Drawing from her interest in early childhood education, ETA Katrien Weemaes was driven to delve deeper into the international education landscape in Indonesia while forging new connections in the local community.

She dedicates her Saturday mornings to volunteering at SDN Aksara Pandan, a nearby elementary school. Enlisting the help of her 11th-grade students from SMAN 1 Matauli Pandan, she organizes vibrant language sessions packed with speaking activities, music, and games, finding ways to infuse constant joy and laughter in the classroom. Whether mastering the English alphabet through games like “Hangman” or gleefully chanting along to “Down by the Banks,” each week leaves students singing and smiling, eager to explore new language skills while collecting an abundance of encouraging high-fives and stickers along the way.

Yet, beyond language acquisition, these sessions foster a rich cultural exchange. Even among adolescents, the spirit of sharing thrives as students eagerly vie for Katrien’s attention to showcase their singing, dancing, marching, and football skills every Saturday.

These collaborative efforts not only enhance young learners’ language skills but also cultivate valuable English-speaking and leadership experiences for the 11th-grade volunteers.

As Katrien and her students say goodbye to the energetic Aksara elementary students each week, they are continually inspired by the kids’ boundless curiosity and love for learning. Several students repeatedly sprint across the school, pleading with the teachers to stay longer, adding a bittersweet touch to their farewells. These moments are a testament to the impact of their shared time, fueling hopes for a future where the next generation of global citizens thrives, never losing their innate joy for learning.

Katrien Weemaes is currently teaching at SMAN 1 Matauli Pandan, North Sumatra.