Amid economic and social challenges, women heads of households in Purwakarta, West Java, have found strength through the Paradigta Academy. This empowerment program, initiated by the Women-Headed Family Empowerment (PEKKA) and supported by the Australia-Indonesia Partnership Towards an Inclusive Society (INKLUSI) program, has brought positive change to their lives. With livelihoods and three dedicated mentors, these women are taking steps toward economic independence, improving their livelihoods, and contributing more to their communities.
The Paradigta Academy is not just a training program but an empowerment platform designed specifically to help women heads of households overcome poverty and build sustainable businesses. The program’s success lies not only in the enthusiasm of its participants, but also in the crucial role of the mentors, who provide knowledge and skills and encourage participants to grow and succeed.
Three Champions Behind Paradigta Academy Purwakarta
In Purwakarta, a new work area for PEKKA supported through INKLUSI program in 2023, three mentors have become drivers of change: Astini, Ovi Rosidah and Lela Rosilawati. These women, who were once participants of the Paradigta Academy, faced similar challenges to those they now mentor. As mentors, they draw from their own experiences to help the participants unlock their potential.
Astini, who began her journey at the Paradigta Academy in Karawang in 2017, is now known for her dedication to motivating participants to benefit their communities.
“Joining PEKKA has provided me with valuable knowledge and experiences,” she shared.
“I’m proud to share what I’ve learned and to help others.”
Astini hopes that through the Paradigta Academy, more women will achieve economic independence.
Lela Rosilawati has been with PEKKA since 2014 and became a mentor after undergoing various training at the Paradigta Academy. She guides participants to discover their potential and build confidence.
“Participants who once lacked confidence are now forming business groups and are enthusiastic about their future development,” Lela remarked.
Ovi Rosidah joined PEKKA in 2013 and shared a similar approach. For her, being a mentor is not just about sharing knowledge but also about building strong relationships with participants.
“Our role as mentors is to help participants grow, both personally and professionally, so they can positively impact their communities,” she said.
This program has had a significant impact on participants like Nina Triana and Ika Sulastri. Before attending the entrepreneurship class at Paradigta Academy, Nina ran a small home-based catering business. With the guidance of mentors, her confidence grew and she is now able to manage her business more systematically and is ready to expand.
“The mentors explained everything in simple terms and were always supportive. This gave me the confidence I needed,” Nina shared.
Ika Sulastri, a former migrant worker who now runs a small cracker business, also experienced a transformation. With the mentors’ guidance, Ika learned how to package her products more attractively and use social media platforms like WhatsApp to expand her market.
“Paradigta Academy taught me effective and organised ways to sell. Now, I’m more confident that success in business depends on our own efforts,” Ika explained.
Challenges, Support and Hopes
Astini, Ovi and Lela’s journeys as mentors have not been without challenges. They revealed that one of the biggest obstacles was finding participants in new areas like Purwakarta. Initially, outreach efforts in five villages were unsuccessful as there was little interest in joining. However, thanks to their persistence and the support of the Purwakarta Office for Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection (DP3A), they were able to open the first class in Cidahu Village. The program has now expanded to other villages.
Additionally, the distance between Karawang and Purwakarta posed another challenge. Ovi mentioned that being a mentor is a significant responsibility, including travelling long distances to support participants. However, the support from local governments and DP3A Purwakarta provided additional motivation.
“We are grateful for the continued support from the sub-district and DP3A Purwakarta for our activities,” said Lela.
The name ‘Paradigta’ is derived from Old Javanese and means a woman who stands strong and firm. This meaning aptly reflects the spirit of women heads of households who, despite facing various life challenges, remain steadfast and resilient in difficult situations. The three mentors hope that the Paradigta Academy will continue to grow and reach more women across Indonesia.
With the support of INKLUSI, the Paradigta Academy offers new hope for women heads of households to break free from economic and social limitations. This program not only transforms individuals but also creates a more inclusive, dignified community with a brighter future.
“Our hope is that the Paradigta Academy will produce many women changemakers, who will create positive impacts for themselves, their families and their communities,” Astini concluded optimistically.
