Dewi Priyanti, the PNM Kartini Bringing Real Change to Her Community

The spirit of Kartini today lives on in the simple steps of a woman who continues to strive in all conditions, including limitations. Today’s women not only dare to dream but also take concrete actions to improve their lives, those of their children, and their families.

This real story is embodied by Dewi Priyanti, a woman from Solo who migrated to Jakarta to change her fate. Armed with cooking skills, Dewi slowly built her business from a simple stall. She began adding menu variations, serving customers wholeheartedly, and continuously learning from experience.

Opportunities for growth opened up further when she met an Account Officer from Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) and became part of the PNM Mekaar programme. From an initial financing of IDR 2 million, which has now grown to IDR 10 million, her business has shown significant progress.

However, more than that, her courage and consistency were the main keys in that journey. Not only focused on her business, Dewi is also active as Chair of the Waste Bank Unit (BSU) Kembang, proving that women’s roles are important in bringing social change.

For her, it is not only her business that has grown, but also the opportunity to benefit the environment and others. From the simple steps she started with in the past, she now sees that her struggles benefit not only her family but also bring change to those around her.

Observing Dewi’s story, PNM’s Company Secretary, Dodot Patria Ary, stated that women’s empowerment is one of PNM’s main focuses in promoting community economic independence.

“The spirit of Kartini today is felt in journeys like that of Mrs Dewi, when women dare to step forward, learn, and support each other. What grows is not only their businesses, but also their self-confidence and courage to make an impact on their surroundings,” he said. “We see that every consistent small step can bring women closer to independence and a broader role in society.”

Through various empowerment programmes implemented, PNM is optimistic about continuing to produce more resilient women like Dewi. Thus, more underprivileged women who receive access to financing, guidance, and training can open up more opportunities for them to be economically independent, while becoming agents of change that bring positive impacts to their families and surrounding environment.