Curiosity, Community, Connection

The Indonesia Semester of Culture and Conservation offered by Where There Be Dragons was truly transformative. It not only allowed me to deeply immerse myself in the rich and diverse Indonesian identity but also fostered an appreciation for the various ways of living and community connections practiced in daily life. Through exploring three distinct homestays in contrasting settings, I gained insights into the history, sociology, and ethics that shape Indonesia today. Witnessing the profound connection to the land within different Indonesian cultures highlighted the importance of standing up for climate justice.

As a non-binary individual, navigating certain aspects was occasionally challenging, but the instructors' consistent check-ins provided valuable support, helping me navigate my experiences effectively. This program served as a steep learning curve, pushing me to question my beliefs surrounding food systems, community challenges, and biases acquired from my identities and upbringing. Overall, it was an eye-opening journey that broadened my perspective and deepened my understanding of Indonesia's cultural richness and environmental concerns.