Seeking to make other people happy

Oka Syawalina, 40,  normally called by her nickname Lina, grew-up in Jakarta, studying through senior high school in Ciracars, East Jakarta.

Lina is lucky because her parents knew the importance of education, although they are only junior and elementary school graduates. Since childhood, Lina dreamed of becoming a teacher.

"If I could make other people happy, I will be happy too."

She married Lim Ibrahim, soon after graduation from senior high school. As a housewife, Lina is active to join activities at Family Welfare Movement, a community family welfare organization, and integrated health post (Posyandu).

When she was active to join Posyandu activities, Lina, and Noneng, a World Vision staff member, noticed that some young children did not attend school. They decided to help establish Anyelir preschool.

To start, Lina worked as administrative assistant at the school, sometimes replaced the teacher when she was absent, helping her become familiar with teaching. Eventually Lina was formalized as a teacher in the preschool.

Later, she studied preschool education, and earned her bachelor degree in English.

Being active in various activities helped Lina care for other people who need support.

"If I could make other people happy, I will be happy too," Lina explains why she is involved. She has to sacrifice time and energy by taking part in many activities, but in return Lina keeps learning and making friends.

*Written by Bartolomeus Marsudiharjo, Field Communications Officer, World Vision Indonesia