Lidia is a woman with a psychosocial disability from a village in East Nusa Tenggara. After participating in various training and mentoring programs, she now works at a beauty salon in Tambolaka. This job not only provides her with an income and renewed hope but also helps break the stigma that people with psychosocial disabilities can be empowered and contribute to society.
Since childhood, Lidia had been known as a cheerful and active person. While working in Surabaya, she experienced mental health challenges that led her to return to her hometown. There, she faced discrimination and stigma from her community. However, her life began to change when she met a Community Organiser from Pusat Rehabilitasi YAKKUM (PR Yakkum) through the DIGNITY Program, supported by the INKLUSI Program. With a warm and empathetic approach, the Community Organiser helped Lidia rebuild her confidence, reconnect with her community, and gain access to various training programs and social support.
Through the DIGNITY program, Lidia actively participated in Community-Based Rehabilitation training, discussions on advocating for the rights of women with disabilities and became a member of the Self-Help Group (SHG) Bina Kasih. Her involvement led her to take on a leadership role within the community, demonstrating that she could play a bigger part in society.
Her confidence grew further when she was given the opportunity to sing at church and received appreciation from the congregation. She also began sharing her story with those around her. Recognising her potential, the PR Yakkum team encouraged her to take part in a hairdressing skills course at BLK Don Bosco.
At first, Lidia was unsure of her abilities. However, with determination and strong support, she successfully completed her training. When applying for a job at a salon, she openly shared her condition but assured the salon owner that she had the skills and dedication to perform well. Her honesty impressed the owner, who gave her a chance to prove herself.
Gradually, Lidia built a reputation as a talented and friendly hairdresser. Today, she has a loyal customer base and no longer feels isolated. She can work like everyone else and is stepping into a new chapter of her life.
I am grateful for the opportunity I was given to prove that I can be just like everyone else. Now, I feel more confident and independent, said Lidia.
Lidia’s journey proves that with the right support, encouragement, and determination, a difficult past does not have to be a barrier to building a better life. With her unwavering spirit, Lidia has helped break the stigma surrounding people with psychosocial disabilities, showing that they too can be empowered and contribute to society. Her story is a reminder that everyone, without exception, deserves a chance to pursue their dreams.
