Meeting Ms. Dian Ratna Mahita: Balancing Leadership, Career, and Studies in the UK

Today, I had one of those moments that I know I’ll look back on years from now – the chance to sit down and record a podcast session with Ms. Dian Ratna Mahita, or as many of us fondly call her, Mbak Ita.

She isn’t just any guest. Mbak Ita is currently pursuing her Master’s in Marketing and Strategy at Warwick University, while also serving as the President of the Indonesian Student Association in the UK (PPI UK) – a role that oversees and connects Indonesian students across the entire country. Beyond that, she has an impressive career, having worked at Telkomsel, Indonesia’s leading telecommunications provider, for almost eight years. What’s even more inspiring is that she’s doing all this on a fully funded scholarship from the very company she’s been loyal to throughout her professional journey.

Juggling Work, Studies, and Leadership

During our conversation, one of the things that struck me most was how gracefully she balances multiple responsibilities. Studying abroad alone can be overwhelming, but adding leadership duties and a demanding academic schedule on top of that? It takes grit, discipline, and heart.

When I asked her about burnout – something I think many of us international students silently struggle with – she didn’t shy away from admitting that it happens. What mattered, she said, is recognising when we need to step back and recharge. That way, when we return to our goals, we can tackle them with renewed energy rather than running on empty.

Her Journey and What Inspires Her

We also delved into her personal story – from childhood memories to the role her family played in shaping who she is today. What I found beautiful was how she draws strength from her roots, using her upbringing and values as her compass even when navigating life abroad.

Her vibrant energy during the podcast made the session feel less like an interview and more like a heartfelt conversation between friends. She reminded me of why communities like PPI are so important – they give us a sense of belonging thousands of miles away from home.

Tips for Earning a Fully Funded Scholarship

One of the most valuable parts of our discussion was her practical tips for securing scholarships to study in the UK. According to her, preparation is key:

• Start early – know the requirements and timelines ahead of time.

• Show willingness to learn – companies and sponsors look for people who are eager to grow, not just academically but personally.

• Be clear about your goals – demonstrate how your studies will contribute not just to yourself but to your community or industry back home.

Hearing these tips from someone who has walked the path herself made them feel incredibly relatable and achievable.

A Quote That Stuck With Me

At the end of the session, Mbak Ita shared a quote by Rumi that really resonated with me:

“Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world.
Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.”

She explained how this mindset shift helped her in leadership – understanding that while we can’t control how others act, we can control how we respond. Change starts within us, with motivation and tenacity, and that’s something I’ve been reflecting on ever since.

What’s Next

We’ll be releasing the full podcast on Apasih Media’s YouTube Channel, split into three episodes. If you’re an Indonesian student, an aspiring scholar, or someone curious about studying and leading abroad, you won’t want to miss it.

This conversation with Mbak Ita reminded me why we started this podcast in the first place – to share real stories, lessons, and inspiration from Indonesians making their mark overseas. I hope her journey inspires you as much as it inspired me.