Year 10

“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” — Christopher Reeve

Good morning, everyone. I’m Nazwa Alema from 10C.

When we think of heroes, we often imagine people with superpowers and capes. But the truth is, heroes are all around us—right here in our school, among our friends, and even within ourselves. Each of us has the potential to be a hero, and it starts with the choices we make every day.

Today, I want to share the stories of four remarkable Indonesians who embody the qualities of the IB Learner Profile, showing us how we too can be heroes.

Be Caring – Raden Adjeng Kartini

Kartini was a pioneer for the education and empowerment of Indonesian women. Her efforts went beyond her personal dreams; she worked tirelessly to ensure that future generations would have access to opportunities she could only imagine. We can be like Kartini by showing empathy and compassion—helping classmates who may need support, standing up against bullying, and creating a friendly atmosphere at school. In a world where you can be anything, be kind.

Be a Thinker – B. J. Habibie

Former President and engineer B. J. Habibie was known for his forward-thinking mindset and determination to solve complex problems. His work in advancing Indonesia’s aerospace technology showed us the power of innovative thinking. As students, we can embrace Habibie’s spirit by approaching challenges with curiosity and creativity—whether it’s finding a better way to complete a project or offering fresh perspectives in discussions.

Be a Risk-Taker – Cut Nyak Dien

Cut Nyak Dien, a national hero from Aceh, displayed extraordinary courage in fighting for Indonesia’s freedom during Dutch colonization. Her bravery reminds us of the importance of standing up for our beliefs, even when the path is challenging. We can be risk-takers by stepping out of our comfort zones—trying new things, speaking up for what’s right, or even leading a project. 

Be Principled – Mohammad Hatta

Mohammad Hatta, Indonesia’s first Vice President, stood firmly for independence and democracy. His commitment to integrity in the face of challenges serves as an example for all of us. To be principled means staying true to our values, even when it’s hard—like being honest in our schoolwork, treating everyone with respect, and taking responsibility for our actions.

These heroes show us that heroism isn’t just about bravery or grand gestures. It’s about embodying qualities that each of us can practice, every day, right here in school. Remember, being a hero is about making a positive impact, one small step at a time.

So, let’s be the heroes we’re capable of being—because our school, our community, and the world could always use a few more.

Thank you.