Entrepreneur, Student, Surfer, Karangmajat Island, Mentawai, Indonesia

“Privet, kak dela?” a woman said to me on the boat outside the city of Padang, in Sumatra, Indonesia. Hearing Russian language in that part of the world stopped me in my tracks. This seemed to be a continuous theme with Ms. Jenny Harahap, who steadfastly surprised me with that mischievous smile and an intuitive gaze. Many lives she lived, overcame so much; I only learned about a sliver of it. What I did learn from Jenny’s stories (the remainder of which I attempted to fill in the blanks), brought me to a place of respect for her strength and wisdom. I understood and appreciated that pain, survival and overcoming of adversity may still lead to hope and focus on the bright side of life.

1. Name.

Jenny Iffanny Harahap.

2. Where is your hometown?

I was born in Java province of Indonesia. Java is an island with a population of 148 million. It is bordered by the Indian Ocean to the south and the Java Sea on the north.

3. What is your profession/career/title/self-label/designation? What does your average day look like?

I’m an entrepreneur. I am working as a property agent in Bali.

4. What did you study in school?

I was a student in University of Padang majoring in English. But I didn't finish because I moved to the Mentawai Islands and had my two boys. A long and winding journey later, I am now back in school part time studying in the Mahendradatta University in Kota Denpasar, Bali. This time I am majoring in Law.

5. What was the journey like to get where you are (in life and career-wise)? Write about some of the achievements that you are most proud of.

I grew up in Padang, in West Sumatra province. Through family history, I’m considered to be from a town called Medan (in North Sumatra), that is considered my parents’ blood and our family name is still Medan. I then married and moved to the Mentawai. I live in Bali now. I am a mother of two boys, my greatest achievement.

6. How is your life different from what you pictured at 20?

So much different. When I was 18 years old I really wanted to move from my parents’ house and be responsible for myself. Although my parents were very protective, they instilled the right values in me, and they always insisted that education is everything in life.

7. Was there a time when life knocked you down or out and how did you get back up on your feet?

Divorce. That was a really hard time for me. Never ever did I think that I would be separated from my kids. Because we were always together, mother and kids to me means always being together.

But now after all the ups and downs, my kids are happy growing up in a safe and loving place. I am able to visit them anytime. They have a good life on the beautiful island in the Mentawais. I’m so proud of them, their personalities, their talents (especially surfing).

8. Advice for other women? Knowing what we know now in a current political climate, can women be "all that we can be" in today's world? What is the way forward, as you see it, for "feminist values"?

“Woman, you are beautiful of course! (can’t say that to a man haha). Be yourself. If you have dreams about your life and feel like you still can’t reach them, keep believing in yourself, that you can do it. Everything is possible; just need extra time and work. Care and caring for each other is important; we need to support and help one another. A lot of life is a choice. The choice is yours. Learn from others and ingrain in yourself the positive experiences. Spend your life in such a way as to not have regrets; live in the moment, and in the now.”

9. Where in the world do you feel “tallest” (i.e. where is your happy place)?

Anywhere in the ocean surrounded by blue sky and waves,  I love surfing, snorkeling, fishing, and coconut water.

10. What extracurricular activities/hobbies are you most proud of? Why?

My hobby is sports. I enjoy surfing, volleyball, playing and competing at frisbee, and tennis. Surfing is my true love. I’m more confident when I surf. I feel free and closer to nature.

11. What do you want to be when you grow up? Future goals/challenges?

Focus on my life goals.

Finish my university, More time with my sons and Family, Keep learning new skills, always focus on solutions, be happy and give back to others.

13. Anything you'd do differently, if you could live life over?

I wish I could spend more time with my Mom who is no longer with us.

14. What inspires you?

People who don’t lose their cool and always hold their own in tough situations.

15. What are you hopeful about?

I am hopeful that this pandemic will end. I hope that my family and friends are always healthy and happy.

17. What are (at least) three qualities you most love about yourself and why? What are your superpowers?

I’m optimistic, humble and motivated.

18. What advice would you give your 14-year-old self?

Be yourself, never give up, always learn from and listen to your surroundings. Pursue and keep pushing toward your goals and dreams. Studying and hard work are the keys to good life. Be honest with yourself and others.

19. What are you reading now? (what books do you gift most and what are your favourite reads?)

I like science and history books.

21. Where can others find you/your work (links to websites, blogs, etc.)?

Instagram : @jennyiffanny

My sons: @alldaydylan and @all_day_jayden