Elly, (3-3-2024) Read Aloud about friendship, drawing about friends. (Photo taken by Nanik)
My name is Mellia Irawati, but people usually call me Elly. I come from a small town in Java Island, called Pati. I have lived in Pati since I was a child and went to school there. I am a Muslim, and I finished my education in an Islamic school. In high school, I chose the Science major. I graduated in 2018 and continued my studies at IAIN Kudus (Kudus State Islamic Institute), in the city of Kudus. I took Islamic Education Guidance and Counseling as my major, and I finished my study in 2022.
During my time in college, I learned many things about counseling. My heart was touched when I started practicing in schools and met children with different characteristics.
After graduating, I taught at a high school in my village for one year, but then I decided to move to Joglo. Besides teaching, I am writing a book, with the hope that it can be published with a license. I take time to improve my writing and create quotes reflecting my feelings, which I plan to include in my book. I also enjoy painting and drawing according to my moods. I learn to draw by watching short videos and try to make something creative from it.
The first time I heard about AVP (Alternatives to Violence Project) was when I met Ibu Nanik and started learning at Joglo preschool. I learned many things at Joglo. Every time I assisted the children, I felt challenged to observe their development – not only based on age, but based on their individual growth. At Joglo, teachers also have to learn how to assist children using the culture of peace, helping them find answers by themselves with our support. Teachers are also encouraged to empower children.
I began applying AVP in my life after I joined activities at Rumah Damai. I also shared AVP experiences with my friends and the children at PAUD (early childhood education).
Besides being a companion at Joglo preschool, I often join POG (Power of Goodness) activities with my friends from Rumah Damai. The first activity I joined was in Jepara, and it gave me a new understanding. It made me want to continue learning about living without violence and listening to my conscience. After that, I joined more POG activities to develop myself and to share what I learned with people around me. I hope it brings a good impact to my life and also to others.
I want to continue learning more about counseling, especially in early childhood education and support for parents.
A big thank you to peace friends around the world who have supported me. I hope we can stay connected and continue to grow the peace movement together. Peace is real, and every human being deserves to feel peace in this world.
Elly & Damar (1-2-2024) reading a book about animals with Damar. (Photo taken by Nanik)