Nadine Chandrawinata

NADINE CHANDRAWINATA appears at first to be soft and sweet, even a bit child-like. However, the 24-year-old’s winsome ways belie a tough center, for she had to face a lot, including some pretty sustained nastiness, when she was Miss Indonesia. She does not choose to dwell on the past, and is moving forward with a WWF-endorsed coffee-table book highlighting Indonesia’s marine treasures. “I want to protect the sea, and with this book maybe I can get other people to do the same,” says the daughter of a German mother and Indonesian father. “The other thing for me is that I’m an Indonesian, I worked with an Indonesian designer and team for something about Indonesia.”

The Sea

Two-thirds of the world is water. It’s another beautiful world that we need to protect. For me, the sea at night creates a feeling of calm and honesty, under the stars and with the sound of the waves. I’m a marine maniac!

Diving

I’ve learned to overcome problems underwater, and it’s a great form of exercise. It also takes a lot of discipline. I feel so graceful in the sea.

Star cushion

Whenever I go traveling, I always bring this cushion with me. Blue is my favorite color, it makes me feel at peace. I love stars; they give hope.

Clown fish necklace

I like “Nemo”, because he is always on guard and aware of his surroundings, and so am I. He is aware of who he is, which is also what I am trying to be. I got this in Singapore, it’s my favorite accessory and I can wear it with anything.

Cappuccino

It’s bittersweet, kind of like the stages of life. Sometimes I feel disappointed or face a challenge, but the sweet part is being able to overcome it.

Traveling

I see the beauty of the world from my travels; it’s the most valuable knowledge. When we see the differences in cultures, we gain a better understanding of them. Every person can choose. In my family, I’ve taken the positive side of each of my parent’s background.

Nico

I’m a dog lover, and Nico is a golden retriever, a really friendly type of dog. He’s friendly with everyone, and makes everyone smile. I feel he really is man’s best friend.

Snowball globe

+Bruce Emond

Photos: Adi Wahono

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