Stepping onto Brazilian soil felt surreal. I was here, not as a tourist, but as a representative of Indonesia at Game Jam Plus. The weight of responsibility sat heavily on my shoulders, but so did the thrill of adventure. As a young woman in game development, this was more than just a competition; it was a statement—a declaration that I belonged in this space.
A Milestone Moment at 21
Turning 21 in a foreign country, surrounded by talented developers from across the globe, felt like a defining moment. It wasn’t just about showcasing my skills; it was about proving to myself that I could navigate the world independently. From handling logistics to managing cultural differences, every step of this journey strengthened my resolve.
The Journey to Brazil
I was fully funded for this trip, traveling as the leader of Game Jam Plus Indonesia. Our team reached the highest number of jammers, making our presence known on the global stage. My flight took a full day, transiting in Doha and Spain before finally landing in Brazil. The craziest part? I boarded that flight after battling a severe case of Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL), a condition that required 20 sessions of hyperbaric treatment at 2.5 – 3 ATA. The fact that I nailed this journey despite all of that still feels surreal. As a woman in game development and tech, this experience was nothing short of incredible.
The Highs and Lows of the Experience
Staying at a guesthouse in Brazil was an adventure in itself. It was a mix of camaraderie, late-night brainstorming sessions, and navigating unexpected challenges. The cultural exchange was exhilarating—I met people who shared my passion for gaming but had vastly different approaches and experiences.
Yet, this journey wasn’t without its struggles. Being in a new country meant stepping out of my comfort zone daily. Language barriers, long hours, and even health issues tested my resilience. But with every challenge I overcame, I felt myself growing stronger, both as a developer and as a person.
I only spent three days in Brazil before flying back, but I made the most of it. I visited Parque Lage, the Botanical Garden, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Christ the Redeemer—all of it made possible with Uber rides and student card discounts. Every moment counted, and I was determined to experience as much as I could in my short time there.
What This Experience Taught Me
Representing Indonesia on an international stage reinforced an important lesson: success isn’t just about talent—it’s about adaptability, perseverance, and the courage to take up space where you belong. It’s about pushing past self-doubt and embracing the unknown.
This experience wasn’t just about winning or losing; it was about learning, growing, and proving to myself that I am capable of more than I ever imagined.
What’s Next?
This is just the beginning. With new skills, connections, and a renewed sense of purpose, I’m excited for what the future holds. Whether it’s building innovative games, mentoring aspiring developers, or finding new opportunities, one thing is clear—I’m ready to take on the world, one challenge at a time.
To every young woman in game development: take the leap. The world is waiting for your ideas, your creativity, and your voice.