Every great journey begins with a first step—and sometimes, that step comes with a little fear. For Eleanor G. Saputra of IPEKA INTEGRATED Christian School, learning to ice skate meant facing the possibility of falling, getting back up, and finding the courage to try again. Today, she has reached a remarkable milestone as the youngest skater competing at the Indonesia Ice Skating Open (IISO) 2026.

Eleanor’s journey was not built in a single moment. Every practice brought something new to learn, from exciting breakthroughs to challenging days that tested her patience and determination. Each time she stepped onto the ice, she had another opportunity to improve, overcome uncertainty, and discover what she was capable of achieving.

Over time, the ice became more than a place to practice skating. It became a space where Eleanor could build confidence, experience joy, and learn to embrace challenges. Falling was no longer simply something to fear; it became part of the process of learning. With every attempt, she grew more comfortable taking risks and moving forward, even when progress did not come easily.

Her achievement at IISO 2026 is a meaningful milestone, but the journey behind it carries an equally important lesson. Growth often happens through small, consistent efforts that may not seem significant at first. It takes perseverance to keep practicing, courage to face setbacks, and patience to recognize progress along the way.

Eleanor’s journey has also been supported by her parents and teachers, whose encouragement has helped her continue moving forward. Their support reminds us that behind a young learner’s growth is often a community that believes in their potential. Through it all, Eleanor recognizes God’s grace as part of her journey, giving meaning to every step she takes.

As a Christian school, IPEKA INTEGRATED Christian School values the development of students beyond academic achievement. Every child has unique interests and abilities to explore, and experiences like Eleanor’s show how pursuing a passion can also nurture resilience, confidence, discipline, and a willingness to learn.

Being the youngest skater at IISO 2026 is an accomplishment worth celebrating. Yet perhaps the most meaningful part of Eleanor’s story is not simply how far she has come, but how much she has grown along the way.

Her journey is a reminder that children do not need to have everything figured out from the beginning. They need opportunities to explore, encouragement to keep trying, and the courage to take the next step.

Because sometimes, the greatest achievement is discovering that we are braver than we once believed.