Balikpapan, May 31st 2016
After Semarang in collaboration with Student Organization for Social Caring (UKM Peduli Sosial) Universitas Diponegoro, it was Balikpapan that hosted the Talk show & Community Gathering entitled “Social Movement & Digital Strategy” is a collaboration with the Student Council (BEM) of Universtas Balikpapan on May 31st 2016. The program was conducted by inviting students and representatives of local communities and organizations across Balikpapan. There were around 60 participants who attended the program and shared their experiences towards utilizing digital platforms such as social media and websites to build movements for good.
The talk show is part of Do Something Indonesia roadshow across Indonesia and is brought considering the fact that a number of communities or organizations that focus on addressing social issues is quite high in several cities. In addition, the number of students who are enthusiastic with social activities is also high. These communities and students are aware of social issues, however they do not know which platform that is significant to be utilized and can accommodate their concerns. Thus, it was believed that the talk show and community gathering was needed to embrace and inspire these communities and students on how to harness the strength of digital platforms and to take action using these resources.
Moreover, utilizing a digital platform such as social media has been a trend in our society particularly with youth. The trend can be proven by the high number of internet users in Indonesia and youth who are 12-24 years of age contribute the highest number of the total internet users.
During the discussion, the issue of maintaining members and followers was raised. Regarding this issue, Do Something Indonesia shared what it takes to have good posts in an organization, social media that can make its members and followers not only stay updated but attract them to always look up any information and become actively involved in sharing any ideas and comments. Some other organizations also shared their experiences where it is indeed difficult to follow the diverse characteristics and personality of each member and follower. Thus, organizations need to think before sharing its photos and ideas, as it is well known that a photo tells a thousand words and it reflects the uniqueness of its organization or community.
At the end of the program, Do Something Indonesia challenged all participants to join its campaign on the spot. Surprisingly, there were many submissions and participants who were mostly interested to join campaigns which were in line with their goals, such as campaigns on #TemankuHebat and #TalkToStranger. Finally, some prizes were given to the best posts.
During its three years of existence, Do Something Indonesia has committed to be a significant social movement and platform that can provide youth with alternative solutions for addressing social issues in different ways. And this year, community gathering is our signature to engage local communities and organizations to create common ground and fight for social inequality in their surroundings.