New Perspectives from Shared Experience: Maddison’s Internship Reflections from Cipanas

In today’s increasingly interconnected world, international internships offer invaluable opportunities for both personal and professional development. For Maddison Hardstaff, such an opportunity unfolded during her recent placement in Indonesia—an eye-opening journey that not only broadened her skillset but also deepened her understanding of global health and community engagement.

Every meaningful journey begins with meaningful people. For Maddison, one such individual was Pak Aris, a dedicated local mentor whose unwavering support played an instrumental role throughout her experience. His guidance, insight, and sincere commitment to community welfare helped shape her time at Yayasan Usaha Mulia (YUM), enabling her to navigate both cultural and organizational environments with clarity and compassion.

More than a professional placement, Maddison’s internship became a transformative journey—both literal and metaphorical. Immersed in a new cultural context, she encountered fresh perspectives, unfamiliar challenges, and diverse ways of working that enriched her understanding of international development. The experience demanded adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and the courage to step beyond her comfort zone—all of which Maddison embraced with enthusiasm and integrity.

Throughout her internship, Maddison contributed to a number of impactful projects focused on health and education. Among her key responsibilities was the development of educational presentations on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Mental Health. These materials were carefully designed to be accessible, culturally sensitive, and engaging for local youth and community members—underscoring the value of inclusive and locally grounded health education.

In addition to her work in health promotion, Maddison supported the preparation of the Sponsorship and Education Summary for YUM’s Annual Report 2025. This task called for attention to detail, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of the organization’s ongoing initiatives. Her contribution helped strengthen the clarity and impact of the report, ensuring that the importance of educational sponsorships was clearly communicated to key stakeholders.

One of the most memorable chapters of her internship unfolded in YUM Cipanas, a region that left a lasting imprint on her heart. Working directly with local communities gave Maddison a profound sense of purpose. The resilience, generosity, and warmth she encountered reaffirmed her commitment to global health, social equity, and community-led development.

Reflecting on her experience, Maddison identified several lasting takeaways. Beyond the professional exposure, she gained a more nuanced understanding of cross-cultural collaboration, participatory education, and grassroots empowerment. Her time in Indonesia became a powerful reminder of the role that empathy, humility, and mutual respect play in creating meaningful, sustainable change.

Ultimately, Maddison’s journey stands as a testament to the transformative potential of international internships—experiences that foster global awareness, empower contribution, and shape compassionate, capable future leaders.

In her reflections, she expressed deep gratitude to the mentors, colleagues, and community members at Yayasan Usaha Mulia (YUM) who supported her throughout the journey. Their guidance, encouragement, and warmth transformed her internship into more than just a professional placement—it became a meaningful chapter of growth, connection, and lasting impact.