Amalia Fitriani, S.T.P., an alumna of the Department of Food and Agricultural Product Technology (TPHP) UGM from the class of 2018 and the founder of Call Me Tiramisu, was invited as a guest lecturer for the Entrepreneurship I course on Tuesday, May 6. Amalia, fondly known as Lia, shared her journey and valuable insights on the importance of developing entrepreneurial character in today’s challenging world.
According to Lia, building a business inevitably involves facing various problems and challenges. However, these very challenges often give rise to solutions and opportunities that can be leveraged to create a sustainable enterprise. “Entrepreneurial character is not something innate—it is shaped through experience, perseverance, and a continuously developed mindset,” she explained.
She emphasized that entrepreneurs should possess key traits such as a strong sense of curiosity, the ability to build extensive networks, and the creativity to add value through innovative approaches. In addition, risk-taking courage, strong determination, and consistent motivation are fundamental pillars in the entrepreneurial journey.
“Failure is not the end, nor something to fear. In fact, it should be used as a learning point and a motivator to move forward better,” Lia asserted. She encouraged students to think outside the box, either by creating new products or enhancing existing ones to better adapt to changing conditions. In her view, a true entrepreneur is not only a hard worker but also a smart one, sensitive to market needs and evolving trends in order to sustain their business.
During the session, Lia also shared the origin story of her own business. She identified a gap in the market: Tiramisu, as a premium dessert, was often seen as unaffordable for many. This challenge led her to conduct research and development (R&D) to create a delicious, practical, yet affordable tiramisu product. This innovation has since become the unique selling point of her business.
To close the lecture, Lia left students with a motivational message: “If you want to become an entrepreneur, start now. Cultivate your curiosity, expand your network, create value, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Great success in the future always begins with small steps and decisions we make today.”
This guest lecture aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goals 4: Quality Education, 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
Written by: Firstnandita K