One of the things I’ve always loved about Bali is the way the community can show up for each other – especially evident during times like COVID when locals and foreigners came together, Crisis Kitchen, PlasticXchange Bali There is a heartbeat here a rhythm of shared responsibility — that you feel in the temples, in the banjar halls, at family gatherings, and increasingly, in the way schools, businesses, and newcomers find meaningful ways to contribute.
Recently, I was reminded of this again through a simple but powerful initiative happening at ProEd Global School Nuanu where our kids go to school. As the year draws to a close, the school community students, teachers, families, and friends is preparing for its Annual Christmas Market on Thursday, 12 December. On the surface, it’s a joyful event filled with music, food, handmade crafts, and the energy of children getting ready for the holidays. But underneath, something deeper is taking place.
This year, the entire community has committed to raising funds for Sungai Watch, one of Bali’s most impactful environmental organisations. Their goal is to raise USD 3,500 (around Rp60 million) to sponsor a river barrier capable of capturing plastic before it reaches the ocean. If the funds aren’t fully raised by Christmas, the school has already pledged to continue throughout the academic year until the goal is achieved. That level of commitment says a lot about who they are – and who Bali is.
The centrepiece of the initiative is the Christmas Raffle, which is open to the public. Local businesses are contributing vouchers, experiences, and products valued at Rp500,000 or more, with all proceeds going directly toward the river barrier. What’s beautiful is how quickly the community has responded. Luna Beach Club, Oshom Hotel, Bali Beach Glamping, Away Hotel Legian, and others have already stepped forward – not because they have to, but because they want to be part of something meaningful.
And that, to me, captures the essence of Bali. It’s the understanding that we’re not separate not from each other, and not from this land that gives us so much. When a school, its families, and local businesses unite behind a cause that protects Bali’s rivers, it becomes more than an event. It becomes a statement of shared values. A reminder that everyone from the smallest student to the largest hotel has a role to play in shaping the island’s future.
If you feel inspired by this story and would like to support the effort, you can contribute a prize, voucher, product, or experience to be included in the public raffle. All supporters will be acknowledged through the international school network and the broader Bali community.
To donate or participate, please contact:
Yvonne Hamilton
Community Leader, ProEd Nuanu Family Community (PNFC)
📧 pnfc.nuanu@proedschool.com
📱 +62 812 3790 1323
This is another example of how Bali grows…together.
Let’s build something extraordinary, together.
Website: www.robertianbonnick.com
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