Alisya (18), a regional champion runner with a hearing impairment, is a graduate of a Special School (SLB) in West Java. In 2024, she and her mother participated in the entrepreneurship assistance wing of the Skills to Succeed Program, where they successfully launched a spice-based powdered drink business. This initiative is a continuation of the skills training Alisya had previously completed.
Skills to Succeed is a job-readiness program implemented by Save the Children and IBU Foundation, with main funding from Accenture. A key focus is strengthening the soft skills of adolescents with disabilities and their parents through social-emotional training, computer literacy, and business mentoring.
Unlocking Entrepreneurial Opportunities
The social-emotional training gave Alisya a boost in confidence and a clearer vision for her future. Previously, her interactions were largely limited to peers with similar challenges. Now, she is more confident in pursuing her dream of becoming an entrepreneur while continuing her education at the university level.
When the entrepreneurship mentoring program opened, Alisya’s school recommended her and her parents. They joined a cohort of other families from various special schools.
Wati (48), Alisya’s mother, shared that they chose to produce ginger and turmeric powder drinks, inspired by a grandmother’s recipe and Alisya’s passion for the food and beverage industry. This startup is also an opportunity for Wati to pass down family heritage and knowledge to her daughter.
From Mentorship to Capital Support
During the business guidance phase, Wati and Alisya were mentored by a team from the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) Cimahi City. They learned about production strategies, pricing, promotion, and marketing.
Armed with her newfound computer skills, Alisya and her mother prepared a business proposal. Their plan was accepted by the Skills to Succeed team and linked to funding through BESTARI, one of Save the Children’s domestic programs. Ultimately, Alisya and Wati secured the capital needed to purchase equipment and production materials.
The production of the ginger and turmeric powder takes place at home, where they share roles. This setup allows Alisya to learn independence and entrepreneurship in a supportive environment. Wati has also opened a small stall in front of their house to sell their products and accept local orders.
Independent Learning and Preparing for the Future
Though their business is still in its early stages, Alisya’s journey proves that teenagers with disabilities can be empowered through proper training. While production is currently limited, they are gaining invaluable experience in entrepreneurship.
“Starting this business is very helpful for Alisya. She is learning how to manage finances, capital, sales, and profits even on a small scale. This is a great balance to her athletic training,” said Wati.
Alisya shared her excitement through sign language, interpreted by her mother. “I am gaining so many new experiences,” she said. At home, Wati often acts as a bridge between Alisya and those who do not understand sign language.
Wati hopes their business will grow so that Alisya can thrive independently.
“My hope is for Alisya to be self-reliant. Parents won’t be around forever, so she must be able to stand on her own, at least for herself,” said Wati.
