Bandung, 29th March 2025 — What if stepping out of your comfort zone could change your life? This is exactly what happened to Tiara Ananda Tumbelaka as an active member of AIESEC in Bandung. She has been part of AIESEC for one term (equivalent to a year) and recently began her second term about a month ago. Before officially joining as a member, Tiara was an external Organizing Committee member for Global Village Winter Peak 2023 by AIESEC in Bandung. She then started her first term as the Team Leader of Engagement with AIESEC Marketing, simultaneously taking on short-term roles such as Marketing Organizing Committee for Impact Circle and Program Conference Committee for Local Conference 24.2. Here’s a closer look at her inspiring AIESEC journey!
Why AIESEC?
Open Booth AIESEC in Bandung at ITB X 2024 (Source: AIESEC Internal Use Only)
Tiara often felt like she was falling behind compared to her peers. Eager to explore opportunities for growth, she stumbled upon AIESEC—a global leadership-focused organization. Lacking prior organizational experience, she doubted her chances of acceptance but decided to go for it anyway.
However, she told herself at that moment.
“I had nothing to lose. I prepared diligently for every stage of the application process—from screening and LGD to interviews and probation—giving my best effort,” Tiara said.
After through several recruitment process, Tiara received her acceptance email and became an active member of AIESEC in Bandung.
At first, she had no clear expectations. With no prior experience, Tiara was simply hoping not to mess up. But what she didn’t anticipate was how AIESEC would push her beyond her fears.
“AIESEC completely transformed me. I used to avoid challenges and lacked confidence. But through AIESEC, I confronted those fears head-on, growing into the person I am today,” she uttered.
Pushing the Limit, Finding the Rhythm
One of Tiara’s most demanding experiences occurred at the end of her first term when she applied for the role of Local Committee Vice President. The selection process, compressed into just two weeks, was intense and overwhelming. However, those two weeks proved to be invaluable.
“Despite the pressure, I gained so much insight in such a short time. More importantly, I had amazing fellow candidates who supported me throughout the journey. It was challenging, yet one of the most fulfilling experiences in my AIESEC journey,” Tiara added.
Managing both university and AIESEC was no easy feat. Joining in her second semester, Tiara had to quickly adapt to balancing academic responsibilities with organizational commitments. However, this challenge helped her develop essential time management skills and adaptability.
“I learned to maximize tools like Google Calendar and Google Sheets to stay organized. It wasn’t always easy, but the experience taught me resilience and efficiency,” she mentioned.
Leadership Experience
Tiara and her friends in Indonesia Youth Leadership Conference 2024 (Source: AIESEC Internal Use Only)
Before AIESEC, Tiara had never taken on leadership roles. However, she soon found herself leading a team of four talented individuals.
“Leadership isn’t about titles. It’s about realizing that together, we can achieve more than we ever could alone. My team’s unique strengths complemented each other, and working through challenges together reshaped my perspective on leadership and life,” Tiara said.
Her first AIESEC event, Global Village Winter Peak 2023, was particularly eye-opening. Focused on cross-cultural understanding, it introduced her to people from diverse backgrounds. Furthermore, her role in marketing AIESEC Future Leaders & Local Volunteer allowed her to help others discover their potential, making a meaningful impact.
AIESEC’s Role in Her Growth
EWA Marketing 24.25 members of AIESEC in Bandung (Source: AIESEC Internal Use Only)
Through AIESEC, Tiara gained experiences she never imagined possible.
“AIESEC’s mission is to achieve peace and fulfillment of humankind’s potential. Before joining, I wasn’t even aware of my own potential. But by embracing challenges, working with inspiring individuals, and engaging in cross-cultural experiences, I discovered that I am part of something much bigger. This realization gave me a sense of purpose, and AIESEC truly changed my life,” she shared.
Moreover, AIESEC has taught her many things that university doesn’t. Majoring in Product/Industrial Design, Tiara was able to develop her skills in that field, enhancing her practical knowledge beyond academic learning. AIESEC provided her with hands-on experience in marketing, bridging the gap between theoretical learning and real-world application.
Lastly, Tiara advised all the future leaders out there.
“Do not be afraid to fail. The regret of never trying is much harder to bear.”
Tiara’s story is a testament to the power of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Through AIESEC, she not only embraced challenges but also found a greater purpose—one that continues to shape her journey.
(woa/wlm)
Want to know more about AIESEC programs and events? Check out more about the international leadership organization AIESEC in Indonesia through our Instagram account @aiesecindonesia.