Celebrating Independence, Empowering Inclusion: Shaping a Golden and Inclusive Indonesia

In commemoration of Indonesia’s Independence Day 2025, the GEDSI Alumni Network proudly presents an inspiring panel discussion titled ‘Reimagining Freedom and Autonomy of People with Disability for a Truly Inclusive Future.’ Taking place on 28 August 2025, this online event explored how freedom, autonomy, and the rights of people with disability are integral to advancing inclusion and achieving the vision of a golden and inclusive Indonesia.

The first session featured Australian alumni Nurhayati Ratna Sari Dewi  and Hendry Hernowo, who shed light on the experiences of women with psychosocial disability and youth with disability from rural areas. Through powerful personal stories, they highlighted both resilience and the barriers they continue to face. Using pitches, an interactive talk show, and audience Q&A, the session explored how intersecting identities such as gender, disability, and geography shape daily experiences of freedom and autonomy. The panellists also emphasised the importance of supportive systems, shared their aspirations for inclusive development, and offered practical insights for driving community transformation.

The second session, featuring Mohammad Ismail, Dian Agustin, and Fany Efrita Rotua Ritonga, examined how technology, education, and economic participation can advance the autonomy and freedom of people with disability. The discussion explored the role of assistive technologies and digital tools in enabling independent living, the importance of inclusive education in broadening opportunities, and the transformative impact of economic empowerment in fostering self-determination. While acknowledging the progress achieved, the panellists also highlighted the persistent barriers and the urgent need for continued action.

Moderated by Australian alumni and GEDSI Alumni Network Steering Committee representatives Richard Kennedy and Hasrina Sanusi Muliawan, the event created an open and engaging dialogue, united by a shared vision of building inclusive communities where the rights, voices, and aspirations of people with disability are fully recognised and realised.

Bety Herlina, one of the alumni, expressed her excitement at being part of the event: ‘The GEDSI Alumni Network event was more than a gathering; it was a space of deep listening and shared learning. I was especially moved by the discussions around psychosocial disability, a topic that still rarely surfaced in mainstream conversations. The session offered not only new insights but also a moment of personal and professional reflection, prompting me to reexamine how journalistic work can more intentionally centre invisible forms of exclusion. It reminded me that storytelling, when rooted in empathy and nuance, can be a powerful tool for advocacy and transformation.’

Another alumnus, Welhelmus Poek, also shared his enthusiasm: ‘The GEDSI Alumni Network workshop was both inspiring and practical. It deepened my understanding of freedom and autonomy for people living with disability, while also reaffirming our shared responsibility in creating an inclusive future. I left the workshop feeling inspired, connected, motivated, and committed to leading efforts for inclusion in both my work and community.’

Thank you to all who participated. Your support brings us closer to shaping a truly inclusive future.