From Bali to Japan: Arianto’s Story
When Eka Arianto was in grade 10, he never dreamed he would finish his studies at senior high school because of the family’s financial situation. His parents’ income was barely enough to make ends meet. When he was in grade 11, he received the good news. Inspirasia Foundation sponsored him through YKIP KEMBALI Program. This was a big relief for him and his family.
“I got new uniform and shoes, new books and stationery to write and get some pocket money to buy foods at school, something that I never imagined I could have. I always worried that I will never be able to continue my study, but the scholarship changed my view about the future.”
He clearly saw that the scholarship had lifted the burden from his parent’s shoulders and it motivated him to study harder to maintain his scholarship status. When he was in grade 12, he joined Career Day and learned a lot from the event. The information and motivation shared by the speakers really opened his mind.
When he graduated in 2017 from SMA Negeri 3 Karangasem, he realised that finishing school was just the beginning of the new life. He faced the reality that he had to do something to help his parents. When he got the opportunity to work abroad, he gladly accepted it. With his high school diploma, he applied for the job and then received training before he departed for Japan.
“I learned Japanese for almost a year. Not only I need to learn the language, I also need to learn about the Japanese culture and custom. I admit it was really hard in the beginning, but at the end I enjoyed the study. After a year I went to Japan to work as a construction worker.”
In Japan, he faced so many challenges. A new culture, new work ethics and time management. It was a challenge at first, but then he get used to it. After working for a year, his contract ended and he returned to Bali last year. From his income, he could help his parents to pay their debts and helped them renovate their house.
“This is the life that I never imagined before. To be able to work abroad and learnt so many things in Japan is a dream comes true. If it was not because the scholarship I received from YKIP, I would never get my high school diploma, and never be able to apply to work in Japan. It is because the scholarship that I could improve my family economic condition.”
Arianto plans to go back to Japan after he gets a new contract. While waiting for his new contract, he is actively sharing information about job opportunities in Japan to the youth in his community. He also happily provides guidance and assistance to anyone who seeks the opportunity to work in Japan. He said it is his way to pay it forward.
Good luck for your next contract Arianto. Keep up the good work for your community!