Ascott Waterplace Surabaya commemorated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 with an uplifting initiative titled “Rise The Dream”, a program designed to offer support, motivation, and creative expression for children with disabilities. The lobby transformed into a vibra nt space filled with energy and optimism, reflecting the belief that, as General Manager Handrian Wijaya put it, “supporting children with disabilities is not solely the responsibility of parents — it belongs to all of us, and it can begin with something simple, like giving them room to express themselves.”
To bring this spirit to life, Ascott Waterplace Surabaya collaborated with Kaluna Living, a local ceramic-wear artisan brand, to host a special design competition for students from Yayasan AORA Surabaya. Participants were invited to create artwork under the theme “Disability and Year-End Festivities”, with the winning designs selected as the official visuals for a limited-edition mug collection. The initiative, Handrian noted, reflects Ascott’s pride in “being part of such a meaningful moment.”
From dozens of submissions, three standout designs were chosen and transformed into the final mug series — a milestone that not only showcased artistic talent but also nurtured confidence and inclusion. Kaluna Living’s CEO and founder Yustika expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, sharing that “we feel a responsibility to spark the spirit of dreaming in these children, and it’s an honor for Kaluna Living to be part of this project.” The brand also introduced a special-edition mug named “Oniria”, inspired by the Greek word for “dream,” with part of the proceeds dedicated to supporting AORA’s programs and flood-relief efforts in Sumatra.
The competition’s grand winner, Aisya Ayu Rahmah (16), impressed the judges with a design that seamlessly blended the identities of Ascott, Kaluna, and the disability community. Her artwork features an infinity symbol representing resilience, a horse symbolizing Ascott Limited, the iconic Ascott Waterplace building, and natural elements reflecting Kaluna Living — a harmonious composition that captured the event’s core message of collaboration and equality. Second-place winners Erie Ludyana Handayani (23) and Rafan Mulia Adipasha (18) also delivered thoughtful interpretations through lotus motifs and nature-inspired elements.
Beyond the awards, Rise The Dream also highlighted the skills of AORA students enrolled in barista and photography classes. Barista students prepared coffee for guests, while photography students documented the event — a rare opportunity that broadened their real-world experience. According to Mohammad Syaroni, Marketing Communication of Ascott Waterplace Surabaya, the initiative was designed to create a year-end celebration that carries deeper meaning, because “joy belongs to everyone — including children with disabilities.”
As one of Surabaya’s leading serviced apartments and a long-time favorite among expatriates, Ascott Waterplace Surabaya continues to champion social, artistic, and cultural values through its services. This festive season, the property also introduced its Serenity Christmas and O’Season Finale promotions, starting from IDR 1,500,000 nett per night, offering guests full access to facilities and a spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks celebration at Surabaya’s largest thematic swimming pool.
