This past month, the 2nd annual U.S. Fulbrighters Conference was held in Jakarta. 26 Fulbright ETAs, scholars, and researchers came together to learn about the vastly different experiences of the Fulbright grant and to engage with the community. Fulbright ETA Iyesha Belgrave had the opportunity to participate in this conference and gave a presentation about “In-Site” insights at her site, where she reflected on her time in Kudus, the community she built, and the values and stories she would bring back home.

In addition to presentations by ETAs, the U.S. Fulbrighters Conference allowed Iyesha to learn about the various research projects conducted by the Fulbright scholars and researchers, ranging from arts and literature to health. Several small group discussions were also held, offering a unique opportunity to engage and connect on a deeper level.

Iyesha’s favorite session of the conference was the jamu-making session, where attendees were able to make the traditional drink from scratch. She even gave her jamu a name, Jamesha!

Iyesha Belgrave is currently teaching at SMA NU Al Ma’ruf Kudus, Jawa Tengah.