ROW 4 R.O.L.E.

ROW 4 R.O.L.E. 2025: A Bigger Row Toward Empowerment and Change

Waves of excitement and purpose swept through the Bali coastline as ROW 4 R.O.L.E. returned for its 2025 edition, bringing together 104 passionate rowers and supporters for a 13+ km sea race from Sanur to Nusa Dua. Organized by the R.O.L.E. Foundation in partnership with Right Reasons Funding, the event once again proved the power of sport and community in driving social change.

Thanks to the incredible energy and generosity of participants, donors, and sponsors, the event raised an outstanding IDR 939,987,178 to benefit the Bali WISE Educational and Empowerment Program. These funds will support the training of 100 marginalized young Indonesian women, equipping them with the professional and digital skills they need to break out of poverty and into sustainable careers in hospitality and beyond.

This year’s success would not have been possible without the heartfelt support of our lead sponsors: Hyatt Corporation, Samudera Indonesia, Lotus Hotels and Resorts, and Nuanu Social Fund. Their commitment continues to fuel lasting impact in the lives of women across Indonesia.

The event kicked off on April 11, 2025, with a vibrant pre-race gathering: from safety briefings to a gift pack filled with essentials like waterproof dry bags (courtesy of Azurbali), Bali-made sustainable products, snacks, and more. The evening wrapped with a sunset BBQ at Hyatt Regency Sanur, fueling excitement for the big race day.

As the sun rose on April 12, rowers lined up on the sands of Sanur, ready for the journey. With power snacks, LABORÉ sunscreen, and high spirits, they launched their canoes toward Grand Hyatt Nusa Dua, competing in the Single, Double, and XL divisions.

As rowers approached the finish line, they were greeted by their families, friends, and the Bali WISE students—the young women whose futures are being transformed by this initiative. Their energy lit up the beach and underscored why this movement matters.

The celebrations continued with an award ceremony, where students performed the moving Bali WISE anthem, “I Know the Longer Way,” written by Karl Gart, founder of Women of Asia. Many were left in tears, deeply touched by the hope and strength radiating from the performance.

The morning wrapped with a festive brunch at Grand Hyatt Nusa Dua, a rock band performance, and the announcement of the event’s top fundraisers.

Since its inception, ROW 4 R.O.L.E. has made waves of real change. In previous years:

• 2022: 79 rowers raised IDR 900 million
• 2023: 140 rowers raised IDR 1.060 billion
• 2024: 90 rowers raised IDR 1.008 billion

These funds have helped educate 300 women and counting.

In 2025, the tradition continues. Through the generous support of sponsors and community members, this year’s total ensures that 100 more young women will gain access to life-changing education and opportunity.

ROW 4 R.O.L.E. isn’t just a thrilling water race—it’s a rallying cry for equality and education. Together, we are building a future where every woman has a chance to rise, and every row moves us closer to that vision.

Once again thank you to all sponsors, rowers, and community members, for making this event a success. We look forward to ROW FOR R.O.L.E. 2026. We’ll see you there!

About R.O.L.E. Foundation:

Established in 2007 by Mike O’Leary, the R.O.L.E. Foundation operates the Bali WISE Program, empowering marginalized young Indonesian women through hospitality training and job placement. Additionally, the foundation runs the ZeroWaste Center, focusing on sustainable waste management and environmental education.

Together, we can build a better future for all. Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our cause.