It’s no surprise that many graduates of the Tourism program from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) can become successful entrepreneurs. One such alumna is Tyas Ayu Upakartiningsih, who has inspired many.
Born in Lampung in 1992, Upakartiningsih has a passion for tourism. She was accepted at UGM through two pathways: the regular achievement (SNMPTN) and the International Undergraduate Program (IUP). Of these two, she chose the IUP.
Since she was a child, Upakartiningsih dreamed of traveling the world. She channeled this dream by actively participating in various national and international events.
After graduating, Upakartiningsih entered the world of wedding organizing (WO). This began from her experience during an internship, where she developed an interest in WO, decoration, and makeup. After completing her internship, Upakartiningsih became a freelance WO while working on her final thesis.
Upakartiningsih and her husband, Anang Resdiyadi, a UGM Tourism alumnus, manage various business lines, including WO, decoration, makeup, and catering services. They employ over 50 people.
In addition to running their business, Upakartiningsih is also active in social activities. Since 2018, she has often organized charity events. Upakartiningsih and her husband organize fundraising efforts to help victims during a disaster. One example is when they helped the victims of the Mount Mahameru disaster.
According to Upakartiningsih, what she is doing now has been part of her since a young age. Her parents raised her to be an entrepreneur, and this mindset continued into adulthood. Additionally, Upakartiningsih was inspired by her parents’ teachings to be empathetic and share with others from a young age.
Upakartiningsih and her husband are committed to advancing Lampung through their business ventures. For them, business is not only about making a profit but also about creating jobs and contributing to the local economy.
Upakartiningsih encourages fellow UGM alumni and students not to lose heart. Outside Java, UGM alumni still have a good reputation and strong solidarity. She also emphasizes the importance of creating job opportunities for the younger generation.
“The responsibility of being an entrepreneur is great; it’s not just about thinking about capital but also about how the business can continue,” said Upakartiningsih.
Upakartiningsih’s inspirational story shows that Tourism graduates can do more than work in hotels or travel agencies; they can also become successful entrepreneurs. With passion, hard work, and social concern, Upakartiningsih and her husband have created jobs in Lampung and become role models for the younger generation.