Momento is a student-led start-up that aims to document stories capturing the essence of the loved one with dementia through key moments. This process is based on reminiscence therapy, which entails those with dementia recalling their memories to a Momento volunteer in a casual and comfortable setting, to help them regain their sense of identity and relay important memories.

Jocelyn Koswara, Founder

I started Momento in May of 2025 through Enactus’ Research and Development program. I was inspired by my experience with my grandmother who has dementia. Because she lives in Indonesia, every time I visited her, I noticed that with many of her memories faded, I struggled to maintain my relationship with her. I felt this quiet frustration in trying to connect with her beyond the stories and I resonated with families trying to find the patience and understanding with navigating dementia.

In the search for ways to prevent or slow the progression of dementia, I discovered Reminiscence Therapy. Through Reminiscence Therapy, people use storytelling as a way to stimulate conversations, improve mood, and preserve their sense of identity. This became the seed for Momento.

I knew that during my conversations with my grandmother, certain stories – especially from her childhood – remained so vivid. Through these stories, there was a brighter and a more youthful part of herself that she was able to articulate, something that I might not have otherwise seen.

This was when I had the idea to create Momento, a tribute and a legacy to capture our loved ones’ stories and thoughts combining Reminiscence Therapy and art. Because I know that my grandmother’s identity lies in the realms of stories only she can tell. Instead of being frustrated about what she can no longer remember, I want to celebrate what she still holds.

I want Momento to provide friendship and companionship to those struggling with the same thing. I want volunteers at Momento to feel deeply connected with your loved ones and convey the stories that make them whole. I hope that through this project, families can preserve the voices and moments that define the people they care about most.