Over the past two weeks, I had the honor of traveling with 10 Together Women Rise members to Jakarta, Kalimantan, and Bali, Indonesia. Together, we were immersed in the beauty of the culture, arts, traditions, and cuisine. We cooked with local women in their homes, participated in sacred rituals like a water purification ceremony and a baby naming ceremony, received blessings from a Hindu priest, and supported the local economy by shopping for art, intricate woodwork, and handmade souvenirs. In Chinatown, we took part in a New Year ritual of releasing birds—a symbolic act of hope and renewal. 

But among all these unforgettable moments, the highlight for our group was spending time with two of our Rise grantees. 

After a long journey to Kalimantan, we were welcomed by the warm smiles and heartfelt gratitude of the ASRI/Health in Harmony team. Rise funded Health in Harmony with a Featured Grant in 2012 and then with a three-year Sustained Grant. Waiting in our hotel rooms were beautifully personalized bamboo bags, each containing a tumbler and snacks—a thoughtful touch that immediately made us feel the depth of their appreciation. 

We learned about their successful reforestation efforts in the forests of Sukadana and visited a widow who had received one goat through the Goats for Widows program (which Rise funded). Today, she owns 30 goats—her herd grown through care and dedication. The sale of goats and their manure have helped her support her family and repair her home, offering a profound example of how small investments can change lives. 

We also toured ASRI’s health clinic, joined a daily staff meeting, and shared lunch with their incredible team. Later, we participated in a basket weaving class with local artisans. Though shy at first, the women quickly showcased their talent—skillfully stripping bamboo and transforming it into biodegradable baskets used for planting. 

In Bali, we met the founder of the PKP Community Centre, whose deeply personal story of surviving domestic violence moved all of us. From that pain grew purpose—she now dedicates her life to helping women who have long been overlooked and unheard in their communities. 

At Bumi Sehat, which Rise funded in 2014, we heard life-changing stories of safe and compassionate childbirth. Since 1995, this organization has grown beyond Indonesia to the Philippines and other islands, training a new generation of midwives to carry on the work started by Ibu Robin. 

Each connection we made—with the grantees and with one another—deepened our understanding of Rise’s mission. We left with stronger bonds, renewed purpose, and a clearer vision of the power of collective support. I strongly encourage you to participate in a Rise trip, if you are able. In 2026, we will travel to India and Uganda. The India trip is already full, but there are a few spots left on the Uganda trip. Learn more about our Travel Program here.  

As Rise prepares for our 2025 Annual Appeal, with a goal to support extra Featured Grants next year to meet the enormous need, we invite you to reflect on the impact your support is making across the globe. Together, we are advancing gender equality and uplifting women and girls in profound and lasting ways. We plan to launch the annual appeal in early October with a special matching gift opportunity – watch for more details coming soon.  

Thank you for being part of this journey.