In 2013, we found ourselves in an indefinite limbo in Indonesia. Unable to work or study, there was no possibility of resettling in Indonesia. We had a lot of skilled and educated people within our community and we decided to do something for ourselves. Education was our first step to bring people together and we started the Cisarua Refugee Learning Centre (CRLC), the first refugee-led school in Indonesia.
The CRLC was more than a school; it was built on respect, friendship, sharing, and mutual support. It was designed by the whole community – from children to teachers and adults, from different religious and cultural backgrounds – to meet our needs. We all worked together to create a safe space where everyone was welcome and encouraged. Education helped us to keep hope alive and for a refugee hope is the most important thing.
