ORIGIN OF HARAPAN BARU

In August 2012, Nick Rensink left Aalten for Indonesia to work at a school for children with multiple disabilities. Nick learned Bahasa Indonesia, assisted in training the caregivers on Lombok, supported the development of treatment plans, and collaborated with the physiotherapist to establish a daily program for children with multiple disabilities. After graduating, he returned to Lombok, this time to work with street children for a year.

In 2015, Nick moved to Indonesia permanently to help those who, for various reasons, were marginalized in Lombok society. His focus was particularly on people with disabilities or those living in extreme poverty.

There was hardly any guidance or support for these individuals from the government, especially not for young adults. It was very difficult for them to find work, and they often ended up in poorly paid, temporary jobs. As a result, they were unable to build a financial buffer and were vulnerable to financial setbacks. They often lacked access to medical care and were unable to take control of their own lives.

Through projects focused on education, awareness, and employment, Nick aimed to provide these people with a fully integrated place within Lombok society. The ultimate goal was to give all families on Lombok a chance to make something of their lives.

To achieve this, two foundations were established in 2016: one in Lombok, responsible for preparing and implementing the projects, and one in Aalten, the Netherlands, tasked with promoting the work of the Indonesian foundation and securing the financial resources needed for it.

Nick’s important work continues and has expanded further. Today, three people from Lombok are employed by the foundation. They work daily on establishing micro-enterprises, developing villages, and providing emergency aid in the event of a disaster.