Yowana Padangtegal

Yowana Padangtegal is a community-based organization in Padangtegal Village (Ubud, Bali) that focuses on the youth of the village, particularly the Sekeha Teruna (youth organization), which is a traditional Balinese group dedicated to promoting social, cultural, and community development among young people. "Yowana" means "youth" in Balinese, and this group is crucial for ensuring the sustainability of Balinese culture, customs, and social cohesionthrough active participation and leadership from the younger generation.

Key Aspects of Yowana Padangtegal:

1. Cultural and Social Engagement

One of the main functions of Yowana Padangtegal is to keep traditional Balinese customs and cultural practicesalive among the youth. The group encourages young people to actively participate in local temple ceremonies, rituals, and festivals, which are a fundamental part of life in Padangtegal Village. This includes:

• Traditional Dance: Youth from Yowana Padangtegal often learn and perform Balinese dance, a central part of the island’s artistic heritage.

• Gamelan Music: The youth group is involved in the practice and performance of Balinese gamelan, an ensemble of traditional musical instruments that play a key role in ceremonies and cultural events.

• Temple Festivals: Young members are integral in the preparation and participation in temple festivals, which are significant events in Balinese Hinduism.

By participating in these activities, Yowana Padangtegal helps young people develop a deeper connection to their religious beliefs and cultural identity, ensuring that these traditions are passed down to future generations.

2. Youth Leadership and Community Involvement

Yowana Padangtegal is not just about cultural preservation; it also plays a key role in the social development of the village. Members of the youth group are encouraged to take on leadership roles within their communities. Through their involvement in village governance, community service, and environmental projects, they gain a sense of responsibility and contribute to the overall development of the village. Some of the activities include:

• Community Service: Organizing community cleanups, helping in the maintenance of village temples, and supporting the village's environmental sustainability efforts (like waste management).

• Social Projects: Yowana Padangtegal is involved in local youth empowerment projects, like organizing youth education workshops, and providing support for younger children in the community through various educational initiatives.

By developing leadership skills, the youth of Padangtegal are prepared to take on important roles in both their villageand wider society.

3. Eco-Tourism and Environmental Awareness

The youth group also plays an active role in the promotion of eco-tourism and environmental sustainability within the village. Padangtegal is located near the popular Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a key attraction in Ubud. With growing numbers of visitors to the village, there is a need to balance tourism with sustainable practices. Yowana Padangtegal is involved in initiatives such as:

• Environmental Education: Organizing awareness campaigns for the youth and the wider community on topics such as waste management, sustainable farming, and the preservation of Bali's natural environment.

• Eco-Friendly Practices: Promoting green practices in daily life, such as the use of eco-friendly products, reducing plastic waste, and creating awareness about the importance of protecting local wildlife, including the monkey population in the Monkey Forest.

4. Youth Empowerment and Personal Development

Yowana Padangtegal is also a platform for youth empowerment, helping young people develop a sense of self-worth, confidence, and community responsibility. This includes:

• Skill Development: Through workshops and training, the youth group helps young people gain skills in various areas such as leadership, communication, event organization, and even entrepreneurship.

• Educational Programs: The group often runs programs to support the educational development of young people, whether through tutoring, career counseling, or scholarship programs.

By encouraging participation in various social, cultural, and environmental initiatives, Yowana Padangtegal provides young people with opportunities to contribute to their village’s development and their own personal growth.

5. Social Activities and Networking

In addition to cultural and environmental activities, Yowana Padangtegal is a space for social interaction and community bonding. Members come together to organize events such as:

• Sports Competitions: Hosting sports events or games to encourage teamwork and healthy competition.

• Youth Festivals: Organizing youth-oriented celebrations or cultural nights that showcase local talent and creativity.

• Social Networking: Building relationships between the youth of different villages in Ubud and creating networks that can help them in the future, both personally and professionally.

6. Support for the Sacred Monkey Forest

The youth of Yowana Padangtegal are often involved in initiatives that support the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, one of the main attractions in the area. This can include:

• Community Outreach: Helping educate tourists about the importance of respecting the forest and the monkey population, ensuring that visitors follow guidelines to avoid disturbing the animals or damaging the environment.

• Support for Local Conservation: Engaging in tree planting or other activities that directly contribute to the preservation of the sanctuary.

Conclusion

Yowana Padangtegal is a vibrant and dynamic youth group that plays an important role in both the preservation of cultural traditions and the development of a sustainable future for Padangtegal Village. By engaging with the community through cultural practices, social development, environmental initiatives, and leadership training, the group ensures that the younger generation is empowered to take on roles that benefit the entire village. Through collaboration with the village leadership and active participation in local issues, Yowana Padangtegal exemplifies how youth can be central to cultural preservation, community development, and environmental sustainability.