Welcome back to Member Spotlight where we introduce you to the personalities behind AIYA. This week, we introduce you to AIYA new Blog Editor, Meylisa Sahan!

 What is your occupation/What do you study?

I’m a Masters student in Communication Studies (specialised in Management and Media Industry studies) at Budi Luhur University

Fun fact you would like to share with us?

I won the Miss Communication as Runner Up which was held by one of the universities in Jakarta. I also have a small library in my boarding house because I love reading books.

What made you so interested in Australia/Indonesia?

I love Indonesia because this is my country where I grow and develop. Besides that, there are many kinds of tribes, cultures and languages ​​that make me always proud because there will be no end in learning. Meanwhile, I love Australia as it’s one of the top options for Indonesians to study abroad. There are many of my friends who continue their education in Australia and they say it feels like home. I want to go to Australia sometime for a vacation.

What is your most memorable culture shock experience?

I have not significant experience with culture shock; but recently, during my vacation in Malang, I learned from the local people to cool down hot drinks quickly by pouring it into a small plate.

What is your favourite place to visit in Indonesia/Australia?

Lots of places I’d love to visit in Indonesia but I prefer cold areas such as Bajawa, Soe, Malang, Wonosobo and Ruteng.

Favourite meal in Indonesia/Australia?

My favorite foods are Jagung Bose, Kompiang, Bakso, Gado-Gado and Lumpia Ayam

How about your favourite word in Indonesian/English? 

My favourite word in Indonesia is Keluarga (family) and my favourite word in English is Feminism

Do you have a favourite Indonesian/Australian film?

I have watched a lot of films since I loved to share reviews. But, Indonesian movies that I like are Foxtrot Six and Love for Sale. Meanwhile, Australian movies that I like are films starring and produced by Rebel Wilson.

Any hopes for the bilateral relationship?

I hope the cooperative relationship between Indonesia and Australia will continue to be established, not only because we are the neighbour country and there are already many students from both countries visiting each other. There is a potential for cultural values ​​exchanged between the two countries. Besides that, strengthening import and export, opening access and facilities for students is the most pleasing thing for me.

In your opinion, how is Youth like yourself take part in shaping Australia-Indonesia relationship?

In my opinion there are many ways to take part in shaping relations between the two countries, one of which is to join a community, organisations, office or company that is focused on matters relating to state relations. In addition, participation in activities such as seminars and workshops on the relations of countries in the world, joining student exchanges to Australia or even becoming students there. In my opinion, AIYA is a good place to start and learn all things related to the relationship between Indonesia and Australia

What was getting involved with AIYA like?

I am very happy and excited because I was in a fun team and in line with my passion for writing and journalism. I have a good mentor and always provide us on what to do for the AIYA blog. Then this is one of the great opportunities for me to have many friends from various regions in Indonesia and Australia. Finally, because with this experience I have a lot of work experience for my CV

What do you like most about AIYA?

The thing I like about AIYA is that everyone uses English as a communication tool so I can practice and improve my English skills in speaking, reading and writing

Sum up your experience as an AIYA member in three words!

I love it!

How can we learn more and connect with you?

You can contact me via Instagram @akumeylisa and Twitter @akumeylisaa. In addition, I am also quite active in writing on my personal blog: Wanitatimor.blogspot.com

 

Terima Kasih Meylisa for sharing with us your passions and insights into your personal experience. Stay tuned for AIYA Blog Updates for the upcoming personas under Member Spotlight!