Kompasiana writers gathered in Lembang for a special journey called "Tracing the Steps of Resilient Women, Amartha Partners."

The event allowed participants to explore stories of women MSME entrepreneurs empowered through Amartha's impact funding (18/7/2025).

This initiative connected literary enthusiasts directly with the realities of rural women business owners, showing how targeted financing can change lives.

Lemon Juice Business of Lina Herlianti: From Home Production to Thousands of Bottles

The first visit was to Kampung Pojok Girang, Desa Cikahuripan, where Lina Herlianti has run a lemon juice business since 2016.

After joining Amartha in 2024, her monthly production grew to 3,000 bottles, generating up to IDR 15 million in revenue. Her products reach Bandung, Indramayu, Cirebon, Jakarta, and Bekasi, including distribution through loyal resellers.

“Demand increased, and I can meet it because I have better production tools. I’m also able to hire more people,” said Lina with a proud smile.

Writers had the opportunity to ask questions and try making lemon ice drinks on-site.

Sherly Novita’s Crochet Workshop: Empowerment Through Handmade Crafts

Next, the group visited Kampung Babakan Cikole to meet Sherly Novita, a crochet artisan producing bags and wallets since 2010.

Since partnering with Amartha in 2024, she has used the funds to purchase quality materials and better tools.

Along with two family members, Sherly now produces 250 crochet souvenirs monthly, supplying areas like Ciater and tourist destinations such as The Castello.

“My production used to be limited. Now it’s larger and the quality has improved,” Sherly shared, showing her colorful crochet works.

Sherly mentioned challenges with sourcing materials and distribution. The Amartha funding helped her stock supplies in advance and speed up production.

She hopes to expand online sales and participate in more bazaars to widen product recognition and create jobs.

Impact Investment Supporting Local Growth

These stories demonstrate that safe and targeted investments can create meaningful change.

Amartha enables public contributions to support MSMEs led by women like Lina and Sherly, fostering financial independence and local economic growth.

Amartha’s commitment is built on three pillars:

• Amartha Madani – supporting social resilience in communities
• Amartha Bestari – promoting literacy and education
• Amartha Lestari – focusing on environmental sustainability

These pillars ensure that investments benefit entrepreneurs, the environment, and local society.

The field visit inspired Kompasiana writers to share positive rural stories and highlight the broader impact of supporting women entrepreneurs.

Behind every handcrafted bag and bottle of lemon juice is hard work, dreams, and determination.

PHOTO: AMARTHA

This article was created with AI assistance.