audellya ambara books of hope project book donation

Audellya Ambara Launches English Book Drive for Indonesian Youth

Indonesia-Vietnam 2026-07-03 audellya ambara

Fourteen-year-old education advocate Audellya Ambara Harsono has launched the "Books of Hope Project" to deliver over 300 English books to underprivileged children.

A close-up of colorful English storybooks ready for distribution to students

A close-up of colorful English storybooks ready for distribution to students

Empowering Underprivileged Indonesian Youth Through Physical Literature

The initiative began during Audellya's school holiday from her studies in the United States, when she noticed empty suitcases and realized she could fill them with educational resources. On June 29, the project kicked off with a visit to Jovin Smart School, an underprivileged community learning center located beneath a bridge tollway in North Jakarta, where she successfully distributed more than 120 books to enthusiastic local students.

The 2025 Puteri Anak Indonesia Pendidikan titleholder collaborated with the San Diego Books Project, a US-based non-profit organization led by Sydney Mafong, to source high-quality reading materials that are often financially out of reach for many Indonesian families. Supported by her sister Amaryllis Julietta and regional pageant directors, Audellya paired the book handouts with interactive English lessons and confidence-building activities to inspire the young learners.

"I believe that physical books offer a unique experience for children because they can hold them, turn the pages, and focus better compared to digital screens," Audellya shared in an official statement. She expressed immense gratitude for the pristine condition of the donated literature, noting that affordable English reading materials remain scarce for low-income communities across the archipelago.

The young advocate is currently seeking to secure an additional 200 English books through ongoing donation drives to expand the initiative's reach to other regions across Indonesia. Future distribution phases will target marginalized schools in suburban and rural areas, focusing on fostering early childhood literacy and broadening global perspectives through language learning.

audellya ambara books of hope project book donation english education puteri anak indonesia literacy initiative
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Hari Nurjanah

Senior Political Journalist - Indonesia-Vietnam

Senior journalist with experience covering political dynamics in Indonesia and the Southeast Asian region. Delivers in-depth analysis of public policy, bilateral relations, and national strategic issues.