Litra, an outstanding Papuan youth

Litra was very excited to learn that she would take a journey to Jakarta to meet with Indonesian government representatives such as ministers and house of representative members. She lives in Keerom, and arrived in Jakarta on January 13, 2014.

"Although we are just teenagers, we should fight hard for our rights so the government will understand what we actually need." - Litra

Litra represented her friends in Keerom, previously discussing with her friends at the Keerom Child Forum, about many problems that they have to face as children. Although it was the first time for her to visit Jakarta, Litra didn't fear! She was proud to meet with government representatives, even the Minister.

On January 14, 2015, Litra met with members of Coalition IX, House of Representatives with 14 other youth from across Indonesia through Koalisi Aksi 2015. This coalition is part of Action 2015, a movement that urges global discussion post Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) that will end in 2015. With this movement, it is hoped poverty, injustice, and global climate change could end when government are willing to be involved in the movement.

People in Keerom, a remote area of Papua, have difficulty accessing health services. Litra talked about the major challenges faced by most Papuans with the government officials.

"In Papua, we need to walk miles away on foot to reach a hospital and public health centre. Many children don't get help because of the lack of health facilities," said Litra explaining the problems of Papuans in front of House of Representative members.

Litra, who is also active in the local Child Group, also explained that early marriage was also a problem in Papua. Poverty is the main reason why most parents force their children into early marriage. By marrying richer people, they hope that their lives will get better.

In the Keerom Child Group, which is assisted by World Vision Indonesia, Litra has learned many things including leadership. Litra who was previously shy, can now speak bravely in front of government representatives. She was chosen to represent Papuan children since she has great enthusiasm and high confidence compared to other friends. She wants her voice as a Papuan youth to be heard, so that there will be big changes in the area where she lives.

*Written by Rena Tanjung, Field Communications officer, World Vision Indonesia