
FEB Launches ‘Berlayar’ Program to Encourage Students to Share Their Stories and Prioritize Mental Health
FEB UGM is firmly committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming campus ecosystem that prioritizes the mental health of its academic community. Through the Career and Student Development Unit (CSDU), FEB UGM has developed several initiatives to promote mental well-being, especially among students. One of these initiatives is the “Berlayar” (Bercerita Melalui Layar, or Storytelling Through the Screen) program: a film screening and meaningful dialogue session held in collaboration with The Equity Initiative Funding, Rumpun Nurani Foundation, and the Family Advocacy Institute of Indonesia on Friday (25 April 2025) at the FEB UGM Audio Visual Room.
The program offered a shared experience of watching the movie Serenada, which tells the story of Lanang, a high school student facing one of the most challenging periods of his life. Living without his mother and struggling to build a dynamic relationship with his father, Lanang feels unsupported in pursuing his dreams. His home becomes an uncomfortable space, leading him to seek solace elsewhere.
After the film screening, the organizers invited participants to engage in an open dialogue session to help them express their feelings and stories.
“This program is designed to encourage participants to express their feelings courageously. Storytelling is not easy, especially for those not used to opening up. Therefore, a trigger is needed to help people start sharing. We hope that participants will feel empowered to express their inner thoughts after watching this movie,” said program facilitator Nur Rohmah Itsnaini.
Through Lanang’s story, participants were encouraged to share their perspectives and emotions about the movie. The facilitator led the sharing session with a warm and inclusive approach, creating a safe space for all participants to express themselves.
Report by: Orie Priscylla Mapeda Lumalan
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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