remember my first days in the Youth program. It feels surreal to see how far I’ve come . LP4Y equipped me with the skills , confidence , and vision to step into the professional world . It helped me define my life project plan , and today, I am living that dream . The program focused not only on career skills but also on personal growth , mentorship , and real-world experience . It gave me the solid foundation I needed to stand on my own and chase my ambitions. To the companies and organizations out there: If you’re considering hiring excluded Youth, do it. The talent , passion , and dedication are already there. All they need is someone to believe in them . LP4Y taught me that with the right support, anyone can rise. These young people bring new ideas , fresh perspectives , and unstoppable drive . By investing in them, you’re not just changing lives, you’re building a stronger future for your company and community. When I started working at my first company, they welcomed me with open arms . They saw my potential and gave me space to grow. It wasn’t always easy, but it was worth every moment. That supportive environment helped me evolve, even though my path eventually led me in a different direction—towards entrepreneurship. If I could go back, there are five things I wish I had known before joining LP4Y: Be open to learning  – Growth is a journey, not a destination. Embrace every lesson. Don’t be afraid to ask for help  – You don’t need to have all the answers. You have a team behind you. Network, network, network  – Opportunities often come from the people you meet. Build those connections. Believe in yourself  – Even when it’s hard, trust your potential. You are capable of amazing things. Take calculated risks  – Step out of your comfort zone. That’s where the magic happens. You might be wondering how I made it through the six-month training and what happened next. The truth is, the hardest part was finding the right fit afterward . I started in a virtual assistant agency, but it didn’t align with my passion for starting my own business. Still, I don’t see it as a failure . It was a lesson . It helped me understand what I truly wanted. It taught me resilience , flexibility , and how to stay open to possibilities . LP4Y didn’t just give me skills, it gave me courage. It taught me to dream boldly , and to go after those dreams with everything I have. With hard work, determination, and the right support system, anything is possible. So to those of you thinking about joining the program or supporting young people like me: Don’t hesitate. Take the leap. Believe in yourself or believe in someone who just needs a chance. You’ll be amazed at the impact that one opportunity can make. In closing, I want to thank LP4Y from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for believing in me when I didn’t yet believe in myself. Thank you for giving me the tools to build a life I’m proud of. If you’re looking for a program that can truly transform your life, or the life of someone you care about, look no further than LP4Y. It’s a journey that will challenge you, inspire you, and empower you to reach your full potential . Judy Ann Abasola - STAR from GV C

My name is Thin Lai Phyu, and I am proud to share my story of career transformation . Before I joined LP4Y, I was working as a sales assistant at Capital Hypermarket. It was a difficult and exhausting job, and I didn’t feel like I was growing or moving toward a better future . Back then, I didn’t really know what I liked, what kind of job suited me, or what I was truly passionate about. I used to focus only on earning money, not on finding a meaningful or fulfilling career. But everything changed after I joined LP4Y. Through the program, I started to discover myself . I realized that I enjoy talking to people, helping others, and working in a team. That’s when I began to see my dream job more clearly . I wanted to work in a field where communication and teamwork are essential. So I started to focus on improving my communication skills. I asked my coaches for guidance and support, and I followed their advice carefully. I trained hard and built up the skills I needed for the job I really wanted. During my time at LP4Y, I developed valuable skills, including computer literacy, public speaking, English speaking, and teamwork. Most importantly, my communication abilities improved significantly. Now, I am working at Daraz Myanmar (Shop App MM) as a Customer Digital Service Representative. I finally have a professional job that I love, where I can use my strengths every day. I feel confident working with my colleagues, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Now I have find my way , my purpose , and I believe in myself . I am deeply thankful for this life-changing experience.

When her father walked away from the family, Nushrat Tasmia A Jahan, the eldest child, refused to give up . Faced with uncertainty and the pressure to return to her village, she made a bold choice: stay in Dhaka and take control of her future. With determination and a strong sense of responsibility, Nushrat committed herself fully to building a better life. In just a few months, she earned a managing position in a supermarket. Today, she supports her entire family and proves that youth empowerment in Bangladesh begins with courage and perseverance.

Jesmin Akter journey is a true example of the transformation of life through integration, showing how support and opportunities can change everything. She was born in Thakurgaon, a poor and remote area in northern Bangladesh. Her life was full of struggles from the very beginning. She lost both of her parents when she was just a child. With no one to take care of her, she was sent to an orphanage. In the orphanage, she had food and a place to sleep, but not much more. No one expected anything from her. People said: Just be happy you are alive. Don’t dream too big. But deep inside, Jesmin had a small hope . She believed that maybe, just maybe, her life could be different . One day, she heard about LP4Y from someone who cared. At first, she was scared.  Will they accept someone like me? I’m just a poor orphan girl? But she decided to try. And that brave step changed her life . At LP4Y, people didn’t feel sorry for her. They saw her as strong , smart , and full of potential . Her coaches said, Jesmin, we believe in you. You can do this. She started learning things she had never done before , how to use a computer, how to speak professionally, how to write emails and do interviews. It was hard. She failed many times. But the team at LP4Y always helped her stand up again. Slowly, Jesmin started believing in herself. She became more confident. She started to dream bigger. She was no longer just a n orphan, she was becoming someone with purpose and hope. Then one day, she got a job offer from Abul Khayer & Company Limited . She looked at the letter with tears in her eyes. Is this real? Did I really get a job? Yes, she did. At first, she was nervous. A new office, new people, new work. But everything she learned at LP4Y gave her support.Now , she earns her own salary, takes care of her needs, and walks with pride. LP4Y supported me to find my voice. Now, I want to study more and support other children like me. If I can do it, others can too. Today, Jesmin is not just an orphan girl. She is a strong, confident young woman . Jesmin Akter - Youth from TDC Dhaka, Bangladesh

Located in the middle of the densely populated Kampung Sawah suburb, North Jakarta, the Training Development Center (TDC) of Jakarta is well established. The building belongs to the Atmabrata Foundation under Bruder Petrus, who also serves as our LP4Y Indonesia leader. The building was donated by a Rotary Club and was initially intended for vocational training in automation. Long story short, when John Delaporte visited the place for the first time, he fell in love. Like a paddle meeting the current (a perfect opportunity), Bruder Petrus warmly welcomed LP4Y to operate and run the program in this center starting in 2016. Since then, it has become a center for community empowerment in one of Jakarta’s most vulnerable areas. The center is strategically located and surrounded by vulnerable communities . It’s not only in the heart of a slum area but also close to fishing villages, red-light districts, and drug-trafficking zones. It's also not far from Tanjung Priok Station, which is widely known as a drug distribution hub. Moreover, this area is part of the coastal community where many people work peeling shellfish ( pengupas kerang ). Most of the people living here are migrants who come to Jakarta in search of a better life without any skills or diplomas. They start from scratch on the streets, living communally with fellow survivors. It’s common to see multiple families packed into a single house or people sleeping under bridges or on sidewalks. Like a breath of fresh air, the presence of TDC Jakarta has become a blessing for people living under such harsh conditions. I believe no one would choose to live this way unless life gave them no other choice. In Indonesia, when we talk about equality , the idea of welfare still feels far from reality. Many people suffer in rural areas while everything is centralized in major cities like Jakarta. The wage gap can be three times higher compared to smaller towns . We cannot label these people as the main contributors to Jakarta’s poverty. They are welfare seekers as individuals forgotten by the government, whose lives have been structurally impoverished. TDC is not just a place where Youth learn to become professionals nor just where they train to wake up early, start at 8 AM, go home at 5 PM, learn computer skills, and practice English with their coaches. These things might sound familiar, especially if you ask Youth what they’ve learned from LP4Y. You’ll often hear: "I learned computer skills, English, and teamwork." Beyond that, TDC is more than just a training center. It is a place Youth have dreamed of . As someone born in a village, I wish there had been a TDC in mine. Life pulses here . This is where Youth dare to dream again, where previously silenced voices are now heard , where Youth grow into leaders , and where th e community can access knowledge that is shared by Youth and our partners through advocacy activities and job training. For example, just recently, Servier Indonesia conducted medical checkups for elderly residents in Kampung Sawah, targeting over 50 participants. And this wasn’t a one-time event. Previously, organizations such as Yayasan Anak dan Perempuan, Rohto Laboratories Indonesia , Essilor , and North Jakarta International School conducted similar programs on various important topics, including HIV/AIDS screenings, regular health checkups, hygiene workshops on female reproductive health, and more. TDC has also become a safe space for children to learn English through thematic lessons. This activity is called the “ Café Project ”, an initiative to engage Kampung Sawah residents in creative and inclusive community activities. TDC has even been used as a Zumba venue for the local women too. There is so much to explore in a training center. We try to nurture the community’s sense of ownership , seeing TDC as an asset that can help improve their quality of life through job training and programs designed to address the challenges they face. TDC Jakarta is also well-liked by residents because it sells gallons of clean drinking water, something highly needed by the community, especially when clean water access is limited. Have I told you about the flooding that happens in Kampung Sawah? It frequently affects the center and the surrounding area due to rising sea levels and heavy rains. Poor drainage systems only worsen the situation. This is a community where trash is often burned or thrown indiscriminately and it is blocking waterways that make floods everywhere.  In 2024, Servier Indonesia, through the Mecenat Foundation, provided funding to LP4Y for major renovation works in response to this emergency. We finally managed to raise the center’s floor by about 20 - 25 cm to prevent flood water from entering the premises. For years, TDC had suffered from water damage, which affected computers, other equipment, and most importantly, posed serious safety risks to Youth during training. And here’s another piece of happy news from TDC that this year, we received in-kind podcast equipment donations from MANE for a podcast project and it will be launched soon. Hopefully, it will be even more useful for the community!

Hello everyone, my name is Sherdon Zabate Delossantos. I am 23 years old and I live in Barangay Guadalupe, Sapangdaku. Today, I want to open my heart and share my life story, how I rose from the darkest moments of my past and found new hope and transformation through the program. I am the eldest of four siblings. I grew up with nothing , not even the simple joy of spending time with my family. I never knew what true happiness felt like . I grew up in the streets, surrounded by friends who were just like me, all trying to survive . At a young age, I was forced to become the provider for my siblings because my father was in prison. I worked hard , doing anything I could just to feed them . I forgot about myself. All I ever thought about was keeping my family alive. I was arrested. That first time in jail shattered me . I lost all hope . I thought my life was over. No one was left to support my siblings, and I felt useless. My spirit was crushed . But after four years, I was released. Sadly, I returned to the only life I knew, surviving through crime . I committed hold-ups, sold drugs, anything just to make money for my siblings. Still, I never thought about my own future. I just wanted to make up for the years I had lost with them. Then, I was caught again and sent to Lapu-Lapu City Jail. That moment broke me even more. I felt like there was no more hope left . I almost gave up on myself completely. But then, something changed. One day, a friend asked me "Do you want to study?" I said, “I don’t have time for that. I never went to school” But he told me about LP4Y (Life Project 4 Youth) and the opportunities it gives to people like me. That moment awakened something inside me. I became curious . I became hopeful . I took a leap of faith . I joined LP4Y. That’s when a new chapter in my life began . At first, it wasn’t easy. I struggled because I had no education. Everything was taught in English, and I found it so hard. But I told myself, “If I truly want to change, I need to fight for it.”  And so I did. I worked hard . I gave my best . I refused to give up , because for the first time, I could see a better future. It gave me something I never had before: hope , direction , and belief in myself . They taught me how to build a career, how to speak professionally, how to use a computer, how to deal with problems, and most importantly, how to dream again. I used to think my story was already over . I thought I had no place in this world. But LP4Y showed me that it’s never too late to change. Now, I am proud to say, I finished the training and am now part of Alumni or Stars . I have goals , I have a plan , and I know who I want to become a Doctor  to help the poor people in this world . To anyone out there who feels lost, who feels like life has no more meaning, please don’t give up . You are not alone. Even if you’ve made mistakes, even if you feel like the world has turned its back on you.  I am the living proof that change is possible . I was once a street kid, a prisoner, a lost soul. Now, I am a man with purpose . Now my life has direction. I now know how to support my siblings in the right way, with honesty and dignity. And to those who are struggling: Believe in yourself . Start small . Keep going . Your story is not over. Just like me, you too can rise again . Trust yourself and believe in yourself. Change starts with hope . Hope gives us energy and motivation to move forward in life. If you give up or stop believing in yourself, you won’t have the strength to improve your life. Don’t let past struggles define who you are. Instead of being controlled by pain or mistakes, use them as a reason to grow stronger and keep going. Remember, your thoughts influence your actions. If your mindset is negative and you only focus on your problems, you won’t move forward.  A hopeless mind leads to a stuck life, but a hopeful heart can lead to change.