To Strengthen Students’ Entrepreneurial Spirit and Financial Literacy, IPB University and Dreamdelion Launch the WAVE Project
IPB University, in collaboration with the Dreamdelion Indonesia Foundation, officially launched the Women’s Economic and Emotional Empowerment for Value Enhancement (WAVE) entrepreneurship program series. This program includes business competitions, boot camps, and business incubation. The series kicked off with a webinar titled “Entrepreneurial Mindset: Discover, Build, and Grow Your Ideas” on 10/25.
In his remarks, IPB University’s Vice Rector for Education and Student Affairs, Prof Deni Noviana, noted that the challenges of the workforce and entrepreneurship are becoming increasingly complex. Data reveals a gap in women’s labor force participation in Indonesia, where female entrepreneurs often face double barriers, ranging from financial literacy and business networks to mental resilience.
“Of course, IPB University is committed not only to producing graduates who excel academically in the classroom but also to fostering a young generation with strong character, an entrepreneurial spirit, and solid financial literacy. Therefore, IPB University warmly welcomes and appreciates this strategic collaboration with Dreamdelion through the WAVE Project,” he added.
Prof Deni noted that this program is highly comprehensive as it encompasses four main pillars: business development knowledge, financial literacy, mental health and resilience, and social media management skills. He hopes students will make the most of this golden opportunity as a space to grow, learn, build networks, and hone their economic and emotional independence.
Dreamdelion founder Alia Noor Anoviar reminded students that the post college transition period demands financial independence and mental resilience. She emphasized that career and business success after graduation stem from discipline and hard work during college, not just instant luck.
“Life after college isn’t as easy as it was when you were still in school. You must generate your own income, avoid being a burden on your parents, support yourselves, build a career, and face the extraordinary challenges of the working world,” she said.
Alia shared her experience of founding Dreamdelion, which began as a Student Creativity Program (PKM) and has managed to survive and grow for 16 years. According to her, college provides the time and access to a broad network to test various business ideas without fear of failure.
“Never underestimate the skills you have right now. Focus on seeing the problems around you as opportunities, because consistency and the courage to adapt are the keys to building a sustainable business,” she advised.
Real life inspiration was also shared by Sonya Suci Ramadhani, a graduate of the Department of Plant Protection at IPB University Class of ’49, who successfully founded Sonya Botanika, a natural personal care products business. Sonya explained how the values of environmental stewardship instilled during her time at IPB University became the cornerstone of her business.
“Make the most of the privileges and the IPB University alumni network. College is the best time to explore ideas, face challenges, and test your abilities,” she said. (MHT) (IAAS/WSG)
