ETA Christina Stoll recently hosted a local WORDS competition at SMAN 2 Palangkaraya. The event featured students competing in English storytelling. The stories followed this year’s theme of “community,” which included stories about family, school life, and even Indonesia as a whole. Each story was written and performed by a student from SMAN 2 Palangkaraya in front of their peers and three local judges. Each student performed with excitement and fluency, showcasing both their creativity and English ability.

The winner of the local competition, Qonita Anis Zhofirah from class X-10, will go on to compete in Jakarta in the national WORDS competition, representing her school and Palangkaraya. She says winning was a surprise, but she is extremely excited about the opportunity to travel to Jakarta with Christina and meet students from all over Indonesia. She is working hard, practicing her storytelling performance and perfecting the storybook that will be illustrated to accompany it.

Overall, the competition was a great success and a wonderful example of how talented students in Indonesia are when they are given the opportunity to showcase their abilities, personalities, and personal stories.

Christina Stoll is currently teaching at SMAN 2 Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan.