At Akademi Kristus, our leadership and Co-Founder team are central to our mission of empowering youth and transforming lives through holistic development. Guided by the SPIRE model (Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Relational, and Emotional), each leader contributes a unique combination of experience, passion, and cultural insight.

Erma

Director of Akademi Kristus

I came from a broken home and had a rough childhood. My experiences as a child made me realise how I could help kids out there who share similar stories. When we moved to Bali, I prayed to God for a children’s ministry because I have always had a heart for kids. Within 24 hours, He answered my prayer (be careful what you wish for).

If you ask me what inspired me to start the organisation, my answer would be God’s calling and a desire to serve others. Watching these kids grow, gain opportunities in life, and have hope motivates me to keep the organisation going. As long as it aligns with God’s will, I will continue this work.

Having experienced a difficult childhood, many of these kids have similar backgrounds. I’m grateful to connect with them on an emotional level, which fosters trust. Together, we can pray, provide them with the support they need, and offer education to help them lead better lives.

My vision is to see the organisation expand. We aim to have our own space, transportation, and a place where these children can call home and feel a sense of family, not only for our students but also for our staff members.

Email: erma@akademi-kristus.org

Geoff 

CPI Director and Representative

Our family moved to Bali from Java, where I had been leading the English Department at a school with over 1,700 students. We came with a heart to serve those on the fringes of society and soon connected with two communities we now refer to as Kampung 1 and Kampung 2.

We began simply, teaching children on a tarpaulin under a tree and building relationships with their families. What started as a small effort has grown organically into what Akademi Kristus (AK) is today.

As some of our students graduated from the government equivalency program (Grade 12 level), we launched Creative Pathways Indonesia (CPI). CPI was created to provide meaningful employment for AK students and to generate sustainable income to support AK’s programs. My role is to coordinate CPI’s various enterprises and oversee day-to-day operations.

What drives me to be a part of AK’s mission is a long story; I’d be happy to share it with you someday if we meet in person. In short, I was lost, and now I’m found. My life’s purpose is to help others find their way. Because of my journey, I feel deeply called to walk with those often overlooked by society.Our SPIRE model represents the difference between teaching and discipling. You can teach a skill or share information, but to truly disciple someone, you must engage the whole person.

Lasting change doesn’t come from a syllabus or a checklist. It comes from a genuine relationship, trust, and mentorship. It’s a journey of walking alongside someone, encouraging growth in every area of life. This approach takes time, sensitivity, and wisdom, but it’s the only way to see fundamental transformation.I envision a future where AK students receive quality education and nutrition, and then move into meaningful employment, whether through CPI ventures or opportunities beyond AK. I see CPI helping fund a significant portion of AK’s operations, creating greater stability for our students and their families.

Over the years, we’ve focused on raising and training local leaders, not just to maintain what we’ve built, but to improve it. I see my role as continuing to facilitate that kind of growth. A good leader should work toward becoming redundant. When that happens, there’s no limit to how much AK can grow.

Email: info@akademi-kristus.org 

Woon

AK Ambassador 

As a former hostage negotiator, police leader, and now coach and consultant, I’ve spent my life navigating high-pressure environments and building bridges across divides. But my heart has always been with those on the margins. Akademi Kristus was born from a vision to create a place where young people could discover their God-given worth, develop life-changing skills, and step boldly into their future, no matter their starting point.

Transformation happens when people are seen, known, and deeply valued. For me, AK is more than a school. It’s a community of hope. We meet our students where they’re at, walk alongside them, and sow into their future. That’s why I support AK. It’s personal.

I follow the PEMS (Physical, Emotional, Mental, Spiritual) model. It isn’t just a framework, it’s the heartbeat of everything we do. We don’t just educate; we grow whole people. We invest in their physical well-being, emotional maturity, mental resilience, and spiritual identity. These pillars guide our programs, shape our staff culture, and serve as a thread through every interaction at AK, whether in the classroom, the community, or the training ground.

My vision is to see Akademi Kristus become a generational movement, where students become mentors, families are restored, and whole communities are transformed. My role is to protect the culture, serve the mission, and continue developing programs and people who live out our values with compassion, courage, and conviction.

Email: woonooi@akademi-kristus.org

At Akademi Kristus, our managers play a pivotal role in bringing our vision to life. They actively support and guide young people’s development through impactful daily programs, mentorship, and genuine care. Empowered by the SPIRE model (Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Relational, and Emotional), each manager leads with unwavering compassion, commitment, and a profound understanding of the communities we serve.

Grecea 

Financial Manager & Logistics Supervisor

I joined Akademi Kristus in 2024, bringing a background and diploma in international business management with prior experience as an administrator for a national distributor. My current role combines financial oversight, operational leadership, and strategic communications, all within an organisation deeply committed to community impact.

As Financial Manager, I’m responsible for tracking all income and expenditure, ensuring transparency and accountability in our budgeting and reporting processes. I also supervise both our content creation team and the Brawler Bar staff, helping to guide their workflow and maintain high standards across our public-facing platforms. A key focus of my role is managing the logistical supply chain for the research, development, and production of Brawler Bar. I also liaise with our Cornerstone members, oversee donor communications, and coordinate the creation and distribution of newsletters and stakeholder updates.

Since joining AK, I’ve felt a more profound sense of purpose in my work. I’ve been encouraged to explore creativity in ways I hadn’t expected, and I’ve grown personally as a leader. More than anything, I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of something meaningful, for the perspective it’s given me on life and community, and the impact we can have when we work together. What makes this work truly special is the people, especially the children. Being around them brings so much joy and inspiration. There’s a genuine energy here, a spirit of hope and growth, and I feel fortunate to play a part in their journey. 

Every day, I’m reminded why this work matters, and I’m proud to be contributing to something bigger than myself.

Nistas

School Principal 

I joined Akademi Kristus in 2020 after discovering the opportunity through a job advertisement. With a Bachelor of Education majoring in English and two years of experience as a private English instructor, I was eager to bring my passion for education into a role that combined purpose with impact. Since joining AK, I have progressed to Second-in-Charge (2IC), where I support academic delivery and team leadership across the Education Program as the School Principal. My core responsibilities include teaching in the Government Equivalency Class and delivering English, literacy, and numeracy programs for students of all ages. Additionally, I supervise teaching staff at our Sanur and Renon campuses, oversee lesson planning, manage school supplies, and coordinate major events within the organisation.

Professionally, working at Akademi Kristus has broadened my perspective on education, not only as a tool for learning but also as a means to build confidence, character, and opportunities in a child’s life. Personally, it has been a journey of growth, creativity, and deeper purpose. I have had the chance to connect with incredible people, explore innovative teaching methods, and develop my leadership skills in a dynamic and supportive environment.

One of the most meaningful aspects of this role has been working closely with Erma and Geoff, witnessing the life-changing impact of AK’s mission first-hand. Observing our students grow, not only academically but also as individuals, reminds me daily of why this work is essential. I end each day knowing I have contributed to shaping a brighter future for the next generation.

At Akademi Kristus, our team is made up of dedicated individuals who bring energy, heart, and purpose to everything they do. From maintaining our facilities and preparing meals to supporting students and assisting with creative projects, each person plays a vital role in making our programs run smoothly. Their behind-the-scenes efforts allow us to create a safe, welcoming, and empowering environment for every young person who walks through our doors. 

Bu Yumi

Nutrition Program Coordinator 

There was a time in my life when everything felt uncertain. I was unemployed, struggling to provide for my daughter, and carrying the heavy weight of feeling lost. In 2023, during one of the hardest seasons I’ve ever faced, Nistas introduced me to Erma and Geoff. That meeting changed everything.

Erma and Geoff saw me. Not just my circumstances, but my potential. In 2024, they offered me a role as the cook for the nutrition program at Akademi Kristus. It wasn’t just a job, it was a lifeline. A chance to start over, to stand on my own two feet, and to create something better for my daughter and me.

Since then, I’ve grown in ways I never imagined. I now manage the entire nutrition program. Each day, I prepare healthy meals, design nutritious recipes, coordinate logistics, manage supplies, and keep the Sanur facility clean and running smoothly. I’ve also become the Correspondent for the SOS Program and Dapur Berkat, two foundations that help provide food for the children we serve.

But the real impact of AK isn’t just in what I do, it’s in how I’ve changed. I’ve gained new skills, confidence, and a sense of pride in my work. For the first time in a long time, I feel empowered. The trust AK has placed in me has allowed me to believe in myself again. I’ve been accepted for who I am. And through my own efforts, I’ve earned the respect of others and, perhaps even more importantly, my own self-respect.

Every time I see a child smiling over a warm meal I’ve prepared, I’m reminded of how far I’ve come and how much love I’ve poured into this work. Akademi Kristus didn’t just give me a job. They gave me hope. They gave me purpose. And they gave me the chance to rewrite my story.

Video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHzSKRbzcaK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 

Johan

Disability Education Teacher & Computer Teacher 

When I look back, joining Akademi Kristus was truly a second chance, a turning point that brought new purpose, confidence, and direction to my life. I now wake up every day excited to work, knowing I’m part of something meaningful. I feel supported, empowered, and encouraged by people who believe in me and push me to grow.

Before joining AK, I was close friends with Nistas. In 2023, she introduced me to a job opportunity that changed everything. At the time, I couldn’t have imagined the doors it would open, not just professionally, but personally. I’ve gained more than just employment. I’ve found a place where I’m seen, valued, and given space to grow into my potential. Working here has taught me real discipline and a deep sense of purpose. I’ve developed skills I never imagined I’d have, like using a 3D printer, cutting hair, and working with graphic design software. My English has improved, and I’ve been able to explore my creativity through music and dance. Each new experience has helped me believe in my own capabilities more.

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is teaching in the Disability Education (DE) program. Every Wednesday, I visit the homes of students with disabilities to provide one-on-one lessons. These sessions focus on developing cognitive and practical communication skills. This work has taught me not only how to teach but also how to truly connect with each person through empathy, patience, and respect for their unique journey. In addition to the DE program, I teach computer classes, literacy and numeracy to younger children, and I organise and lead dance classes. I also handle lesson planning and maintain our computer equipment. Every responsibility has helped me grow as an educator and team member.

What makes AK special is not just the work we do, but the people we do it with. Having a stable job and a fresh, home-cooked meal every day is a blessing. But more than that, it’s the presence of strong mentors and leadership that makes this place feel like home. Erma and Geoff have cared for me not just as an employee, but as a person. Their support and kindness have deeply shaped who I am today, and that’s something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.

Desi

Assistant Teacher 

I first joined Akademi Kristus in 2022 as a student, eager to learn and grow. Over time, through consistent effort, dedication, and a deepening passion for education, I began supporting classes and gradually took on more responsibility. My journey from student to assistant teacher has been one of steady growth and hard work. By 2023, I was fully engaged in the day-to-day life of our Renon campus.

My role has grown to include helping teach literacy, numeracy, English, and art to children aged 4 to 10. I also lead a computer class and help manage the daily operations of the campus, everything from lesson planning and general cleaning to distributing lunches through our nutrition program.

I first heard about AK through a friend of my mother’s, and joining has been one of the best things that’s ever happened in my life. I’ve discovered a love for working with children and helping them grow, not just academically, but also in confidence and character.

Alongside my work at AK, I am continuing my education and will graduate in June 2026. Being part of this community has helped me become more disciplined, goal-oriented, and confident. It’s also given me the financial stability to support my family and invest in my future.

I’ve always dreamed of being a teacher, and while I still have a journey ahead of me, this role has brought me closer to that dream than ever. More than just a workplace, AK has become my second home, a place where I feel supported, challenged, and inspired every day.

Video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEROw2Pvcb2/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 

Reynaldi 

Graphic Designer and AK Creation Member  

I was just 15 when I first started at Akademi Kristus. I studied and helped clean the gym, but even in those early days, I knew this place was special. In 2023, a door opened when a position on the content creation team became available. I asked for the opportunity, and I was given a chance.

That chance changed everything. I’m part of the creative team, doing what I love daily: developing social media content, managing camera gear, shaping ideas, editing videos, and designing graphics. I did this all while continuing my studies at Akademi Kristus. I graduated in June of 2025.

Being a part of Akademi Kristus has fundamentally transformed my life. I have developed valuable skills, found purpose, and grown in confidence. I can now help support my family financially, which is something I never imagined I would be able to do at this age. More importantly, I have found a place where I can learn, grow, and work, all surrounded by people who believe in me.

I am living proof of what can happen when someone is given a chance.

Here, I am not just building a career but also a future. I am encouraged to dream, to create, and to become someone who lifts others, too. This community has taught me how to work and what is possible when you are seen, supported, and given the space to thrive.

Video:  https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKBM3aAhBDF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=eGtoeWxhczhxd2x2 

Epos

Production and Facilities Maintenance Officer

At the start of 2025, I was introduced to Erma and Geoff for a job opportunity at Akademi Kristus. That moment opened the door for me to become part of something truly meaningful. My role includes maintaining the AK facilities, handling maintenance issues, delivering food to the Renon campus, and transporting students to various events. I also assist with deep cleaning for the nutrition program, run essential errands to help AK operate smoothly, support content creation, and contribute to production research for Brawler Bar.

Being a part of AK has helped me develop valuable skills that have positively shaped my life. I’ve learned the importance of discipline, commitment, and working hard for something bigger than myself. These are experiences and lessons I would never have gained without AK. The best part of my job is being surrounded by an incredible community. I genuinely enjoy the work I do, and it’s deeply rewarding to know I’m contributing to a mission that’s creating brighter futures for others.

Pak Genta

Program Support & Transport Officer 

I started working with Akademi Kristus in 2018, where my first role involved transporting students from the Disability Education program to and from events, as well as launching the walking program. Over time, my responsibilities grew to include coordinating the walking program, continuing student transport for AK activities, and providing haircuts for the students.

From an economic perspective, working at AK has been an incredible opportunity for me and my family, especially after I lost my previous job. Beyond the financial support, what I value most is the sense of community. At AK, we’re like a family, the leadership genuinely cares about people, and there are opportunities to learn, grow, and develop. I hope to see AK continue to expand and positively impact even more lives in the future.