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Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort Helps Open a New School in Southwest Sumba

Less than a year after a charity evening brought together partners from across Indonesia, a shared act of generosity has become a permanent learning space for children in Tambolaka.

A new chapter has opened for children in Southwest Sumba following the inauguration of a school built through a collaboration between Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort and Bali Life Foundation.

Officially opened on 15 July 2026, the school now provides children in the Tambolaka community with a safe place to learn, grow, and imagine wider possibilities for their future. The inauguration marked the completion of a project that began with a simple belief: that one evening of giving could create an impact lasting far beyond the event itself.

The ceremony was officiated by the Regent of Southwest Sumba, Ratu Ngadu Bonu Wulla, and attended by local community leaders, teachers, students, residents, and representatives from both partner organizations. Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort was represented by General Manager Jean-Pierre Joncas, Director of People & Culture Nia Edward, and Senior Director of Marketing Communications & PR Aulianty Fellina.

Standing here today is incredibly humbling,” said Joncas. “Only a few months ago, we gathered on this very site for the groundbreaking ceremony. Today, we are opening the doors to a school that will shape the future of countless children.”

He added that the project reflects Sofitel’s belief that luxury should be measured not only through exceptional guest experiences, but also through the positive legacy a hotel leaves within the communities around it.

The school was funded through Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort’s inaugural charity gala, An Evening of Elegance & Empathy, held on 14 November 2025. The event gathered hospitality leaders, corporate partners, media, philanthropists, and supporters, raising IDR 500,000,000, approximately USD 30,000. Every rupiah raised was directed toward Bali Life Foundation’s work in education and community empowerment.

For Bali Life Foundation, the new school represents far more than a physical building. It is a place where children can discover their abilities, pursue education with confidence, and build the foundations of a brighter future.

The partnership is also set to continue. Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort will host the second edition of its annual charity gala, An Evening of Purpose & Possibility, on 11 December 2026. Once again held in collaboration with Bali Life Foundation, the event will bring together the hospitality community, corporate leaders, and generous supporters to help create new opportunities for children and families across Indonesia.

What began as an elegant evening in Bali now stands as a lasting symbol of collective action in Sumba, demonstrating how hospitality, philanthropy, and community partnership can turn generosity into meaningful change.

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