Zia and Rima

Galleries

Starting Point

The Leader was founded in 2012 by a group of young Acehnese who recognised the need to improve the scant opportunities and spaces available for young people. This condition exists because when it comes to Aceh, the general issues that are usually addressed revolve around development after the tsunami, marijuana fields, and Islamic law. Thus, people rarely discuss the talents of young people. Against this background, this association was established.

Filled with the enthusiasm of young people, it has a mission to educate the public about the principles of peace through engaging and relatable methods that appeal to young people. Its membership comprises 50 people from various backgrounds, including journalists, statisticians, doctors, activists, IT professionals, and vloggers. Currently, The Leader, which began as an association, has evolved into a foundation named 'Yayasan Aksi Satu Mimpi'.

Peace Journey 

One of its programmes for improving the quality of life for youth over the past seven years is the Dreammaker Camp, which encourages young people to dream and achieve their goals. The camp offers a variety of mentoring programmes, including training on how to manifest their goals and voice their concerns. It is also working with the UNICEF Aceh representatives to increase the immunisation rate in Aceh by engaging young people.

Its presence, which carries the spirit of youth and determination, has contributed to dismantling the discrimination against women and the patriarchal perspective that the people of Aceh have endorsed. Its cadres have become agents of change and peace from the smallest line, the family. The cadres refuse to perpetuate patriarchy by not adhering to gender norms, such as not abiding by curfews set for daughters, not complying with gender roles, and refusing to wear skirts, as Aceh women are not allowed to wear pants according to Sharia Law.

Success Stories

With a team composed of young people from diverse backgrounds, The Leader could address a wider range of issues. Starting with tourism and environmental concerns, then extending to health—including mental health—women's empowerment, education, and media campaigns. This journey of tackling various issues has earned The Leader increased recognition, along with collaboration offers from multiple media outlets, including Narasi TV. The Leader and Narasi TV launched the Dear Young Leaders programme, bringing together young Indonesians with ministers.

It has also produced over 16,000 alumni through its Dream Academy programme that has been running for 11 years. Each alum has a career and contributes to their respective field. It proudly acknowledged that many of their alumni introduced and endorsed the programme to the current participants of the Dream Academy. Zia, the current director of The Leader, tearfully recalled how one alumnus sponsored her to finally realise her dream to fly overseas.