Welcoming Dinner for Hirai Foundation Volunteers 2025
Friday, January 17, 2025 | Efek Samping Coffee Shop (Author by Laura Yuni)

Friday night, January 17, 2025, was a special moment for the selected volunteers of the Hirai Foundation. Held at Efek Samping Coffee Shop, a strategically located and warmly designed café, the Welcoming Dinner was filled with warmth and enthusiasm. The attending volunteers were not just chosen individuals but people ready to make a real contribution toward positive change.
Carrying the theme of togetherness, this event was designed to introduce the vision and mission of the Hirai Foundation, foster close relationships among volunteers, and build a spirit of collaboration. With various engaging activities, the event successfully created a night full of joy and beautiful memories.
A Warm and Memorable Opening
The event began with a warm welcome from the host. The participants, arriving with enthusiastic smiles, immediately felt a strong sense of camaraderie. After the greeting, the MC invited everyone to start with a collective prayer. Although optional, almost all participants joined sincerely, creating a sacred atmosphere in the relaxed evening.
“Tonight marks the beginning of our journey together—to learn, share, and create change,” the MC declared passionately, setting an optimistic tone for the event.
Welcome Speeches from Hirai Foundation Leaders
Following the opening, the key figures of the Hirai Foundation delivered their speeches.

- Dwi Riyan (Foundation Chairperson)
As the Chairperson, Riyan expressed gratitude and pride for the volunteers’ presence. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of synergy in creating tangible impacts.”Hirai Foundation is a place to learn together, grow together, and make a meaningful impact on others. With all of you here, we believe great changes will happen.” - Eka Cahyaningrum (CEO of Hirai Foundation)
Next, Kak Ika delivered her speech. With warmth, she spoke about the importance of volunteers as an integral part of the Hirai Foundation’s journey.”Hirai is a place where we share a vision, not just carry out a mission. Let’s make this journey more than just a program but a story we will cherish together.” - Yun Pratiwi (Comms & Community Officer)
Concluding the speeches, Kak Yun reminded everyone that communication and collaboration are key. With her relaxed approach, she encouraged participants to actively share ideas and experiences to build a strong community.”We are a diverse family, but our goal is the same: to create a positive impact on society.”
Volunteer Introductions: Full of Stories
This session was one of the most anticipated. Each volunteer introduced themselves, sharing their name, background, and motivation for joining the Hirai Foundation.
It was filled with inspiring stories and lighthearted jokes, making the atmosphere even more relaxed. Many participants shared their hopes for Hirai—whether to learn, contribute, or connect with fellow social activists.
“I feel that Hirai Foundation is the right place for me to learn and share. My hope is that we can all support each other to create a positive impact,” said one volunteer, met with applause from the group.
Presentation on Hirai Foundation

This session provided an in-depth overview of the vision, mission, and programs of the Hirai Foundation. With an engaging visual presentation, participants were invited to understand how the foundation works toward community empowerment and sustainable social change.
“We believe that great impact starts with small steps. Together, we can create real and lasting change,” the Hirai Foundation team concluded, ending the presentation with enthusiasm.
Fun Game Session: Rhyming Battle

To lighten the mood, the event featured an entertaining game: a rhyming battle. Each group was given time to craft creative, humorous rhymes that also reflected their volunteer spirit.
Laughter filled the room as participants took turns presenting their rhymes. Some were serious, while others were intentionally comedic. This session successfully energized the group and strengthened their bond.
Dinner and Snacks Together
One of the most awaited moments: dinner. The delicious meals prepared by Efek Samping Coffee Shop delighted the participants. With a variety of dishes, from main courses to signature snacks, the volunteers enjoyed their meals while engaging in relaxed conversations.
As they savored treats like brownies and mini pastries, warm conversations continued to flow. The moment felt so intimate, as if they had known each other for a long time.
“The food is amazing, but the atmosphere is what makes me feel at home. It feels like a family gathering,” one volunteer said with a satisfied smile.
Networking & Sharing Session
This session provided an opportunity for volunteers to share experiences, ideas, and plans for collaboration. In a relaxed atmosphere, they got to know each other better, expanded their networks, and inspired one another.
Some volunteers even started discussing social project ideas they wanted to pursue together.
“Discussions like this are very valuable. I feel even more convinced that with Hirai, we can accomplish something big,” said one participant.
Group Photo: Capturing the Moment

As the event neared its end, all volunteers and the Hirai Foundation team gathered for a group photo. With wide smiles and unique poses, each picture taken became a symbol of unity and the beginning of a meaningful journey.
“This is just the beginning, but this photo will remind us that we are part of something great,” the MC said before concluding the session.
A Memorable Closing
The event concluded with words of gratitude from the MC, followed by a round of applause from all participants. However, the night didn’t end there—volunteers continued chatting, enjoying the atmosphere, and growing even closer.
With spirits still high, the Welcoming Dinner served as a hopeful first step in the volunteers’ journey with the Hirai Foundation. A simple evening, yet one that left a lasting impression on everyone’s hearts. A beginning for great change—together.