Dressed in Stories: A Women’s Conversation about Unnamed Feelings

Door Duisternis tot Licht, which means Out of Darkness Comes Light. The iconic statement of R.A Kartini that still lasts over a century to keep the spirit of Indonesian women. Inspiration comes from one Javanese woman that gives hope, optimism, and the thriving life of womenkind. Her born-day became the day where Indonesian women recall their spirit to grit their life. Water Lily team was keen on celebrating it with book discussion and dressed in Indonesian traditional wear with the cheerful special guest at Gramedia Matraman.

Chillwithcilla is a booktoker that captures the attention of the Tiktok audience by her bright personality and beautiful traditional kebaya that she always wears on the video. Her love of romance books are reflected in the way she presents herself. We invited her to a special appearance as the presentation of modern Kartini nowadays. To celebrate the occasion, Cilla, the Water Lily team, and the participants attended the discussion dressed in traditional Indonesian fabrics and kebaya, not only women but also men. As well, many of the book discussion’s participants share their perspective on the books that they brought about feminism that reminds of the hard work of Kartini. The session not only ran smoothly but also left meaningful connections among the participants.