Inspiring Stories of Local Entrepreneurs: From Washerman to Bali’s Souvenir King: Ajik Krisna‘s Inspiring Story. For many people, a vacation feels incomplete without buying souvenirs. Especially, if you are on vacation in Bali. Krisna Oleh-Oleh Bali (hereafter Krisna) is a famous place to buy souvenirs on the Island of the Gods.
According to the official website krisnabali.co.id, Krisna is the largest and most comprehensive Bali souvenir center in Southeast Asia. Krisna was established in 2007. Since then, Krisna has grown rapidly. To date, Krisna has 31 outlets.
Inspiring Stories of Local Entrepreneurs: From Washerman to Bali’s Souvenir King: Ajik Krisna‘s Inspiring Story
Krisna’s history cannot be separated from Ajik Krisna. This is a nickname. His real name is Gusti Ngurah Anom. He was born and raised in Tangguwisia, a small village in Seririt sub-district, Buleleng district. He was the youngest of seven children. His family was poor. Since childhood, Anom was hyperactive, stubborn, aggressive, lively and loud-minded. He wanted everything he asked for granted.
When he was about to continue his education to high school, Anom’s father called him. The father said he could no longer afford to pay for his son’s education. Anom was very disappointed and angry. He decided to leave home, taking a truck to Denpasar. He lived rough. However, his determination never waned. His first job was as a laundress at Hotel Rani, a hotel in Sanur. He worked hard. His work was good. He worked in several hotels around Hotel Rani.
Unfortunately, he had to quit due to health reasons. Anom then decided to stay at his uncle’s house, a confectionery businessman. During that time, he helped his uncle without pay. Later, he worked at a confectionery company owned by a man named Pak Sidharta. He often gave her stitching jobs at his uncle’s confectionery. While working at Mr. Sidharta’s place, Anom was treated very well. To return the favor, he did his best. Here, Anom learned many things from Mr. Sidharta, who also motivated him.
In 1992, Anom opened a clothing shop on Nusa Indah Street in Denpasar. He named his shop Cok Konfeksi. Anom was diligent in building networks and seeking orders. The results were not in vain. Cok Konfeksi progressed.
Then, Anom initiated a business expansion. He wanted to create a Balinese souvenir center. It contained snacks and handicrafts. Krisna opened for the first time on May 16, 2007, at Jalan Nusa Indah No. 77, Denpasar, Bali. He started the production of T-shirts as Balinese souvenirs with caricatures. The caricature designs are made by involving famous designers. Anom’s business instincts were sharp. The T-shirts were a hit with the public. Sales exceeded the target. Other souvenirs were also in high demand. Given the enthusiasm of consumers, Anom was determined to continue expanding his business. He then engaged a partner in the property sector on Jalan Nusa Kambangan, Denpasar, to work together to establish the second Krisna Oleh-Oleh Khas Bali. The parking lot and shopping area are more spacious. Plus a restaurant and other comfortable facilities such as a place of worship.
Krisna now has seven outlets in Sunset Road, Tuban, Singaraja, Gianyar, Ngurah Rai Bypass, Nusa Indah, and Nusa Kambangan. In addition, there is one mini outlet called Krisna Samasta located in Jimbaran.
Not only can be found in Bali, tourists can also find it in Surabaya and Kota Tua Jakarta. As for the operating hours, it starts from 09:00 WITA until 22:00 WITA. All this success does not make Anom forget himself. He is active in social activities, helping people who are less fortunate.
It is interesting to follow Ajik Krisna’s journey. Since childhood, his life was full of challenges. He came from a poor family. His dreams of continuing his education were not fulfilled. However, he did not give up. His decision to leave home for a better life reflects his extraordinary determination. His long journey, which started with simple jobs, proves that with strong determination and tenacity, a person can change their fate. Ajik Krisna’s life journey teaches us that hardship is not a barrier to success. Instead, difficulties, no matter how big, become stepping stones and motivation to achieve our goals.
The experience of working in various places, especially in the confectionery company owned by his uncle and Mr. Sidharta, has been the best teacher for Anom. Through mentor guidance and hands-on practice, Anom managed to hone his skills and knowledge. Another lesson learned is that we cannot solely rely on our own abilities. A successful entrepreneur like Ajik Krisna must be good at building good relationships with the people around him. Appreciating and respecting mentors and business partners is the foundation for building a strong network and reputation.
Anom’s decision to open Krisna in 2007 shows that he has foresight. He understands that Bali is a tourism paradise. Tourists are usually looking for souvenirs to bring home. However, not just any souvenir, but something that is uniquely Balinese. Product development strategies such as Balinese caricature T-shirts reflect a deep understanding of consumer needs and tastes. Equally important is the belief that when looking for souvenirs, tourists need a comfortable place. While searching, they need to rest and relax, at least for a while. So, a comfortable place is important. Thus, visitors will feel at home in Krisna.
A true entrepreneur is not complacent with one success. Ajik Krisna is no exception. No wonder he expanded his business. Not only in Bali, but also in Surabaya and Jakarta. However, not just expansion. Expansion must also be done by considering and calculating risks.
Ajik Krisna’s involvement in various social activities reflects leadership based on values and responsibility to the community. This also boosts Krisna’s reputation. The company does not merely pursue profit, but also cares about community empowerment.
Inspiring Stories of Local Entrepreneurs: From Washerman to Bali’s Souvenir King: Ajik Krisna‘s Inspiring Story
Category; Business & Organization Transformation
#Krisna Oleh-Oleh Bali #Ajik Krisna Hotel Rani #confection #Cok Konfeksi #karikatur #challenge #mentor #tourism
