On a warm August morning in 2024, the Annika Linden Centre (ALC) prepared to welcome guests for what would become one of its most memorable Open Days. The Centre, a beacon of hope and impact in Bali, was filled with anticipation. This event wasn’t just another gathering; it was a convergence of hearts and minds, all united in their commitment to inclusion and empowerment.
Our founder, Mark Weingard, arrived with a group of ten bright young talents from his hospitality company, the Iniala Group. They were eager to witness firsthand the lives being transformed at the Centre.
The day unfolded in two distinct chapters. The first began on Monday, August 5th, as old friends of the Centre came together once more. Among them were long-time donors, whose generosity had fueled countless stories of resilience and recovery. As they walked through the halls, they saw how their contributions had been intricately woven into the fabric of the Centre’s success. It was a day of reconnection and renewal. New partnerships were forged, with ALC signing agreements with Hilton Group and DNetwork with Mercure Hotel Legian, ensuring that the work would continue, expanding its reach and impact.
Among the distinguished guests was Ni Luh Djelantik, a senator with a substantial social media following. Her presence was pivotal, amplifying the Centre’s message and extending its reach to a broader audience.
The second chapter of this story unfolded on Friday, August 9th, marking a new beginning for many. This wasn’t just an Open Day; it was a celebration of a journey that had begun a month earlier. DNetwork Indonesia along with ALC/Inspirasia Foundation, UCP Roda Untuk Kemanusiaan, and Denpasar City Social Service had spent the past weeks leading the ‘Aku Mampu Inklusif’ campaign. They visited 32 companies, advocating for the employment of persons with disability, breaking down barriers, and opening doors to new opportunities.
Seventeen of these companies gathered at ALC that Friday, their representatives ready to make commitments that would change lives. Each one signed a letter, not just as a formality, but as a promise—a promise to hire, to include, and to empower.