pok-Thanks to her efforts in preserving and promoting local tourism and culture, Kayla Aurelie Balqis, a student of the Accounting study program, Vocational Education Program, Universitas Indonesia (UI) won the title of Deputy II Mpok Depok in the Tourism and Creative Economy Ambassador Abang Mpok Depok 2024 event. This event is an initiative of the Depok City Youth, Sports, Culture, and Tourism Office (DISPORYATA) which aims to select young men and women who are not only physically capable, but also have broad insights in the fields of tourism, culture, and the creative economy.
Kayla said that the competition not only taught her about tourism promotion, but also emphasized the importance of environmental conservation, increasing literacy, and active participation in building a better future for the city of Depok. She also said that her desire to participate in this event came from her love for dance.
As someone who has been involved in the world of dance for a long time, Kayla sees this event as a golden opportunity to preserve Depok’s local culture through art. “Dance is a powerful way to tell stories. I hope that the skills I have can be a means to introduce Depok’s cultural heritage and tourism to a wider audience,” said Kayla.
As Deputy II of Mpok Depok, Kayla brings a big vision that focuses on preserving culture and developing tourism in Depok. One of her main programs is collaboration with dance studios and local communities to promote the Cisalak Mask Dance, a traditional art that is a cultural icon of Cimanggis District.
(Photo: Kayla Aurelie Balqis, an Accounting student, who won the title of Deputy II of Mpok Depok 2024)
The goal of this program is not only to introduce the richness of Depok’s dance arts, but also to build togetherness among residents and increase pride in local culture. “Dance can be a bridge to strengthen social ties, while increasing the appeal of tourism in Depok,” said Kayla.
Kayla also faced various challenges in participating in this competition. One of the biggest challenges faced by the third semester student was overcoming nervousness when performing in front of the judges and audience. However, thanks to the full support of family, friends, and UI Vocational, Kayla managed to overcome the pressure.
“I would also like to thank Mrs. Andhita Yukihana Rahmayanti, M.Si., as the Head of the Accounting Study Program, as well as my campus friends who provided moral support and technical assistance, one of which was in preparing presentation materials. Good time management and discipline made me able to undergo the preparation for this competition without neglecting my academic responsibilities as a fifth semester student who is also undergoing industrial practice,” said Kayla.
Next, Kayla plans to hold events involving traditional dance performances combined with the participation of local communities. Through this program, Kayla wants to create a space for the community to enjoy dance and be actively involved in preserving culture. So that traditional art is not only a legacy of the past, but also part of the daily life of the Depok community.
Previously, Kayla also had the opportunity to be one of Indonesia’s representatives with the UI Krida Budaya Student Dance League (LTMUIKB) performing at the 2024 Macau International Show Parade Project Show in Macau, China. After the Abang Mpok Depok event, Kayla plans to continue to be active in promoting tourism and culture in Depok City.
(Photo: Kayla’s appearance at the 2024 Abang Mpok Depok awards night)
With high commitment, Kayla is determined to continue to contribute through the programs she carries out, including collaborating with various parties, such as local governments and creative economy actors, to create various events that can increase the tourist appeal of Depok. Kayla is also committed to utilizing social media as a wider promotional platform so that Depok’s cultural and tourism potential is better known by the public, both locally and nationally.
Kayla did not forget to give an important message to young women, she emphasized the importance of believing in yourself and your potential. Every individual has uniqueness and strength that can inspire others. In addition, she also invited not to be afraid to face challenges, because every step is a learning process.
UI Padang Vocational Education Program Director Wicaksono, S.E., Ph.D, appreciated Kayla’s achievements. According to him, Kayla’s role is an important role as a forum for introducing culture, especially the culture of Depok City. “Hopefully the mandate given to Kayla can have a positive impact in introducing Depok City culture to the general public. So that the younger generation like Kayla is increasingly aware of the importance of preserving Indonesia’s very diverse culture,” said Padang.
