Mai White, a keynote speaker of the forum, a primary educator in Australia
In a world increasingly shaped by digital connection and global challenges, a recent youth forum held via Zoom in Indonesia became powerful evidence to the impact of cross-cultural dialogue and educational empowerment. The event, organized by youth advocate Evelina Limbernia, brought together students from across Indonesia for an afternoon of learning, sharing, and inspiration. At the heart of the gathering was keynote speaker Vo Thi Nhu Mai, known professionally as Mai White, a Vietnamese-born primary school teacher currently working in Australia. Her message was clear, touching, and deeply effective: Empowering young people through education, empathy, and digital platforms is the key to building a more connected and compassionate world.
The forum opened with the Indonesian national anthem, a moment that grounded the event in pride and unity. From the outset, the atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming. NEYSILA, the master of ceremonies, guided the program with remarkable poise and warmth, ensuring that every speaker and participant felt supported. A skilled interpreter facilitated seamless communication between languages, offering not only translation but also her personal email so students could continue asking questions after the event, a gesture that reflected the generosity and openness that defined the gathering.
Mai White’s presence was met with enthusiasm and curiosity. Her introduction was simple yet powerful: Hello everyone! My name is Mai White. I was born and raised in Vietnam, and I now work as a primary school teacher in Australia. It’s a joy to be here with you all, young changemakers of Indonesia! From that moment, the conversation blossomed into something far deeper than a keynote, it became a shared exploration of ideas, values, and dreams.
Drawing from her experience as an educator, Mai spoke passionately about the transformative power of education. She described how even young children can grasp profound concepts like fairness, respect, and environmental stewardship when given the opportunity. Her journey from Vietnam to Australia had taught her the importance of building bridges across cultures, not just through language or travel, but through empathy and curiosity. Global connection, she said, is about learning to see the world through someone else’s eyes.
The students responded with remarkable engagement. Their questions touched on urgent global issues: climate change, mental health, inequality in education, the digital divide, and racism. Mai emphasized that youth voices are not only valid, but they are also essential. Young people see the world differently, she said. You bring fresh eyes, courage, and creativity. That’s what the world needs now.
She shared stories from her classroom in Australia, where even primary school students are taking action. Schools teach sustainability through hands-on projects like composting and gardening. Students learn about Indigenous rights by studying Aboriginal history and culture, fostering respect and justice from an early age. One story stood out: a 10-year-old student who wrote a letter to her local Member of Parliament asking for safer bike paths. That letter sparked a community conversation and reminded Mai that age does not limit impact. When we empower children to speak, she said, they often say things adults need to hear.
Mai also reflected on the lessons she’s learned from living between Vietnamese and Australian cultures. She spoke about the importance of listening deeply to different values and recognizing that every culture holds wisdom. It’s not about which culture is better, she said, but about appreciating what each can teach us. She encouraged students to make friends from other countries, reminding them that such friendships are acts of peacebuilding. When you make a friend from another country, she said, you’re building peace.
The conversation turned to digital platforms, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and their potential to be more than entertainment. Mai urged students to use these tools mindfully, as bridges to the world. She highlighted how youth around the globe are using social media to educate others, share their passions, and launch campaigns. Your phone is a powerful tool, she said. But how much good it does depend on how you choose to use it.
The Q&A session was a highlight of the event. Students asked thoughtful, challenging questions: How can we help remote youth who are left behind? How do we address cultural differences? How can we learn from people in other countries? Does technology affect decision-making? These questions revealed a generation not only aware of global issues but eager to engage with them. Their curiosity and compassion were evident in every exchange.
Among the most active participants were students like DHELIA, SYLVA, VINA, MAUDY, MARIA, EKO, ARINA, MUTIARA, MUHAMMAD FALQ, FALARIA, NABIL, AISYAH, NAZIFA, DINA, ITAWINARTI, PTRI BALI, RACHEL, TRIA, VIONA, INFINIX, PUTU REINA, WINDI, and many others. Each name represented a voice, a perspective, and a commitment to learning. Their presence enriched the dialogue and underscored the diversity and dynamism of Indonesia’s youth.
The event’s success was due in large part to Evelina Limbernia, whose vision and dedication brought it to life. Evelina is an active member of Duta Inisiatif Indonesia and currently works with the Leuweung Hub Foundation, contributing to youth empowerment and environmental initiatives. A Japanese language teacher at SMAK Xaverius in Padang, Evelina holds a degree in Japanese Literature from Bung Hatta University. Her mixed heritage, Chinese and Japanese, adds depth to her perspective, and her past passion for poetry continues to inform her thoughtful approach to education and community building.
As the forum drew to a close, Mai offered a message of encouragement to the youth of Indonesia. She urged them to connect with others across borders, to start small but dream big, and to believe in the power of their voices. You don’t have to wait until you’re older or famous, she said. Your story today can touch someone’s heart across an ocean.
Her closing words remained in the hearts of everyone present: Borders may separate lands, but not hearts. You are the voice of your people, and of the world. It was a fitting end to a gathering that had transcended geography and language, reminding all involved that the future is not something we wait for, it is something we build together.
Mai White’s message continues to remind us that that through education, empathy, and digital connection, young people can shape a world that is more compassionate, inclusive, and united. And after witnessing the passion and insight of Indonesia’s youth, there is no doubt that this future is already being written, one question, one friendship, and one brave voice at a time.
