Jakarta, August 23, 2024 – Yayasan Inspirasi Indonesia Membangun (YIIM), together with Insight Investments Management, conducted a socioeconomic empowerment program for vulnerable groups through a Perfume Entrepreneurship Training Program held on August 20–21, 2024. The training involved 17 participants from varied backgrounds, including correctional probation clients (Bapas), laid-off workers (PHK), homemakers, jobseekers, and informal daily laborers.

The workshop was mentored by Susgiharti, an entrepreneur who has been active in the fragrance industry since 2000. She owns the perfume brand Aneka Parfum, which currently operates 7 retail branches across Jakarta, Bekasi, and Tangerang.

The program was officially opened by a representative of YIIM’s Board of Management, Riccana Rosita, who serves as Treasurer. In her opening speech, she stated: “This training activity represents a tangible form of care from YIIM and INSIGHT to enhance participants’ practical skills in perfume entrepreneurship. The participants present today are selected individuals who passed a rigorous screening process. We sincerely hope for your earnest dedication in this training, so that upon completion you can become truly independent and self-reliant.”

On the first day, participants began by completing a pre-test to assess their baseline knowledge of perfumery. Following the test, participants received foundational instruction on perfume basics, including perfume concentrations, fragrance families, and formulation characteristics.

This foundational instruction aimed to build a thorough understanding of the perfume craft. Following theoretical orientation, participants undertook olfactory sensory exercises, identifying distinct fragrance profiles across concentrated perfume oils. This exercise is critical for heightening olfactory sensitivity, a prerequisite for compounding marketable fragrances. The trainees then proceeded enthusiastically to initial blending practicals.

On the second day, participants practiced formulating perfumes by blending multiple fragrance oils to create unique, novel scents. The workshop also featured an interactive discussion between the trainer and participants regarding commercial fragrance management, drawn from the trainer’s extensive practical experience in operating her retail stores.

The training concluded with certificate conferrals alongside closing remarks by Chrisbiantoro, Chairman of YIIM’s Board of Management. In his speech, Chrisbiantoro urged participants to boldly take the initiative to establish their fragrance ventures—whether by compounding their own blends or becoming product resellers—while encouraging them to seize apprenticeship opportunities at the instructor’s stores for ongoing business mentoring.

This event aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 1: No Poverty and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

By hosting this Perfume Entrepreneurship Training, YIIM hopes to empower vulnerable communities to participate actively in the economic sphere, while helping participants develop the knowledge and practical skills necessary to launch their own enterprises.

Salam Inspirasi!