Jakarta, Indonesia — Creating a safe and supportive environment for adolescent boys begins long before problems arise. It starts with adults who are willing to listen, understand, and guide them through one of the most challenging stages of life.

With this vision, Jalin Foundation officially launched RAW School, a school-based initiative designed to strengthen the role of schools and families in supporting adolescent boys. The program was introduced through the inaugural RAW Talk, held at SMA Negeri 8 Jakarta, under the theme “Becoming a Support System for Adolescent Boys Amid Peer Pressure.”

The event marked the beginning of a broader collaboration among educators, parents, and mental health professionals to help boys develop into healthy, confident, and resilient young people who are equipped to navigate today’s increasingly complex social environment.

Why RAW School Matters

Adolescence is a period of rapid physical, emotional, psychological, and social development. During these formative years, boys often face significant pressure to fit in with their peers, influencing how they make decisions, express themselves, and shape their identities.

Peer pressure can affect many aspects of adolescent life—from everyday choices and friendships to risk-taking behaviors such as smoking. Without strong guidance and positive role models, young people may struggle to make decisions that reflect their own values and aspirations.

Recognizing these challenges, Jalin Foundation developed RAW School to help schools become more than places of academic learning. The program encourages schools to become supportive environments where adolescent boys can build confidence, develop healthy coping skills, and grow with the support of trusted adults.

Bringing Schools, Parents, and Experts Together

As the official kick-off event, RAW Talk was supported by the South Jakarta Administrative City Education Office (Regions I and II). The event welcomed 20 teachers from 10 senior high schools, along with 24 parents and students, who participated in interactive discussions about the realities facing adolescent boys today.

More than simply providing information, RAW Talk created a space for meaningful conversations between teachers, parents, and psychology practitioners. Participants explored how schools and families can work together to become positive support systems that encourage adolescents to seek help, communicate openly, and build resilience.

The event also introduced participants to the implementation of RAW School, which will gradually be rolled out in participating schools. Feedback gathered during the discussions will help refine and strengthen the program as it expands.

Understanding Without Judging

Centered on the theme “Understanding Without Judging,” RAW Talk featured two experienced psychologists who shared practical insights into adolescent development.

Family psychologist Leony Desliawati, who has extensive experience working with students in school settings, discussed the emotional and developmental challenges commonly experienced by adolescent boys. She emphasized the importance of understanding young people’s behavior before making assumptions or judgments.

Educational counselor and practicing psychologist Hernilen highlighted the importance of open communication among adolescents, families, and schools. She encouraged participants to create relationships built on trust so that young people feel safe discussing the challenges they face.

Together, the speakers reminded participants that adolescent behavior is rarely shaped by a single factor. Identity formation, the desire to belong, family dynamics, and social expectations all interact to influence how young people respond to the world around them.

Addressing the Realities of Peer Pressure

Over the course of three hours, participants explored three key topics that are closely connected to adolescent boys’ everyday experiences.

The first session examined how peer pressure affects boys aged 12–19, often influencing their choices as they seek acceptance within their social circles.

The second session focused on smoking initiation, exploring how curiosity, peer influence, and the perception that smoking represents maturity or confidence can contribute to adolescents experimenting with cigarettes.

The final session equipped teachers and parents with practical strategies for supporting young people, including building open communication, strengthening trust, and providing consistent emotional support. These approaches can help adolescents feel more comfortable seeking guidance when they encounter difficult situations.

Throughout the event, participants actively shared their own experiences, exchanged ideas, and discussed practical approaches that can be applied both in schools and at home.

Building a Stronger Support System for Adolescent Boys

RAW Talk marks the first step in implementing RAW School across Jakarta through collaboration with local Education Offices. As the initiative grows, Jalin Foundation hopes more schools will join the program and contribute to creating safer, more supportive learning environments for adolescent boys.

Beyond academic success, RAW School places equal emphasis on character development, mental well-being, healthy decision-making, and resilience in the face of social pressure.

By bringing together teachers, parents, schools, and communities, Jalin Foundation believes adolescent boys can develop the confidence, skills, and support networks they need to make responsible choices and avoid risky behaviors.

Through RAW School, Jalin Foundation is investing in something that extends far beyond education—it is helping build a generation of young men who are healthier, more resilient, and better prepared to shape a positive future for themselves and their communities.