#OTOTSENDI 2026
Nine VDMI alumni shared their experiences and inspiring stories during the #OTOTSENDI (Obrolan Berbobot Bersama VDMI Family) event held during Ramadan, from February 24 to March 13, 2026. The event aimed to provide positive insights and motivation, as well as strengthen bonds among members of the VDMI Family.
The event was divided into three thematic sessions: the first week focused on “Make Your Mark,” the second week on “Overseas Hustle: Challenges Unleashed,” and the third week on “Global Grants: Unlock Abroad.” A total of eight sessions were broadcast via Instagram Live, while one session was held via Zoom Meeting due to technical difficulties.
First Week “Make Your Mark”
In the first session, the VDMI Family drew inspiration from alumni dedicated to developing local potential and serving their communities. On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, Kesuma Anugerah Yanti (alumna Lambung Mangkurat University) shared her experiences at Borneo Urban Lab, which is now partnering on a CSR program focused on community and environmental empowerment. Friday, February 27, 2026, Dr. Petrus Lodo Nono (alumnus SMAK Regina Pacis, Bajawa) recounted his struggles as a veterinarian in Ngada, East Nusa Tenggara. He emphasized the challenge of convincing the community that his care provides optimal benefits for livestock. Saturday, February 28, 2026, Annisa Taqwa Zazi Muslim (alumna Hang Tuah University) discussed her experience at the PLATO Foundation, handling cases of drug abuse and sexual violence. She focused on shifting the community’s paradigm regarding “pejuang pulih” as well as education on the dangers of drugs and sexual violence.
Second Week “Overseas Hustle: Challenges Unleashed”
The second session focused on experiences working abroad. On Tuesday, March 1, 2026, Indriani Dewi (alumna Hasanuddin University) shared her story of caring for patients at Arima Onsen Hospital in Kobe, Japan, despite her different educational background. She emphasized the importance of discipline and responsibility, given Japan’s culture of punctuality. On Monday, March 2, 2026, Frans Pratama (alumnus Petra University) recounted his career in South Korea following his master’s degree. He developed an AI-friendly system for a company, supported by the cooperative attitude of his colleagues. Friday, March 6, 2026, Ryaniraffiyadita (alumna Padang State University) shared her struggles in opening the “Raja Gurih” restaurant in Perth, Australia, with her husband, even though she had initially aimed for a Work Holiday Visa. She advised aspiring culinary entrepreneurs to strictly check licensing requirements and to participate in food festivals for promotion.
Third week “Global Grants: Unlock Abroad”
The closing session focused on scholarships and further studies. On Tuesday, March 10, 2026, Andi Annisa Tenri Ramadhani (alumna Hasanuddin University) shared her experience of securing an EPSRC CDT scholarship in Aerosol Science in the UK. She compared the culture of master’s programs in Japan with that of doctoral programs there, as well as scholarship opportunities in the exact sciences. Wednesday, March 11, 2026, Frandy Efraim Fritz Karundeng (alumnus of Sam Ratulangi University) shared his experience pursuing a PhD in Economics and Management at the University of Sopron, Hungary, through a government scholarship for faculty members, as he currently works at Manado State University. Friday, March 13, 2026, Dedi Sanjaya (alumnus Medan State University) shared his experience pursuing a PhD in Cross-Cultural Communication at Massey University, New Zealand. His university’s program provided faculty members with the freedom to pursue advanced studies. Although there were challenges related to being separated from his family, he praised the open relationship between his advisor and students, which motivated him to complete his dissertation.
Thank you to the alumni who shared their experiences and stories. The live streams are available on Instagram Reels @yvdmi, except for the March 10 session, which was held via Zoom. We hope this event provides new insights for VDMI alumni and grantees as we look forward to the next #OTOTSENDI.
