Empowering Indonesia’s Young Entrepreneurs Through Side Hustle Workshop
On Saturday 13th July 2025, Launch Pad Western Sydney University brought its mission to life in Indonesia, through a vibrant and impactful event focused on inspiring Indonesia’s next generation of entrepreneurs.
Indonesia has one of the highest rates of youth entrepreneurship in Southeast Asia, with over 35% of young people engaging in business or planning to start one.
Indonesia is home to one of the most vibrant entrepreneurial cultures in Southeast Asia. According to the World Economic Forum, over 35% of Indonesian youth are either running a business or planning to start one — a clear sign of the strong entrepreneurial drive among the younger generation.
Held at the Western Sydney University Indonesia campus in Surabaya, the half-day workshop attracted over 100 passionate students, young professionals, and founders from across the region. The session aimed to equip young people with the tools, mindset, and confidence to start or grow their own side hustles — turning passion into real-world opportunity.
Fostering Entrepreneurial Mindsets
Throughout the session, participants engaged in hands-on activities that encouraged creativity, self-reflection, and strategic thinking. From identifying personal strengths to building digital presence and business models, the workshop was designed to meet young people where they are — and support where they want to go.
More than just a learning experience, the event created space for authentic conversations, connections, and personal breakthroughs — all aligned with Launch Pad’s belief in founder-first support.
Real Voices, Real Impact
“This was the best event I’ve ever attended!
As someone who started a small business in my first year of high school, learning more about side hustles was extremely valuable and inspiring. It helped me with challenges like being inconsistent, overthinking what people say, and managing my time better.
The fact that it was free, with amazing facilities and warm hospitality, made it even more special.
I’m truly grateful to Ma’am Inu and Mabel for leading this event with such passion, and for taking the time to speak with me personally after the session. Meeting Holly Natasha was especially empowering — I left with so much motivation to keep building my business and improving my English!”
Hearing this feedback reinforces our commitment to creating accessible, high-impact programs for young people with ambition and potential.
Spotlight on Young Founder Holly Natasha
One of the standout moments of the workshop was hearing by Holly Natasha — a 17-year-old entrepreneur who is already managing three businesses. Holly spoke openly about her entrepreneurial journey, the power of building a personal brand, and how Gen Z can use digital platforms to create opportunity and impact.
Her authenticity and drive deeply resonated with the audience, especially younger students navigating their own early business ideas
Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond
This event in Surabaya is just the beginning of many more Launch Pad initiatives planned across Indonesia. Our vision is to foster inclusive innovation, connect youth with global opportunities, and support young people to build what matters, whether it’s a small business, a creative brand, or a bold new idea.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and supported the event. Together, we are shaping a future where entrepreneurship is not just taught — it’s lived.
Want to learn more about Launch Pad in Indonesia and Australia?
Visit launchpadlive.com.au or follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram @LaunchPadWSU.