BOGOR –— The evening in Pondok Kapilih, Caringin District, Bogor Regency, felt warmer thanks to the enthusiasm of hundreds of orphans. They gathered at the Youth Expression Festival 2025 organized by the Community Service Agency (LPM) Dompet Dhuafa, on Tuesday-Wednesday (10/28-29/25). This festival served as a stage for 110 participants to showcase their talents and stories, proving that being an orphan is not the end of their dreams.
Two figures who attracted the most attention were Safa Fitria Oktaviani and Amelia Imelda, two orphaned teenagers who managed to turn their nervousness and limitations into achievements and inspiration.
Safa Fitria Oktaviani made her debut on the Yatim Got Talent stage with nervous steps. Under the spotlight, her clear voice speaking in English immediately captured the audience’s attention. Her performance was impromptu.
“I was actually really nervous because I became a participant in Yatim Got Talent suddenly. My friend was supposed to be the participant, but he said he hadn’t memorized his poem yet, so he wasn’t confident enough to go on stage. Then I was asked to give a speech to replace my friend,” said Safa.
Even though it was sudden and nerve-wracking, she was happy to be able to give her best performance.
Read also: Youth Expression Festival 2025: 110 Orphans Showcase Their Talents and Creativity
The next day, Safa once again showcased her talent in the Storytelling competition. This time, her story was more personal and touching. With tears in her eyes, she recounted how her father’s return had become an “ever-present presence” in her heart. Hamzah Ziyan, a content creator who served as a judge, praised Safa’s performance.
“Safa, you’re such a good storyteller. You’re already amazing; your talent is truly extraordinary,” he said.
For Safa, her personal story is a mission.
“Based on my own life story, I want the storytelling I share to inspire my friends that being an orphan isn’t that sad. Orphans can rise up and be even better than others,” said Safa enthusiastically and emotionally.
Read also: Gratitude and Enthusiasm of Orphaned Children Receiving New School Supplies Assistance
In a different corner of the competition, tension filled the air during the Ranking One Quiz session. Among dozens of participants, Amelia Imelda’s face looked serious. Not wanting to miss a single question, her intelligence was proven by her success in defeating 21 other participants and winning first place.
“Alhamdulillah, I won the Ranking One competition. I’m so happy! I really like participating in competitions like this. I’ve participated in competitions like this before and won first place too,” said Amelia with a proud smile.
The teenager, who is currently studying at a pharmacy vocational school, shared that her passion for learning is driven by a big dream: to work in a hospital and help many people.
“In the future, I want to continue my studies in pharmacy or nursing,” she said.
Amelia’s dream apparently stems from a touching story. Her eyes began to well up as she slowly revealed her biggest motivation: the condition of her mother and sister, who are currently battling tuberculosis and breast cancer.
Fahrul Bahri, administrator of the Bangun Anak Jakarta Foundation, where Amelia is being mentored, expressed his pride.
“Amelia is one of the great orphans who has been able to prove her potential and talent despite her limitations,” he concluded.
The Youth Expression Festival 2025 serves as tangible proof that the guidance and support provided by Dompet Dhuafa not only offers material assistance but also creates a platform for orphaned children to boldly express themselves, achieve accomplishments, and inspire others. (Dompet Dhuafa)
Text and photos: Afriza, LPM
Editor: Dhika