As the academic year turned, amidst the heavy traffic of freshmen, among the hustle and bustle of August, Putra-Putri Fakultas Ilmu Budaya Universitas Padjadjaran had begun preparing to select its next Putra and Putri. Once again, this pageant-styled annual event was organized to select students who best represent the values of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences through intellect, charisma, cultural awareness, and advocacy. Each study program nominated its best candidates to compete in various segments that showcase their brilliance, eloquence, posture, and artistic abilities. This year, the English Studies Program proudly appointed Azizan Naraya Saka and Stephanie Nathalia Kurniawan as candidates for Putra and Putri of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences.
“Saka and I were talking about activities in the faculty, including PPF (Putra-Putri Fakultas). We joked about how fun it would be to come forward as candidates from the English Studies Program. Who would have thought that we’d actually compete in the event?” said Stephanie in an interview.
At first, they did not think that they would be among the contestants, with Saka noting that he was the one scouting for candidates from the English Studies Program, but none accepted the challenge.
“I’m a part of the Academic & General Competence Development department in Gelanggang Mahasiswa Sastra Inggris (Gemasi), and I was actually responsible for scouting PPF candidates from the English Studies Program. However, no one was willing to come forward, so Stephanie and I ended up being the candidates instead,” said Saka in an interview.
Despite the sudden decision for them to represent the English Studies Program in front of a large audience, they were not at all shocked. Prior to the event, they had gathered experience in public performance with Stephanie acting in theatre and film, and Saka winning public speaking competitions such as the 2025 Brawijaya English Tournament and the 24th ALSA English Challenge. However, they also noted that they were nervous since it was their first time competing in a pageant such as Putra-Putri Fakultas.
Throughout the competition, Saka and Stephanie demonstrated exceptional skill and confidence, impressing the judges and audience alike with their well-prepared advocacy speeches and talent performances. Stephanie delivered an advocacy speech on sexual violence prevention, providing awareness for students on preventing and eliminating sexual violence on campus. Furthermore, Saka delivered an advocacy speech on sexual education, promoting healthy attitudes and behaviors as well as informing students to make better choices regarding their sexual well-being.
On 13th September 2025, at the grand final, Stephanie was crowned Putri of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences 2025, a well deserved recognition of her grace, intellect, and dedication. Moreover, Saka was crowned Putra Berbakat (Most Talented Student) of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences 2025, a testament to his remarkable talent performance. Stephanie stated that she did not expect to win and that she prayed before the grand final.
“Whatever happens, know that I am very grateful to have reached this far,” said Stephanie in her prayer.
Similarly, Saka did not think that he would receive the title of Putra Berbakat. He stated that the event took place in the most hectic months of his life. He had to balance between the competition, his organizational life, and his work as a teacher. Now, knowing that he had achieved the title, he knew that all of the stress had paid off.
“It was worth it,” said Saka in an interview.
Originally, Saka and Stephanie did not plan to compete and did not expect to win. However, both candidates still gave their best performances and expressed their dedication to represent the English Studies Program. They also expressed their utmost gratitude for the people who have helped and supported them along the way, including friends and lecturers.
Currently, Stephanie is representing the Faculty of Cultural Sciences in Putra-Putri Padjadjaran. She plans on presenting her best and winning the campus-wide competition with the help and support of her friends and lecturers.
“During PPF, I often told my friends that it is okay for me to lose, but not anymore. I realized that my saying that I’m fine to lose completely negates the support I receive from my friends and lecturers. Therefore, as of now, I will not let pessimistic thoughts reign over me,” said Stephanie in an interview.
She also received warm support from her partner in crime, Saka, cheering for her all the way.
“Stephanie, I want you to know that we, your friends at the English Studies Program and the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, are extremely proud of you. We will always support you no matter what,” said Saka in an interview.
The English Studies Program extends its warmest congratulations to Saka and Stephanie for their well-deserved achievements. Their dedication and excellence continue to inspire fellow students to pursue growth both within and beyond the faculty. Furthermore, the English Studies Program gives its strongest support for Stephanie in her endeavor to be Putri Padjadjaran 2025. We wish all the best luck for Stephanie in the grand final of Putra-Putri Padjadjaran taking place in Grha Sanusi Hardjadinata, Dipati Ukur Campus, on Sunday, 9th November, 2025.
