WANDA PONIKA
WANDA PONIKA believes that everything we have in this world is entrusted to us by God. She tells Liviani Putri that she sees herself as His extended hands in bringing blessings to others
Creating a Chain of Kindness
“It was a calling,” says Wanda Ponika when asked why she’s busy with so many charitable and social projects. She has a demanding schedule as principal of Wanda House of Jewels, and on top of that there are her responsibilities as a wife and mother of three. “I think everything just happens, and there’s an inexplicable happiness that you feel when you’re giving back,” Wanda explains. “No matter how big or small a project may be, it can take up much of your time, energy, skills, everything. It’s just a matter of whether you want to commit to it or not.”
Even during the pandemic, when so many people’s activities are restricted to home life, Wanda continues to work actively on charitable projects. “These days,” she points out “the channels for spreading kindness are wide open, thanks to the new communications technology and social media. Previously, we had to present our projects in front of live audiences. But today, we can present through webinars, streaming services like IG Live and many more digital media. I know it doesn’t have the same feeling as talking to people in a room, but social media can actually reach more people and create more impact.
“Because in these uncertain times, it’s all about mindset. How do we take care of our mental health at this time? That’s why I think it’s important to keep ourselves busy. For instance, I love to create mentoring videos for those who have just lost their jobs. Perhaps they want to start a new small business through (Instagram’s) IGTV (video app). I’m doing information sharing sessions, giving people my knowledge and point of view as a professional turned entrepreneur. Doing all of this work feels great, especially when I see young people coming to learn and mothers who want to create their own businesses. I’m happy that I’m able to utilise social media to bring something meaningful to others’ lives and give them a better sense of wellbeing.”
Wanda has been doing charity work for more than a decade. “I started with Yayasan Jantung Indonesia (YJI), the heart disease foundation, supporting several of their campaigns. Through Wanda House of Jewels, I launched a CSR (corporate social responsibility) programme to help kids who had been born with congenital heart diseases. For example, I designed a special necklace. The proceeds from this project go to the foundation we collaborate with. Clients buy the necklaces in my boutique, but their payments go straight to the foundation.”
Wanda is particularly interested in assisting cancer foundations because her own husband happens to be a cancer survivor. Together with their children Brandon, Brenda and Bella, she says, they’ve been able to create something impactful as a family. “Our children have been very understanding since they were young. They’re active supporters of the Indonesian Children’s Cancer Foundation (YKAKI). We started out by going to Dharmais Cancer Hospital (in West Jakarta) with blankets, toys and foods for the patients. I also brought the kids to experience the activities at YJI. All of this helped them develop a desire to give to those in need.
“As the children grew up, they took on bigger responsibilities. For example, they used their own pocket money to help YKAKI organise a trip for the children. Together with Saab Shares (a provider of accommodation, part-time education and access to healthcare for underprivileged children and low-income families) they were actively teaching children and donating food and toys. Today, they have their own foundation, together with Veronica Tan’s children, called Anak Indonesia Bersatu. They give food to underprivileged families in eight locations in the Jabodetabek area.”
All of this just part of Wanda’s charity work. On several occasions she and some friends have done “little things”, like visiting mothers and children in slum areas to find out about the common problems they share. They also give mothers cookery classes. What makes Wanda stand out is her ability “to connect people and organisations to achieve their goals.” She has built a strong network and her ability to develop and maintain relationships gives her a big advantage. When it comes to sharing and giving, she is able to connect people who have the same interests. She doesn’t hesitate to knock on people’s doors and ask for their help when she needs it.