Humble Beginnings in Yapen
Isaschar Mambrasar began offering free lessons at his home on Yapen Island, driven by concern over Papua's education gap.
In 2006, Isaschar Mambrasar began offering free lessons at his home on Yapen Island, moved by deep concern over Papua's education gap. Neighbors sent their children, and soon word spread across the island.
That grassroots effort grew into Yayasan Kitong Bisa Indonesia — a foundation built on the belief that Papuan youth, when given opportunity and character formation, will pioneer change in their own communities.
The name Kitong Bisa ("We Can") carries a special story. During Barack Obama's second presidential campaign in 2012, Isaschar Mambrasar reflected on the power of the slogan Yes, We Can. He remarked to his kids "Ko lihat laki-laki kulit hitam satu itu de bisa jadi presiden Amerika Serikat, itu hebat" ("You see that Black man, he can become President of the United States — that is remarkable"). From that moment, the phrase Kitong Bisa was born — a local affirmation of possibility, resilience, and shared determination, echoing the spirit of Obama's campaign while rooting it in Papuan identity.
Thus, Kitong Bisa is more than a name. It is a declaration: "We Can"
Education is not charity — it is investment in Papuan leaders who will shape our future.
