The fruit of perseverance

Imelda, commonly called Melda, is a 9th grade student at a junior public school in Waingapu, East Sumba. This cheerful girl is also the leader of the Children's Forum East Sumba (FAST), which is assisted by Wahana Visi Indonesia (WVI) operational office in East Sumba. Melda became a team coordinator for Na Anamu Drama, a drama group formed by FAST.

In the 7th grade, a friend of Melda invited her to join the forum. Melda learned that she could express her feelings and give opinions. "Before joining the forum, I was a quiet girl, I did not talk too much. I prefer to be alone rather than hanging out with friends," said Melda whose dream is becoming a fashion designer.

Melda participated in a best young radio broadcaster competition in January 2016 organized by FAST Global Radio FM and SP FM in Waingapu. Melda did not have training before the competition began, but it did not dampen her spirit to join. She had only notes from her friend, but she prepared for the competition anyway.  She was so enthusiastic that she forgot the time while she was practicing, as a result, she was scolded by her mother because she practiced until late at night!

The day arrived when 22 children, including Melda, started the competition.

She had prepared well so that she felt confident. She entered the jury room to deliver her broadcast and the judges liked her performance. Melda won!

She practiced and worked hard to meet her achievement. That is what we call “the fruit of perseverance.”

“I am certainly glad to be the winner. I can use the gift of money to help my mother to buy rice,” Melda said proudly.

*Written by Herlin D. Mapar, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Wahaha Visi Indonesia Operational Office East Sumba