From Scholars to Change Agents: Insights from the Alumni Reintegration Workshop

Our newly returned Australia Awards scholars came together for a three-day Reintegration Workshop in Jakarta from 12 to 14 October 2023; it was remarkable! From academic achievements to forging lifelong cross-cultural connections, these new alumni have excelled in their journey.

Throughout the event, they actively engaged in reflective exercises to develop and share their scholarship stories, and participated in discussions to help them readjust to life back in Indonesia. They have also participated in exercises to enhance their change agent skills: they have realigned and refocused on their goals, and developed strategies to maintain and build on their Australian networks. 

A highlight was the 'Share Your Research Competition', where PhD graduates had just three minutes to present their ideas. Rexha Verdhora Ry secured the top prize with a captivating presentation on 'Jakarta and Earthquake Hazard: what we know through seismic imaging.'

Rexha expressed his gratitude, saying, "As an academic, it has been a great experience to share my research with Australia Awards alumni! Overall, the reintegration workshop is a good opportunity for alumni to regroup, network, and live our ideas for Indonesia."

The three-day workshop concluded with a musical bang as all participants enjoyed the "Gig on the Green," a music festival filled with melodies, games, and a chance to connect with a broader community of Australia Global Alumni in Indonesia.

We are immensely proud of our alumni and wish them a seamless adjustment to life back home. We're certain their contributions will have a lasting impact on their communities and strengthen ties between Indonesia and Australia!