Fitri, a young woman from Sabutung Island, South Sulawesi, founded the Women’s School for Youth as a space for learning and empowerment for young women in her community. Her initiative began when she was unable to join the Women’s School— a program developed by KAPAL Perempuan—because she was still too young at the time. Determined to ensure that young women had access to knowledge, leadership development, and opportunities to contribute to village development, Fitri took the initiative to create a space specifically for them.
The Women’s School for Youth was established in response to the high rates of child marriage and violence against women in the region. With support from KAPAL Perempuan and the Foundation for Community Studies and Development (YKPM) through the INKLUSI Program, Fitri and her peers received guidance to deepen their understanding of gender equality, women’s rights, and leadership.
Beyond educating her community, Fitri also launched Siperennu FM, a community radio station that serves as an information platform for women in remote areas. The radio station amplifies women’s voices, shares information on public services, and drives advocacy efforts at the village level. Thanks to her dedication, young women on Sabutung Island are now included in village discussions and have successfully advocated for essential services such as electricity and clean water for the elderly and people with disabilities.
Fitri is also actively campaigning against child marriage at the national level, using social media, performing arts, and direct community education. Her efforts have proven that young women can lead change, earning her recognition for her work, including the Grassroots Women Leader Award on International Women’s Day 2025.
Fitri’s journey demonstrates that with community support and inclusive spaces, young women can play a vital role in building a fairer and more equal society.
