Suhartini has become a beacon of hope for women in her village in Bengkulu. Her courage in advocating for women’s rights successfully encouraged the village government to allocate funding for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) education. Beyond that, she also initiated the formation of a study group and a savings and loan cooperative, “Harapan Perempuan” (Women’s Hope), creating opportunities for women in the village to achieve economic independence.
Suhartini’s journey has been supported by Perempuan Sumatera Mampu (PERMAMPU) through its local partner, Cahaya Perempuan, supported by the INKLUSI Program. Through the Grassroots Women’s Community Forum (FKPAR), initiated by PERMAMPU, Suhartini found a space to engage in discussions, learn, and hone her leadership skills. She also participated in training and mentoring on policy advocacy, equipping her with the knowledge and confidence to drive change in her village.
In 2017, drawing on the skills gained from these trainings, Suhartini took part in the Village Development Planning Meeting (Musrenbangdes), where she proposed a budget allocation for SRHR awareness programs for women. She noted that discussions around SRHR remained taboo within her community, particularly for women. Her proposal was accepted, leading the village government to allocate Rp15,000,000 for these awareness initiatives.
In addition, the “Harapan Perempuan” savings and loan cooperative, which she established with her peers, has continued to grow. Initially comprising just a few members, it now has 20 members with a total share capital exceeding Rp32,000,000. More than just a financial initiative, the cooperative has served as a key entry point for women to access various forms of information, including on SRHR. Through discussions within the group, members have gained a broader understanding of their rights, including reproductive health rights, while also accessing business loans, such as funds for purchasing fertilisers for farmers.
As the eldest of five siblings, Suhartini worked as a farm labourer from a young age to fund her education through high school. After graduating, she moved to Bengkulu city for work before returning to her village after getting married. It was in her village that she was introduced to Cahaya Perempuan and joined FKPAR. This experience sparked her passion for empowering women in her community, as she wanted her fellow villagers to grow and progress together.
The support from PERMAMPU and the training I received gave me the confidence to believe that every woman in the village has the right to be heard and to actively contribute to development, Suhartini shared.
Suhartini’s story stands as proof that with strong support, women can take an active role in development, drive change, and build independence for themselves and their communities.
