At Solve Education!, we empower learners by providing firsthand insights from industry leaders. In our recent Global Monday’s Insight Across Borders event, the inspiring Emi Rusmiati Rahman, General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Bandung, shared how she built a successful hospitality career from her small-town beginnings, giving learners a practical look at overcoming real-world challenges.
A Transformative Event
Titled “From the Ground Up: Emi Rahman’s Transformative Journey in Hospitality,” the event attracted 141 participants from 10 schools and universities across 16 cities in Indonesia. The attendees, including students from Ms. Emi’s hometown of Cicurug and Parungkuda, were active members of the Solve My English community. Moderated by Talitha Amalia, COO of Solve Education!, the session allowed learners to connect with a real success story in the hospitality industry.
This event left a strong, inspiring impact on everyone involved.
Emi Rahman: A Journey of Determination
Ms. Emi grew up in rural Sukabumi, West Java, Indonesia, and, due to financial constraints, was unable to pursue further studies after high school. However, she remained determined and moved to Jakarta in 1991, inspired by a neighbor working in the hospitality industry.
She started as a shopkeeper, saving part of her salary to invest in English courses. She knew that language skills were crucial to her success. With a clear vision, she secured her first hotel job in F&B, beginning her inspiring industry rise.
“When there’s an opportunity, I always put myself forward. I never hesitate. Skills can be learned, but the willingness to try is most important,” Ms. Emi reflected—a mindset that propelled her from a helper to a general manager.
Key Lessons for Aspiring Professionals
During the event, Ms. Emi shared essential advice:
- Seize Opportunities: “Everyone has the same opportunity to succeed; it’s how we utilize that opportunity.”
- Set Clear Goals: Visualize objectives and use them as motivation.
- Demonstrate Value: “Sell ourselves with our abilities—show, don’t just tell.”
- Embrace Learning: “Building confidence to learn is key. Equal opportunities are there for everyone, as long as they’re given the chance.”
Impact on Learners
Participants were deeply inspired by Ms. Emi’s story. Delliana Damogalad, one learner, shared: “Ms. Emi, your story really inspired me. I didn’t go to college, but now I’m working hard to improve my English skills to get the job I want.” Another participant, Siti Nurjanah, echoed this sentiment: “Absolutely amazing and profoundly inspiring! I was feeling discouraged, but now I’m truly motivated.”
Indah, an 18-year-old learner, expressed her gratitude after the event, highlighting how it renewed her confidence in pursuing her dreams. “Honestly, I’ve been feeling really down lately. I’ve been seeing posts about my friends’ orientation at public universities while I’m attending a private university. But after hearing Ms. Emi’s story and struggles, I realized that our success isn’t determined by the institution where we gain our knowledge—our success is something we define for ourselves. Ms. Emi reignited a new spirit within me to be more patient, work hard, and consistent in whatever I do. To achieve what we want, there will definitely be many challenges, but that’s where we can turn challenges into opportunities. Overall, her story is truly inspiring.”
Looking Forward
This successful event underscores the value of connecting learners with real-world success stories. At Solve Education!, we remain committed to bridging the gap between education and career aspirations, continuing to create inspiring opportunities for learners to gain insight from industry leaders.
We invite partners and supporters to join us in expanding our impact, ensuring that more learners like Delliana, Siti, and Indah can be inspired to pursue their ambitions.