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- From Self-Doubt to Self-Belief: Sana Khan's Story
By Sana Khan | STAR in TDC Mumbai, India Sana Khan My name is Sana Khan, and I am from Azmi Nagar, Malwani, Mumbai. I studied up to the 10th standard, and like many young girls, I had dreams that felt bigger than the world around me. I always dreamed of becoming financially independent and one day starting my own business. But there was one thing that held me back: I was incredibly shy. Even speaking in front of a few people made me nervous, and I never believed I was capable of achieving something meaningful. A mother's dream begins with giving her child a better tomorrow Life took an unexpected turn after I got married. I was blessed with a beautiful daughter, but my married life did not work out as I had hoped. With no other option, I returned to my parent’s home with my little girl. Those were some of the darkest days of my life. I carried fear, uncertainty, and countless questions about the future. How would I raise my daughter? How would I support her? Would I ever be able to stand on my own feet? In those difficult moments, I realized that I could not let my circumstances define my future. I needed to become financially independent-not just for myself, but for my daughter, who looked at me with hope every single day. That was when I heard about LP4Y (Life Project 4 Youth). I didn't know then that one decision to join the program would completely change my life. Walking into LP4Y for the first time, I was still the same quiet, hesitant girl who doubted herself. Speaking in front of others felt impossible. I was afraid of making mistakes and worried about what people would think of me. My journey began in the Learning & Development department, where I learned to create presentations and speak in front of groups. At first, every presentation felt like climbing a mountain. My hands would shake, my voice would tremble, and I wanted to give up. But the coaches and Catalysts at LP4Y never gave up on me. They encouraged me every single day, reminding me that confidence is built one step at a time. Slowly, something inside me began to change. Turning the struggles into strength, and her voice into a tool for change. Presenting to community members and school children helped me discover a voice I never knew I had. Every presentation made me stronger. Every challenge made me more confident. Later, I joined the Human Resources department, where I learned communication, mobilization, attendance management, budgeting, teamwork, and other professional skills. I also improved my English, computer knowledge, interview skills, and workplace readiness through internships and company visits. These experiences did more than prepare me for employment-they prepared me for life. After completing the program, I proudly secured my first job at Talent Enterprise Organization, where I managed appointment scheduling over the phone. For someone who was once afraid to speak, this was a moment I never imagined possible. A milestone she'll always cherish—Sana's first step into the professional world Today, I work with Doctor For You as a Community Volunteer under UNICEF's Routine Immunization Program. Every day, I visit families, counsel parents who are hesitant to vaccinate their children, explain the importance of immunization, and encourage them to attend Routine Immunization (RI) camps. Every conversation I have reminds me of how far I have come. The girl who was once too shy to speak now confidently talks to families, builds trust within communities, and helps protect children's health. The communication and mobilization skills I learned at LP4Y have become an important part of my daily work. But my journey is about more than finding a job. Everything I do today is for my daughter. When I look back, I hardly recognize the person I used to be. LP4Y didn't just teach me professional skills. It helped me believe in myself when I couldn't. It gave me confidence, discipline, resilience, and the courage to face life's challenges with hope instead of fear. To every Coach and Catalyst who stood beside me, believed in me, and encouraged me even when I doubted myself: thank you from the bottom of my heart. You didn't just help me find employment; you helped me rebuild my confidence and rediscover my purpose. Today, I know that courage is not about never being afraid. It is about taking one step forward despite the fear. This smile carries the story of resilience, hope, and a future And that one step changed my life forever.
- AS IT TURNS OUT, IT DOESN'T NEED TO BE FOUND: IT MUST BE CREATED.
By Alvi Naura Auliannisa | STAR in TDC Surabaya, Indonesia Alvi Naura Auliannisa My name is Alvi Naura Auliannisa, just call me Alvi. I am 19 years old. Since I was a child, I have lived in a village in Lamongan. Growing up, I was known for my quick smile and my excitement for everything I did. I have always held high aspirations. Despite living a simple life, my parents always encouraged me to be independent, to be brave enough to chase my dreams, and to work hard to make them a reality. Since I was little, my dream was to work at Bank Indonesia. In vocational high school, I chose to major in Accounting, thinking it would be the path to achieving that dream. After finishing secondary education, I fought hard to secure a scholarship for university. However, that very dream eventually broke me, and I tried to erase it from my life entirely. At that point, I replaced the idea of 'university' with 'hard work.' After graduating high school, I decided I would look for any job I could find. After graduation, my father, knowing how much I truly wanted to attend university, insisted that I go. I loudly replied: "NO." Seeing my father’s aging face, I felt pity, l couldn't bear the thought of him having to finance two daughters through state universities. Confused, my father asked, "What will become of your future then?" The next day, he found information about a job training program called LP4Y located in Surabaya. He rushed to tell me and told me to go there immediately the following morning. Were there tears after that? No. Reflection? Yes. I began to redefine what life meant to me, and it all came back to my father and mother. Making them happy became my purpose. Building confidence through public speaking-one presentation at a time During that period of being 'aimless,' I felt as if I was walking through an empty, dark room without a sense of direction. But after finding LP4Y, I found a path. Through the Catalysts, I didn't just find light: l began to create it. This is where I am growing to be confident. Although it is a long process, I believe I can do it with the guidance of the Catalysts who encourage me daily and convince me to believe in myself. They are the light ahead, guiding me as I walk. In my heart, I whispered, "Yes, this is my purpose to make them happy in their old age." That light guides me through the dark room. Even if I trip, slip, or step on a nail along the way, at least now I know the direction and the destination. The passion for living and a clear life purpose are like a pair of flip-flops, if one is missing, the other becomes useless. I don't know if these words resonate with your life, but I hope there is something beneficial here for you. To me, purpose is not something to be found, but something to be created. Purpose can come from anywhere. Don't look too far for grand goals that seem out of reach. Sometimes, a life purpose is created from what is closest to us, things we often forget to notice. I chose this title because I realized that life’s purpose isn't always something grand or far-fetched, like a high-ranking position at a bank. Instead, it is something close and tangible: being devoted to my parents. I am 'creating' the meaning of my life through the love I have for my father and mother, rather than seeking it through the validation of a degree or social status. And now, after a long journey, I’ve finally found a proper job. I'm working as a sorting operator in the production department at PT Veolia Services Indonesia. I feel so grateful and happy for this opportunity. Dreams turning into reality ! Happy Alvi Naura Auliannisa on her first job at PT Veolia Services Indonesia I hope this new environment will be a place where I can learn, grow, and make a positive impact. The past journey wasn't easy, but today's result makes everything worth it. Ready to face new challenges with the best energy! I truly hope to give my best contribution to the company for the long term and grow alongside everyone at PT Veolia Services Indonesia. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported me, especially to LP4Y and PT Veolia Services Indonesia for granting me this precious opportunity. Sharing smiles with her co-workers at PT Veolia Services Indonesia
- Discovering My Dreams, Building My Future
By Akari Khaing | Youth in TDC Yangon, Myanmar Akari Khaing My name is Akari Khaing, and my religious name is Jasmine. I am 19 years old and I live in Yangon. I dropped out of school in 2020 because of the Covid 19 virus. After that, there was a problem in our country which affected the political situation. I live with my mother. I have two sisters. Now I am working at Mintha Care Trade coLtd as an Admin Intern. I first heard about this training in July 2025 from STAR Ma Shay at LP4Y. After that, I became interested and searched more about LP4Y. I joined the training on August 18th, 2025. When I first joined LP4Y, I did not have any dreams. I also did not know what I wanted to become in the next 5 or 10 years. I was not sure about my life plans. But after joining LP4Y, I slowly understood what I want for my future. My dream for the next 5 years is to become a cosmetic founder. My life is different from others because I have a person who should be called a father, but was not there for me like a real father. However, my mother is a very special person to me. She faced many difficulties in her life, but she still supported me and my sisters with our education. She gave us knowledge and always tried her best to give us a good life. My older sisters also guided and taught me like my mother. That is why I love my mother and sisters very much. My mother is my strength and she always taught me to be interested in my future goals and your dreams. From LP4Y, I learned many skills and became more confident. I improved my communication skills, problem-solving skills, management skills, data analysis skills, leadership skills, project leader skills, and teamwork skills. When I did not know what to do in my life, LP4Y helped me see my dreams and goals clearly. I am very thankful to LP4Y and the Coaches. I trust myself more now and that changed everything.
- A Journey of Learning and Growth
By Milima Shrestha | Youth in TDC Kathmandu, Nepal Milima's Graduation My name is Milima Shrestha, and I am 29 years old from Kathmandu, Nepal. Before joining LP4Y in January 2025, I had no clear career plan and spent most of my time at home. One day, I learned about LP4Y through my neighbor, and with my family's support, I decided to join the program. At LP4Y, I gained many professional and personal skills that helped shape my future. In the Communication and Marketing Department, I learned how to prepare certificates, write reports, create newsletters, send professional emails, take meeting minutes, and design resumes using Canva. In the Human Resources Department, I learned how to support youth management, create ID cards, and organize schedules using Excel. Through various trainings and workshops, I also improved my communication, presentation, teamwork, and computer skills. Milima at work One of the most valuable lessons I learned at LP4Y was confidence. I learned how to present in front of others, participate in interviews professionally, and communicate effectively in a work environment. LP4Y also taught me perseverance, resilience, and the importance of continuing to learn and grow. Some of my favorite memories include celebrating Holi, participating in E-Day performances, presenting my Life Project Plan, and co-hosting the Graduation Ceremony. These experiences helped me develop confidence and strengthen my teamwork and leadership abilities. Today, I am working as a Home Measurement Editor at Veritacore Nepal. The skills, professional behaviors, and work ethics I learned at LP4Y continue to support me in my daily work. LP4Y helped me believe in myself and prepared me for the professional world. Milima's Entrepreneur Graduation In the future, I dream of becoming a successful entrepreneur and opening my own stationery shop. I hope to create opportunities not only for myself but also for others. To young people considering LP4Y, I strongly encourage you to join. LP4Y provides valuable skills, professional exposure, company visits, and opportunities to discover your potential. It is a place where you can grow, learn, and prepare for your future. The thing I am most proud of is how much I have grown, both personally and professionally. LP4Y gave me the confidence, guidance, and opportunities to build a brighter future, and for that, I will always be grateful.
- Rejection, Growth, and the Confidence to Succeed
By Valencia Putri Bilqhis | Star in TDC Surabaya, Indonesia My name is Valencia, and I am an LP4Y alumni, or as we are called here, a STARS. I would like to share a little about my life journey and how Life Project 4 Youth completely changed the direction of my life. When I look back, my journey has not always been easy. I had to stop attending university because of my family’s financial situation, and later I decided to move to another city. There, I spent quite a long time unemployed. My family tried to build a business, but it faced many ups and downs, especially during the COVID 19 pandemic. At that time, I felt that something was missing. I wanted to work, to grow, and to move forward. However, the reality was that every job application I submitted ended in rejection. Eventually, I reached a point where I completely lost my sense of direction. I was confused, doubtful, and unsure of what step to take next. Then, my cousin Aldo, who is also an LP4Y alumnus, suggested that I join LP4Y. At first, I refused. I thought the training program was too long. But three months later, I made a decision that would ultimately change my life, and I joined. Honestly, everything I found there exceeded my expectations. I realized something very important: the reason I kept getting rejected was not because I lacked ability, but because I was not prepared, especially for job interviews. I did not know how to answer questions properly, I often felt nervous, and sometimes I answered without thinking carefully. At LP4Y, I was trained. We regularly practiced interviews, including sessions with Catalysts from different countries. Through these experiences, I learned not only how to answer questions effectively, but also how to communicate with confidence, even in English. The transformation was real. Within just three months, I gained not only valuable skills but also confidence in myself. What impressed me the most was not only the program itself, but also the people, the Catalysts and fellow Stars who constantly supported and encouraged one another to grow together. To make a long story short, I started working at Laritta Bakery, a well known bakery in Surabaya, earning the Surabaya minimum wage after only three months in LP4Y. Although I did not stay there for long due to personal reasons, I was determined not to return to square one. I continued searching for opportunities and eventually found one at Decathlon. I was accepted and immediately shared the exciting news with my Catalysts. Interestingly, at the same time, LP4Y was planning a partnership with Decathlon. It felt like a meaningful coincidence. However, my journey was not over yet. Just before joining, I was presented with a work contract that did not align with my personal principles. At the same time, another opportunity appeared at Veolia Services Indonesia. I was extremely conflicted because I knew this decision could shape my future. At that moment, I was at a critical crossroads. If I failed, I would have had to leave Java and start over from scratch in Batam. After carefully considering my options many times, I decided to apply to Veolia. The process was not easy. I made mistakes along the way, including sending an email incorrectly. But after seven long days of waiting, the news finally arrived: I was accepted by Veolia. At that moment, I knew that none of my efforts had been in vain. It was not only because I had secured a job, but because I could finally see the results of the journey I had gone through. I had transformed from someone who struggled with interviews into someone who was praised by HR professionals from a major company for communication skills and confidence. That is the change LP4Y brought into my life. LP4Y did not just provide me with skills; it changed the way I see myself and my future. Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to LP4Y, the Catalysts, and all my fellow STARS who have been part of this journey.
- Learning by Doing, Growing with Confidence
By Amal Abdelzain | Youth in TDC Cairo, Egypt My name is Amal Abdelzain. I am 19 years old, and originally from Sudan. I have been living in Al Dokky, Cairo since March 3rd, 2023. I joined LP4Y in January and I am currently in management step. I am working in the HR and finance department. Before, I used to work in the Learning & Development department and the Partnerships department. Before LP4Y I was studying at the Faculty of Pharmacy in Sudan. I completed an internship with Terre Des Hommes, where I received training in life skills and community initiative implementation. I also contributed to the 'Dose of Hope' initiative, which provides treatment and medications for diabetes patients. In addition, I received training in food safety, hygiene, and hospitality at Ehdo Company, and worked as a Commis Chef at Novotel El Borg Cairo. Finally, I received training in computer and administrative skills. I was struggling to find a job due to my lack of practical experience, and limited professional networking. I joined LP4Y to gain more skills, improve my communication, and gain confidence in speaking English fluently without fear in order to find a decent job. Throughout the program, I learned new skills like project management, and I have developed strong skills in communication, time management, and computer skills. I have changed my mindset, it makes me more prepared for challenges, and improved my English speaking skills. During my training, I had the opportunity to complete a two-week training with EACD as project coordinator. What I liked most about LP4Y is the supportive environment that fosters learning by doing. The organization truly empowers young people by giving them the platform to gain real experience and shoulder real responsibilities, which is essential for meaningful professional development . The training in the organization has helped me change clearly. For example, I have gained a lot of confidence in myself and my abilities, and I have become more capable of handling challenges effectively such as solving unexpected problems. After, I will be going back to Sudan. I think I will remember many things about LP4Y such as the beautiful relationship I built with my colleagues, team-building activities and my favorite moment was the lunch together because it was a nice moment that brought the team together and helped us get closer outside of work.
- From Uncertainty to Confidence
By Dipa Chaudhary | STAR in TDC Kathmandu, Nepal After completing my studies, I found it very difficult to manage my personal expenses as I had no job or work experience. Even with my +2 degree, I lacked the skills and confidence to secure a proper job. I felt lost, pressured to support my family, and unsure about my future. At first, my family was also confused and questioned my decision to join LP4Y. But I explained the opportunity to them, and slowly they began to support me as they saw my growth. I joined LP4Y in 2019, and this journey truly changed my life. The most important things I learned were confidence, professionalism, teamwork, and time management. I also developed strong computer skills in MS Word and Excel. During my training, I had the opportunity to do a 2-week internship at Kasthamandap, where I handled billing, expense records, and design work. This experience helped me become more responsible and understand real workplace expectations. LP4Y gave me direction, confidence, and the courage to believe in myself. It helped me grow both personally and professionally. Today, I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Studies and I am currently working as an accountant at B Four Engineering and Construction. Before this, I worked with Express Eats and UG Cakes as an accountant, and also gained experience as a logistics officer. My goal is to grow further and become a strong and skilled accountant. Dipa in Paris at Agora, LP4Y's 15th Anniversary To young people, I would say do not hesitate to join LP4Y. It is a place where you learn, grow, and discover your potential. It helps you build confidence, communication skills, and a clear path for your future. What I am most proud of is being part of the LP4Y journey since 2019 and representing Nepal at the 15th Anniversary celebration in France (Agora). I am still connected as a Star Club member, and I truly value being part of this community. LP4Y did not just give me skills, it made me believe in myself. LP4Y STARs in Paris, Agora 15
- If We Strive, Anything is Possible
By Theint Su Nandar Aye | Youth in TDC Yangon, Myanmar Theint Su Nandar Aye (right) with Wah Wah Htwe (left) during Graduation I officially joined LP4Y on December 15th, 2025, and that was the moment my life began to shine. My social anxiety vanished, and I transformed into someone with strong communication skills. LP4Y taught me how to be professional, from the way I dress to the way I carry myself. I have successfully developed a clear Life Project Plan and built many meaningful friendships, breaking my old habit of isolation. Through face-to-face sessions with my coaches, my goals became even clearer. I gained essential skills, including: Communication & English Skills Management & Leadership Skills Time Management Professional Soft Skills & Hard Skills My confidence grew further when I was elected as a Team Leader by my peers. A significant milestone for me was on April 21st, 2026, when I gave a solo presentation about LP4Y in front of 45 visitors from Dayamit College. Overcoming that challenge made me realize that I am capable of anything if I try. Currently, I am serving as the leader of the Communication and Marketing Team. I now know where I belong and feel fully prepared for the professional world. As I enter the Job Search phase, I am determined to find a professional role that fits my skills. I have always admired the STARs of the program, and I am working hard to become one myself. My goal is that by June 15, 2026, when I complete the LP4Y program, I will be working in a professional career that truly suits me. To my fellow LP4Y Youths, I want to say: There is nothing we cannot do. If we strive, anything is possible.
- LP4Y Didn't Just Train Me: It Transformed Me
Testimony written by Sana Khan for Lacoste's Center Visit | Youth, TDC Malwani, India Sana Khan Good morning everyone, My name is Sana Khan, and today I would like to share how Life Project 4 Youth (LP4Y) has played an important role in transforming my life. There was a time in my life when I was going through a very challenging phase personally and emotionally. I was facing uncertainty, self-doubt, and many responsibilities at a young age. During that time, becoming part of LP4Y was not just an opportunity; it was a turning point for me. LP4Y is not just a training center; it is a place where young people are prepared for professional life with dignity and confidence. The organization focuses on developing employability skills and helping Youth become independent and self-reliant. But beyond skills, LP4Y builds character, discipline, and belief. At the center, learning was not limited to theory. We experienced a real work-like environment where punctuality, responsibility, and teamwork were part of our daily routine. Through different activities and projects, I developed important skills such as communication, English speaking, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and time management. We were also trained in practical areas like CV preparation, interview skills, professional behavior, and workplace ethics. These were not just lessons: they were life tools that prepared us for the real world. What made the biggest difference for me was the support of the coaches and mentors. They did not only teach us skills; they believed in us. They encouraged us when we doubted ourselves. They reminded us that our past situations do not define our future. That mindset shift changed everything for me. Through LP4Y, I gained self-confidence and a positive outlook towards life. I started believing that I am capable of building a stable and successful future for myself and for my daughter. Today, I am working, I am planning my career growth, and I am making strong decisions with confidence, and LP4Y has a major contribution in that journey. LP4Y helped me not only professionally but personally. It helped me grow as a strong, independent woman who believes in continuous learning and self-improvement. In conclusion, LP4Y did not just train me: it transformed me. It gave me direction, structure, and hope. And for that, I will always be grateful.
- Dare to Dream, Brave to Try
By Fit Nabila | STAR, TDC Surabaya, Indonesia Nabila works as a Barista at Kroesel House of Coffee (LP4Y Partner) My name is Fit Nabila. I am 19 years old and I come from a simple family. Since I was a child, I have been used to living with limited economic conditions. I grew up seeing my parents work very hard every day just to support our family. They always try their best to give everything they can for me. However, as I grew older, my parents’ health started to decline, and they often got sick. Around the same time, before my high school graduation announcement, I applied for SNBP (college test) because I really hoped I could continue my studies at university. Unfortunately, I did not pass. Actually, I really want to go to college. But when I saw my family’s financial condition at that time, I felt that it was not possible yet. With a heavy heart, I decided to work first. But honestly, I didn’t know where to start. Before I joined LP4Y, I felt like my life was just flowing without any clear direction. I lived day by day thinking, “Maybe this is just how my life will be.” I also often felt like giving up easily whenever I faced failure. It was hard for me to truly believe in myself. At one point, I got a freelance job at a hotel. Even though the experience didn’t last long, I was still grateful because it taught me about responsibility. Then I found LP4Y, a training center that became a turning point in my life. There, I didn’t just learn about work skills, but I was also encouraged to dream. We were asked to create a Life Project Plan, a plan for our future that made me realize that the future is something we have to fight for, not just wait for.I learned about leadership, public speaking, building self-confidence, time management, and also how to plan short-term and long-term goals. Slowly, my mindset started to change. Nabila at Kroesel Coffee Academy One of the trainers once told me, “Don’t give up. Maybe you try 99 times and fail, and then you try one more time. The courage to try again is already a success.” That sentence became my life principle. Since then, I am no longer afraid of failure. I learned that success is not only about the result, but also about the courage to keep trying. After finishing the program at LP4Y, I got the opportunity to work as a barista at Kroesel House of Coffee, which is one of LP4Y’s partners. In this place, I met coworkers who became a support system for me. I don’t just work there, but I also keep learning and growing. Right now, I am working while preparing myself for the UTBK exam so that I can get into a public university. My biggest hope in 2026 is to continue my education at a state university and help improve my family’s economic condition. My journey may not be finished yet. But now I know that my life is no longer about just going with the flow. It’s about daring to dream, daring to try, and never giving up.
- From Fear to Courage: My Real-Life Transformation
By Ranjana Chaudry | STAR, Green Village Budhanilkantha, Nepal Ranjana during Graduation There was a time when fear controlled my life, fear of failing, fear of speaking up, and fear of believing in myself. But gradually, I learned to face it. Every small effort made me stronger. My name is Ranjana Chaudhari. I am 23 years old and a member of Batch 37 of Green Village Nepal. My hometown is Lumbini Province, Dang, Nepal. From a young age, I wanted to make a difference in my life. I faced many limitations, people doubted me, and I feared failure. But I always wanted to learn and move forward. After joining LP4Y, my perspective completely changed. Here, I learned to face my fears, turn my weaknesses into strengths, and take small steps to build my confidence. Today, I understand that the journey was not easy, but every challenge made me stronger. I move forward not only with hope for my own future but also with the belief that I can be an inspiration for other youth. I am now writing about my life journey at LP4Y. I joined LP4Y in February 2024. At that time, my life was full of uncertainty. I didn't know where to go, what to do, or what my future would be like. But after coming to LP4Y, my perspective completely changed. Before joining LP4Y, I was full of uncertainty and fear. My confidence was almost zero. I had no idea about working in a company, and I couldn’t even identify my own skills and qualities. The hardest part was that I didn’t dare to speak in public. I often stayed quiet and didn’t express my thoughts because of fear. But after joining LP4Y, my journey began. Here, I learned to believe in myself, face challenges step by step, and gradually build my confidence. My most memorable time in LP4Y was participating in yoga with Puja, meeting Simran face-to-face, and visiting the Horticulture Expo. I also traveled with Simran and Salome (Catalyst) along with our Sustainable Development Micro-Company team. We learned broom-making, cutting, and table-making together with Salome. My most challenging time in LP4Y came when I was made the team leader of the Sustainable Development Micro Company. At first, I felt very uncomfortable. I didn’t know how to manage my team, how to run the work, or how to communicate with other Micro Companies and the community. Every day brought a new challenge; some tasks were delayed, and understanding with some team members was difficult. But I didn’t give up. I took small steps, planned carefully, supported my team, and practiced open communication. Gradually, I became confident, and my team also supported my efforts. GV Budhanilkantha Team, Graduation After joining LP4Y, I learned to face the challenges of life. Step by step, I became stronger and more confident. The most important thing I learned at LP4Y was how to search for a job and succeed in interviews. At first, I was full of fear and uncertainty, but LP4Y taught me confidence and preparation. Today, I have put that learning into practice. I am working as an editor at Veritacore Nepal. Every day, I learn new things, face challenges, and move forward toward my dreams. LP4Y guided me on my journey and empowered me. In the future, I want to fulfill my own dream. I have thought that one day I will open a digital studio. For me, it is not just a business, but also an opportunity to showcase my creativity and abilities. And now I want to say to other Youths who are thinking about joining LP4Y that your decision is a good one. LP4Y is an organization that provides free training to help young people become independent and self-reliant. So please don't hesitate to come at least once, learn many new things, and gain valuable experience.If you are confused about what to do in the future or finding it difficult to decide your career path, it can be a great opportunity for you. And I want to say that to the companies that hesitate to give jobs to Youths like me, please give us a chance first. There is nothing impossible. Nothing in this world is perfect. Once we start doing something, we can achieve anything. The most special thing after joining LP4Y was getting to know many friends. I got the opportunity to visit many companies, and at first, I was afraid to speak in English. But there, I got the chance to interact with external coaches like Morgane, Salome, Augusta, and many others. I had never performed street drama before, but after joining LP4Y, I was able to go into communities and, through drama, deliver messages against violence toward women, which made me very happy.
- Beyond the Screen: Testifying at the UN and the Making of 'I Am the Future'
By Dian Safitri | STAR, TDC Jakarta Dian, Soumayraa, and Laxmi in New York, USA Hello, my name is Dian Safitri, I am 23 years old. I have been an alumnus of LP4Y since 2021. It was such a pleasure for me to be able to join LP4Y for the first time back then during the pandemic. Not gonna lie, joining LP4Y was one of the right paths I chose in my life. At that time, I had just graduated from high school, but I couldn’t continue to university because it was too expensive. Dian at the United Nations, NYC, USA There was a time when I was stuck at home. Then, one of the Catalysts in Kampung Sawah came to see me and asked if I wanted to join LP4Y. She said it’s free, and I could learn many things there. I thought, “Why not? There’s nothing to lose.” Then I came to the center to observe what was happening there. Turns out, I felt this was the right place to spend my time while I was still figuring out how to get a job. I joined training sessions with other Youths, learned about professional behavior, handled small businesses together, and prepared for job searching. My coaches helped me a lot with my resume and cover letter, and guided me on which jobs were good and which were not. They always reminded us that we have our own value. Now I am working at PT Sant Group Indonesia, a perfume company (Crusita and Aoera) as a graphic designer. It’s been more than a year since I joined this company, and I am so happy because I can finally be part of a real creative team, just like what I always wanted. As we saw in the I Am the Future movie, I am one of the characters in the film, from Kampung Sawah, Jakarta. Now I want to share with you what happened during the making of the movie. At first, I was called by one of the coaches, Romain. He told me he wanted to make a movie, and also asked if I wanted to testify at the UN in New York. I was confused but also excited at the same time because I love movies, and I love sharing my story. After that, many things happened at once. I had to prepare my speech for the UN, I had to shoot the movie, and I also had to continue working. Fast forward, I met other stars of the movie, Laxmi and Soumayraa. They were so nice. But unfortunately, Mamadou could not come because of his visa problem, which is one of the struggles faced by refugees in Europe. Youth Visions Team & I Am the Future's characters in New York We testified at the United Nations for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, held at the UN Headquarters. It was such an incredible moment, being able to share a real story from our side as people living in poverty, and to represent my community in Kampung Sawah. Because, as we know, people often talk about poverty, but they don’t always understand how it really feels to live in that position. Finally, about the movie itself: I think it is a good way to spread awareness about the problems we are facing, but at the same time, to show that we still have light in our hearts and passion for life. For example, even though I live in Kampung Sawah, I really love art, especially painting and drawing. Now, the movie has been screened in several cities around France. I even had the opportunity to meet Mrs. Samantha Mane, the CEO of MANE, in Grasse last year for a screening. After screening the movie, we received feedback from people who said it was very inspiring. Many Youths came to me and told me they were inspired by my story. That’s why I really hope this program, Life Project 4 Youth, will continue to support young people, guide them to reach their target jobs, and motivate them to keep moving forward.












