Meeting Minister Risma: A Dream Fulfilled for This Inspirational PwD

PADANG (20 February 2024) - A smile never stops on the face of Alfatira Gema (24), a girl with physical disabilities who received assistance with an electric wheelchair from the Ministry of Social Affairs. Alfatira or Tira, wants to meet the Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini to directly express her gratitude because the Minister has made her wish of having an electric wheelchair come true.

"There is no need to thank you. That is my duty as Minister of Social Affairs," said Minister Risma when Tira thanked her directly.

Tira's dream of meeting the Minister came true when the Minister visited the ATENSI Creation Center of the Social Welfare Education and Training Center (BBPPKS) Padang. The Minister also had time to chat casually with Tira and her family. The Minister told success stories of persons with disabilities (PwDs) so that Tira would be even more motivated. This made the smile never leave Tira's face when she met the Minister of Social Affairs.

Tira is a survivor of the 2009 Padang earthquake. Tira, who was still in 5th grade at that time, lost her right leg. Tira then utilizes a prosthetic leg for activities.

Even though the earthquake incapacitated her, she never lost her zeal. Tira's accomplishments keep piling up. In 2009, Tira sang in front of President Susilo Bambang Yudhono on Mother's Day. Tira also got the Muri Record for Disabled Natural Disaster Victims with Exemplary Fighting Spirit in 2010.

In middle school, this young lady had already written three novels: Never Give Up (Best Seller), Incredible Adventure, and Never Fades. Tira receives rupiah from royalties on her best-selling novels. In addition, Tira took part in a student exchange program in the United States while in high school.

Tira's enthusiasm and achievements sometimes cover up the difficulties she often experiences. Tira still has difficulty walking with her prosthetic leg. As a result, the Ministry of Social Affairs has granted Tira's wish to obtain an electric wheelchair.

The Ministry of Social Affairs awarded Tira with an electric wheelchair valued at IDR 18,000,000 via BBPPKS Padang. Tira can now carry out her everyday duties more easily thanks to her wheelchair. No wonder Tira was overjoyed to receive it and wanted to meet Minister Risma to convey her gratitude.

"I am delighted to be able to meet Minister Risma. One of my dreams has come true," Tira exclaimed enthusiastically after meeting the Minister.

Tira was so excited and nervous that she forgot to hand over her previously prepared novels to Minister Risma.