It is not surprising that many graduates from the Tourism program at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) become successful entrepreneurs. This is proven from the inspiring stories of the alumni’s program. One such example is Tyas Ayu Upakartiningsih, an alumnus of UGM’s Tourism program who has become an inspiration to many.
Tyas, born in Lampung in 1992, has always had a passion for tourism. She entered UGM through the regular SNMPTN Tourism track but chose to major in the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) in Tourism. Her dream has always been to travel the world, and she frequently participated in various national and international events.
After graduating, Tyas decided to venture into the world of Wedding Organization (WO). This decision stemmed from her internship experience, where she developed an interest in WO, decoration, and makeup. After completing her internship, Tyas decided to freelance in WO while working on her final thesis.
Besides running a business, Tyas is also active in social activities. Since 2018, she has often organized charity events. Whenever a disaster occurs, Tyas and her husband always raise funds to help the victims. One example is when they assisted the victims of the Mount Mahameru disaster.
According to Tyas, social activities have always been a part of her life. She was raised by her parents to become a businessperson from a young age, and this mindset continued to shape her into adulthood. Moreover, she was inspired by her parents, who instilled in her a spirit of sharing since a young age.
Currently, Tyas and her husband, Anang Resdiyadi, who is also a UGM Tourism alumnus, manage various business lines, including WO, decoration, makeup, and catering services. They employed more than 50 people.
Tyas encourages fellow UGM alumni and students to stay motivated. According to her, UGM alumni have a good reputation and strong solidarity, especially outside Java. She also emphasizes the importance of creating job opportunities for the younger generation.
“The responsibility of being an entrepreneur is great, not just thinking about capital but also how the business can continue,” said Tyas.
Tyas and her husband are also committed to advancing Lampung through their business ventures. For them, business is not just about making a profit but also about creating jobs and contributing to local economic development.
Tyas’s inspirational story shows that tourism graduates can become successful entrepreneurs, not just work in hotels or travel agencies. With passion, hard work, and social concern, Tyas and her husband have successfully created jobs in Lampung and become role models for the younger generation.
[Alumni Office: Kamila, Translated: Syahrul, Photo: Tyas]