In the heart of Hamlet 4, Karawonjo—within the quiet Omu village in Indonesia—lives Ferdiansyah, a 37-year-old father, farmer, and respected community member. What once began as a modest life of corn farming has now transformed into a powerful story of resilience, self-reliance, and community-driven change.
Ferdiansyah, along with his wife Eka and their two children, used to depend entirely on corn farming for their daily livelihood. But like many in his community, he found the returns were barely enough to support the family, let alone build a sustainable future. That’s when ADRA’s REAF II program arrived in Omu, bringing with it new hope and opportunity.
Curious and driven, Ferdiansyah joined ADRA’s SUKAKESWAN training—an initiative that equips local farmers with essential knowledge and practical skills in livestock care. The training was a turning point. He learned everything from proper animal shelter design and feed dosage, to fermented feed production and regular health management practices for goats and cows.
He also gained confidence in managing small herds, recognizing early signs of illness, and applying basic veterinary care that would later benefit his entire community.
Through ADRA’s goat scroll initiative, he received two goats. With care and the application of what he had learned, he managed not only to raise them well but also to return two healthy kids to the program, as part of the pass-it-on model.
Encouraged by this success, Ferdiansyah invested his own savings to purchase four additional goats and four cows.
Today, his herd has grown to 10 goats and 5 cows—a milestone he never imagined reaching just a few years ago.
But Ferdiansyah’s growth didn’t stop with his own farm. As a trained SUKAKESWAN, he now serves as a local livestock facilitator, supporting fellow farmers through ADRA’s Field School and Posyandu Peternakan programs.
He regularly coordinates with district livestock officers and promotes best practices like creating forage banks and using agricultural waste—such as corn straw—as fermented feed. He’s even integrated his animal manure back into his corn fields, creating a sustainable circular farming model.
His approach not only boosts productivity but also reduces farming costs, making it easier for others in the village to replicate. By leading through action, Ferdiansyah is inspiring a shift toward more resilient and eco-friendly farming practices in his community.
Ferdiansyah’s story is more than personal progress—it’s a reflection of how ADRA’s support can unlock potential and spark transformation at the grassroots. Through hands-on training, mentorship, and sustainable resources, ADRA empowered him to rise beyond survival and become a catalyst for change in his village. His success is a reminder that when communities are equipped with knowledge and trust, real and lasting impact follows. This is what ADRA stands for—partnerships that build dignity, resilience, and a better tomorrow.
An ADRA Impact Story from: ADRA Indonesia Projects.
