Nurwahida self portrait – photo taken by Ida
Hello, my name is Nurwahidah, but most people call me Hida. I was born in 1997 into a Muslim family of farmers in Bima, located in West Nusa Tenggara, Central Indonesia. I am the youngest of three siblings. My parents reside in the mountainous and remote area of Parado in Bima, while I live in Woha District, which is more central within Bima Regency. I make it a point to visit my parents in Parado every weekend.
Currently, I work as a lecturer at a private university in Bima, teaching courses on Islamic Religious Education at the Taman Siswa Bima College of Teacher Training and Education (STKIP). Beside teaching, I am also part of the Work Unit (Internal Accreditation) staff at the campus. I have a short commute to work, about 2-5 minutes, as my residence is close to the campus. I wake up at 5:30 AM every day to pray, tidy up, exercise in my yard, prepare breakfast, and get ready for my day at the university.
In 2022, while studying in Yogyakarta, I was introduced to Creating Cultures of Peace (CCP) activities by my friend Ruwaidah, held in Kaliurang. This experience brought me into contact with young people from other faiths, fostering my understanding of living as equals. Despite our differences in religion, region, and age, everyone was treated with equal respect. After this, I participated in Power of Goodness (PoG) activities organized by Ruwaidah’s team in Yogyakarta and later in Bima. Inspired by these experiences, I have implemented PoG methods in learning activities with elementary and middle school students in my hometown on three occasions.
The lessons I learned from these activities have deeply influenced my teaching approach. I consistently encourage my students to create a class agreement at the start of each semester, incorporating positive values. One key value I promote is the importance of listening to each other attentively. I provide my students with opportunities to share stories and exchange ideas, as I believe in the power of being a good listener.
Implementing these methods in my daily life brings me great joy. However, I recognize that my experience and knowledge are still growing. I aspire to continue learning and contribute to promoting these methods, particularly in my conflict-prone region. I am eager to play an active role in fostering peaceful coexistence and promoting a culture of mutual respect and understanding.
I am passionate about encouraging others to “love their neighbors” and treat everyone with equality.
Picture together after power of goodness with kids in Parado Village