Welcome back to Member Spotlight learn more about the lives of those behind AIYA. This week, we introduce you to AIYA Yogyakarta Vice President & Treasurer Edwin!

 
What is your occupation/What do you study?

Junior Architect

 
Fun fact you would like to share with us?

I once went to Snowy Mountain in Australia and ate chunks of snow (since it’s the first time I’d seen snow)

 
What made you so interested in Australia/Indonesia?

A lot of my families, including my aunt and grandmother, moved to Australia. I’m awed by how developed Australia is as a country

 
What is your most memorable culture shock experience?

I visited Australia once when it was winter there, Ididn’t take a shower for around 1 week straight. People normally bathe twice a day in Indonesia.

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

Pontianak (my hometown in Indonesia), Sydney (in Australia)

 
Favourite meal in Indonesia/Australia?

Pizza, Kangaroo meat BBQ

 
How about your favourite word in Indonesian/English? 

Baik (Indonesian), Perseverance (English)

 
How did you first become interested in Indonesia/Australia?

My cousins were born in Australia, and they’re more Australian than Chinese-descent. When I was still a child, it was fun trying to converse to a native English speaker

 
Any hopes for the bilateral relationship?

I hope there’s a simpler and easier regulation for Indonesian to short-term visitation and living.

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

Making it a habit of reaching out to bigger youth network, exchange ideas, develop friendship and potential cooperation opportunities. There’s no limitation in this era of internet.

 
What do you like most about AIYA?

The people who come to AIYA and its events are genuinely interested in the activities!

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

I want more!

 
How can we learn more and connect with you?

my instagram: @edwin.salim

Terima Kasih Edwin 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!