Dear AWA Friends,

When I originally moved to Indonesia just a few days after my July 2009 Maryland wedding, I didn’t know anyone except my Australian husband who had already been residing and working here for several years. During my first dismal six months here, I was unsuccessful at making friends with anyone who spoke English well and could relate to my American culture. In retrospect, it seemed as though I had existed under a stone because I was clueless there were other expatriate families living in this metropolis. It wasn’t until I visited our AWA Center that my world changed and I realized there were hundreds of other Americans and foreigners on assignments here. The AWA of Indonesia has truly been my savior, serving as an escape for me to get away from my house, a haven to come to mingle with good companions and meet interesting people, a venue to provide endless opportunities to volunteer at the front desk, thrift store, or at our charity bazaars and events. My abundant memorable experiences at AWA granted me a sense of community and ways to make philanthropic contributions to those who need it the most. 

Now, eight years later, it is with great pleasure that I take on this exciting role as the AWA of Indonesia President. I am extremely grateful to and value each chairperson on our innovative AWA Board. They have meticulously and actively been planning delightful activities, programs, shopping adventures and special events for our expatriate community. It is most rewarding when we, as trailing spouses, maintain our own passions and refuse to live behind the shadows of our partners. We are very capable women (and men) and should always continue to seek out ways to hone in our abilities and stay empowered. Residing here in Jakarta comes with many exciting opportunities and we can be as active as we’d like. I hope you will be involved with, volunteer in, and possibly even help lead our enjoyable activities, interesting presentations, and entertaining fundraising events. 

Jakarta is undoubtedly a fascinating place to domiciliate and the deepest of friendships can be nurtured here. The AWA of Indonesia provides a cornucopia of opportunities for you to create bonds and memories that will last a lifetime. We also proudly promote interest and participation in social welfare of Indonesia. Together, each of us can make a profound difference in the lives of many people who have far less than we do. My goal is to continue to provide financial assistance to our many vetted yayasans and to help local children and young adults boast their self-esteem and confidence through educational programs in order for them to live healthier, happier lives and to one day give back and make an even bigger impact in Indonesia. Every activity we put on, book or article of clothing we sell, and charity bazaar or event we organize has these underprivileged individuals in mind. With your assistance, we will accomplish our mission. Please come join us to chat over coffee and build relationships that are irreplaceable, whether it’s with other expats or with the residents of the yayasans we support. You will enjoy the high level of camaraderie among our members upon your arrival to Jakarta and even years later, after your repatriation. I sincerely thank you for your genuine friendship, lifesaving benevolence, and warm support of AWA and our charities. 

With Gratitude,

Sunshine Biskaps