A letter from our founder
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My journey towards founding Solar Chapter began back in 2017, during my senior year at the University of Illinois. From a young age, I was deeply troubled by the stark inequality between rural and urban regions, particularly in terms of infrastructure and access to basic necessities. This concern gradually morphed into a passionate commitment to rural development. As an electrical engineering student, I believe:
"Electricity was not just about providing light in the dark; it had the power to illuminate people's lives and create opportunities for education, healthcare, and economic growth."
But it wasn't until I visited Umutnana, a remote village in eastern Indonesia and our very first project site, that I came face-to-face with the harsh reality. Witnessing firsthand the villagers walking for 3-4 hours just to get water was a stark wake-up call.
As I was struggling to find a way to make a meaningful contribution, I had an insight that led me to establish Solar Chapter. This platform was designed to enable young people to participate in rural development efforts, as I firmly believed that many Indonesian youths, like me, were eager to contribute to their country but felt disconnected from the issues. My passion for rural development and a strong belief in the transformative power of solar energy propelled me forward. Even though solar energy wasn't as popular or widely used at that time, I recognized its potential to create significant change in communities that desperately needed it.
A compilation of pictures capturing the moments
I shared with the local people in the villages
Over six years, I've observed that our impact extend beyond providing access to clean water. Our efforts have empowered communities and transformed lives, enabling villagers to shower twice daily, thereby enhancing hygiene, health, and education. Moreover, we've fostered economic empowerment and climate resilience, enhancing the overall well-being of the community.
"This highlights how access to water can significantly uplift a community's potential and instill hope for a brighter future."
Our work is far from complete. We are committed to delivering water to the communities that need it the most, ensuring its accessibility for generations to come.