In a world filled with uncertainty, young people often wonder: Will the path we walk lead us to the dreams we have envisioned?
For Bhumiksara Foundation’s scholarship recipients, its second national gathering in Central Java’s Yogyakarta last June was much more than just a meeting-cum-gathering. It was a moment of growth, reflection, and renewed commitment to become light for others and for Indonesia.
A space for honest self-reflection
The national gathering commenced with an invitation to look inward. In sessions on personal branding, scholars learned that building one’s image is not about appearances alone but about harmonizing values, identity, and purpose.
It challenged these university students from across Indonesia to embrace authenticity, recognizing both strengths and areas for growth while preparing to enter the professional world with integrity. The act of crafting CVs and cover letters was not merely technical but deeply personal—an exercise in narrating their journeys clearly and confidently.
Awakening to Indonesia’s social realities
The gathering also opened their eyes to Indonesia’s current realities. As keynote speaker, Mr. Yanuar Nugroho encouraged participants to discuss structural poverty, environmental degradation, and the erosion of moral values. They were reminded that while darkness exists, hope persists. Criticism of systemic injustice is not an act of hostility but a form of sincere love for the nation—a prophetic call for transformation.
This awakening pushed them to see that personal success is inseparable from social responsibility.
Leadership rooted in spirituality
Beyond intellectual enrichment, the gathering became a space for spiritual renewal through Ignatian spirituality. Participants learned about the Principle and Foundation, the Discernment of Spirits, and the Examen, recognizing that all their studies, future plans, and services are pathways to love and serve God in all things.
In exploring consolation and desolation, they discovered that choosing wisely and acting with integrity are what guide their paths, even amidst life’s uncertainties.
Growing in community and compassion
The Yogyakarta-based spiritual experience was not without emotion. Joy from reunions, new friendships, and insights was accompanied by the bittersweet reality that this was their final national gathering as a cohort.
Yet, stories from alumni and organizers reminded them that Bhumiksara Foundation’s national gathering is not merely about annual meetings—it is a spirit that lives on, calling each scholar to continue walking with others in hope, faith, and service.
Preparing for an uncertain future
In a world where digitalization shapes career opportunities, the gathering underscored the importance of adaptability and a growth mindset. Leadership, they learned, is not a single moment but a lifelong journey of bringing positivity and light into the world.
The scholars reflected on life’s basic needs—safety, belonging, growth—and recognized a deeper calling to be useful and to do good for others, ensuring that while they pursue their dreams, they also uplift those around them.
Becoming salt and light
From the chemistry lab to classrooms, from social discussions to daily encounters, these young scholars are now more prepared to become “salt and light” for the world. They return to their communities with open minds and renewed spirits, ready to embody the values of integrity, compassion, and inclusiveness wherever they are called.
As one participant shared, “Preparing for uncertainty is not about eliminating fear, but about growing in readiness, rooted in faith, and living a life of purpose wherever we are called to serve.”
In this spirit, Bhumiksara Foundation’s scholars continue their journey, carrying forward the hope of a better Indonesia—one small light at a time.
Royani Ping is post-graduate alumni from University of Melbourne, since 2010 Director of Yayasan Bhumiksara and lecturer in Business and Economics Faculty of the Catholic University of Atma Jaya Jakarta
