ROW FOR R.O.L.E. 5

90 Rowers, 13 Kilometers, 100 New Futures: The Success of ROW FOR R.O.L.E. 5

An inspiring display of athletic endurance and community solidarity took place along the Bali coastline this past weekend as ROW FOR R.O.L.E. 5 successfully completed its 2026 edition. Organized by the R.O.L.E. Foundation in partnership with Right Reasons Funding, the event saw 90 dedicated rowers navigate a challenging 13+ km course from Sanur to Nusa Dua to champion the cause of gender equality and education.

The 2026 event reached an extraordinary fundraising milestone, securing IDR 874,307,218 in donations. These critical funds are directly earmarked for the Bali WISE Educational and Empowerment Program, providing 100 marginalized young women with a comprehensive scholarship. The curriculum covering hospitality, digital literacy, and professional life skills, is designed to dismantle the cycle of poverty and launch these women into sustainable, high-growth careers.

This year’s achievement was anchored by the unwavering support of lead sponsors: Hyatt Corporation, Azurbali, and Abyss Ocean World. Their commitment ensures that the foundation can continue its mission of transforming lives through specialized training.

The event festivities began on April 24, 2026, with a pre-race briefing and the distribution of participant kits. Rowers received essential gear, including waterproof dry bags provided by Azurbali and an array of eco-friendly Bali-made products and refreshments.

At sunrise on April 25, the shoreline of Sanur was filled with energy as competitors in the Single, Double, and XL divisions prepared for launch. Armed with Carasun sunscreen and high spirits, the fleet set off toward the Grand Hyatt Nusa Dua.

As the rowers reached the finish line, they were met with a powerful reminder of their efforts: the Bali WISE students themselves. The students, whose futures are the direct beneficiaries of this race, cheered on the participants in a moving display of gratitude.

The post-race celebration featured a heartfelt performance of the Bali WISE anthem, “I Know the Longer Way,” written by Women of Asia founder Karl Gart. The performance left many in attendance moved to tears, underscoring the deep human impact of the program. The day concluded at the Grand Hyatt Nusa Dua with a festive brunch, live music from Blues Mates, a local rock band, and the recognition of the event’s top individual fundraisers.

A Growing Legacy of Impact

Since its inception, ROW FOR R.O.L.E. has become a cornerstone of Bali’s charity calendar, consistently scaling its impact:

• 2022: 79 rowers raised IDR 900 Million
• 2023: 140 rowers raised IDR 1.060 Billion
• 2024: 90 rowers raised IDR 1.008 Billion
• 2025: 104 rowers raised IDR 900 Million

To date, these efforts have funded the education of over 400 women. The 2026 total ensures that another 100 women will join their ranks, gaining the tools to build a better life for themselves and their families.

R.O.L.E. Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to every sponsor, rower, and volunteer who contributed to this success. Preparations are already underway for ROW FOR R.O.L.E. 2027.

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.