Ang Hermana

Artisan Organization: Ang Hermana

Country: Bali & Java

"I am Anggraini Hermana. I was born in 1987 in Yogyakarta, a city known for its friendly locals and many artisan centers in every corner of the city. Yogyakarta is also famous as a student city. Many immigrants come to Jogja to continue their studies. I was born into a family that loves all things authentic and essential. It doesn't have to be expensive and luxurious, but more focused on function and durability. Since childhood, my parents have been working with leather products. I still remember in the 90s when I was about 5 years old, there was a night market, namely Pasar Malam Sekaten. My father and mother always invited me to visit the event and hunt for leather products such as shoes, bags and wallets.

"I am a graduate of Fashion Engineering Education because since childhood I have dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. However, after graduating from college, I first designed and produced leather boots. Through the Yogyakarta City Government Service, I had the opportunity to study at the Indonesian Shoe Industry Development Center in East Java. I also learned to develop other leather products. Now I have several certifications of competency skills in my business. And I am also a finalist in the 7th ASEAN Traditional Textile Symposium competition in the 'Bag and Purse' category.

"I am married and have one son. My husband was previously an entrepreneur in the service sector. However, since the COVID-19 pandemic, his business has slumped and he is forced to try another type of business. In addition, he has also helped a lot in my business in the leather craft sector.

"In my life, I experienced a downturn when I applied for a loan without a well-measured and well-structured business plan. Then the business went bankrupt and I had to keep paying the installments every month. This debt has always haunted me. Although it has not been fully paid off, I am grateful that I was able to go through all of this and survive thanks to God's help. The comments of people around me sometimes discourage me. But one keyword, 'consistency', and in accordance with God's word I kept trying to be productive. A short time ago I met Novica through a friend; that has increased my hope.

"I have applied ‘zero waste’ principles from everything from cowhide to striated linings. I optimize everything in terms of cutting methods and techniques to minimize waste. We process even the smallest pieces to make accessories. My hope is that when I join Novica, I can introduce my products to the international community. I invite the whole world to get to know handmade crafts from Indonesia and also Indonesian fabrics." "