A Life Changing Two Days: When 100 Orphaned and Underprivileged Children Learn to Be Young Leaders

Jakarta, March 22 – On a bright morning at Azana Hotel Jakarta, 100 orphaned and underprivileged children gathered with eager faces. They were there for the 2025 “Initiative Young Leader” Pesantren Kilat, a special program in collaboration between Human Initiative and Paragon Corp. Over two days, the event would become an unforgettable moment for these children.

Miftahuddin Amin, Executive Vice President of Paragon Corp, expressed his appreciation for the program: “We believe every child in Indonesia has the potential to become a future leader. Through this program, we aim to instill leadership values and provide equal opportunities for these children to grow. This is our commitment to building a strong and character-driven young generation.”

Building Leadership and Character

The activities began in the morning with daily worship routines, from Tilawah Quran to Tahajjud prayers. They were taught that “Worship is the foundation of true leadership.” Their pure voices echoed throughout the grand hotel room. Following that, Kang Purwa trained them in public speaking. His goal was to transform these initially shy children into confident speakers.

Next, Mba Arie shared inspiring motivation. She stated,

“Nothing is impossible to achieve. Anyone can succeed as long as they have determination and a spirit of perseverance.”

She also awarded leadership scholarships worth Rp4 million to two selected children. Not stopping there, Kak Alwi added a session on leadership that deeply inspired them. He emphasized that leading oneself is the first step toward true leadership.

In the evening, Ustaz Salman (former member of Sheila On 7) captivated the children with stories of the exemplary life of Prophet Muhammad SAW. With a casual yet profound style, he made the children fall in love with the figure of Rasulullah. Many eyes filled with tears as they listened to the stories of the Prophet’s guidance.

Strengthening Family Bonds

The following day, the mothers joined in a special parenting session. The grand hotel room was filled with both laughter and heartfelt tears. As the children wrote love letters to their mothers, many little hands trembled while writing their sincere words.

“Sorry if I often argue. I love you, Mom,” wrote one child, their handwriting still shaky. The mother couldn’t hold back her tears.

“I didn’t realize how my child felt all this time,” she whispered softly.

During this session, Daddy Febri shared his views on the importance of warm communication within the family. The participants learned how to build stronger relationships with their parents through openness and affection. No less touching, the mothers responded with letters filled with prayers and hopes.

“My child, if one day I am no longer by your side, remember that I will always be proud of you,” wrote one mother with trembling hands.

Boy Mareta, Retail Partnership GM of Human Initiative, also shared his hopes for the program:

“We believe leadership is not just about being at the forefront, but also about having a caring heart and being willing to contribute to others. We hope this program instills these values in children from an early age.”

When the event ended, noticeable changes were seen in every participant. The child who was once shy now confidently greeted others. Those who were reluctant to study the Quran now diligently opened their Mushaf. Parents returned home with a new understanding of the importance of communication within the family.

Thank you to all the parties that supported this program. For those who wish to participate in similar movements, visit solusipeduli.org. Together, we can create even more valuable moments that change the lives of Indonesian children.

This collaboration between Human Initiative and Paragon Corp proves that while two days may seem short, they are enough to plant the seeds of goodness that will continue to grow. Because every child deserves to be a leader, and every act of goodness will surely bear sweet fruit.

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