Small Steps with Big Impact: Ibu Dewi, a Modern-Day Kartini Spreading Benefits for the Environment

The spirit of Kartini lives on today in the simple steps of a woman who continues to strive in all conditions, including limitations. Modern 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 Ibu Dewi Priyanti, a woman from Solo who migrated to Jakarta to change her fate. Starting from zero as a keeper of a small roadside stall, she went through her days with full conviction that she always expressed in every prayer. In the midst of her journey, she met a “big sister in white-blue uniform” who turned out to come from Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM), a state-owned financial institution focused on prospering underprivileged communities through ultra-micro enterprises. Armed with her cooking skills, Ibu Dewi slowly built her business from a simple stall. She began adding menu variations, serving customers with all her heart, and continuously learning from experience. Opportunities for growth opened up further when she joined PNM Mekaar. From an initial financing of Rp 2 million, which has now grown to Rp 10 million, her business shows significant progress. However, more than that, her courage and consistency are the main keys in that journey. Not only focused on her business, Ibu Dewi is active as the Chair of the Waste Bank Unit (BSU) Kembangs, proving that women’s roles are also important in bringing social change. She felt deep emotion when her business journey slowly developed, especially when she was trusted to become the chair of the Waste Bank Group. For her, not only her business grew, but also the opportunity to provide benefits for the environment and others. From the simple steps she started long ago, now she sees that her struggle is not only beneficial for her family but also brings change to those around her. According to PNM’s Corporate Secretary, Dodot Patria Ary, women’s empowerment is one of PNM’s main focuses in encouraging community economic independence. The spirit of Kartini today is felt in journeys like the one undertaken by Ibu Dewi, when women dare to step forward, learn, and support each other. What grows, he said, is not only her business but also her self-confidence and courage to make an impact on those around her. “We see that every consistent small step can bring women closer to independence and a broader role in society,” said Dodot in a statement on Monday (13/4/2026). Through various empowerment programmes run, PNM is optimistic about continuing to present more resilient women like Ibu Dewi. Thus, more underprivileged women who receive access to financing, mentoring, and training provided can open more opportunities for them to be economically independent, while becoming agents of change that bring positive impacts to their families and surrounding environment.