Get to know what goes behind the scenes in the life of a seasoned serial tech entrepreneur.
The Ambitionista is proud to feature Shinta Dhanuwardoyo. Based in Jakarta, Indonesia, she is the CEO and Founder of Bubu.com (Indonesia’s prominent digital advertising agency), an Angel Investor (co-founder of Angel eQ Network), and Co-Founder of VCNetwork.Co with Jenny Q. Ta, a virtual “Shark Tank” for startups that bridges the gap between modern entrepreneurs and forward-thinking venture capitalists worldwide.
What did you want to do when you grow up?
When I was young, I always told people I wanted to become a doctor, but at the end of the day, I just want to contribute and help human kind in the biggest possible way through technology.
Which women do you admire in your life?
My mom definitely, my grandma, Supeni. Supeni was one of Indonesia’s legendary women politicians. Her career was built from being Indonesia’s traveling ambassador during the 1960’s under Soekarno’s era (Indonesia’s first President). My grandma led a delegation of 19 men at the United Nation’s conference in New York in 1962. For that era, it was extraordinary. Of course, one day, I would love to sit down and hang out with Oprah Winfrey.
Name one activity that you do every day without fail
I always make sure that I learn something new every day.
If you are not working you would be … ?
Hanging out with my two daughters and husband. Head to the mall for some retail therapy with my daughters, or I would be shopping online 🙂
What’s your favorite vacation spot?
Bali, Indonesia (heaven on earth).
If you really want to dress to impress, what do you do?
I put on my Batik outfit. Batik is a traditional textile, which is done intricately through a resistant wax dyeing process. It’s one of the highest forms of art that can be found in Indonesia. (Here is my blog:
What’s your favorite everyday beauty brands/products?
Nothing in particular, but I love Guerlain, Armani, Chanel, and Dior.
What was the biggest obstacle you have faced that in the end helped you?
Failures that I went through in a number of my business ventures.
How often do you check your emails?
After every meeting. Most of the time, my daily work schedule is back-to-back meetings..
How do you stay sane and on top of it?
I think of my two beautiful daughters.
How do you get energized?
I feel energized after a glass of fresh squeezed orange mixed with strawberry juice.
Do you exercise? If yes, what type and how often?
I just do planks and squats daily for 10 minutes. Then on weekends, I hit the gym.
What do you splurge on?
I splurge on gorgeous Indonesian Batik cloths (yes, the best ones cost thousands and thousands of dollars) and the best pair of stiletto heels like Valentino’s rock studs and Louboutins.
What does success mean to you?
Success to me is having a balance in life between work, family, social and spiritual life and to be useful for human kind.
If you could meet a younger you from 10 years ago, what would you have told her?
Don’t be afraid to stand out and think bigger than ever.
“Done is better than perfect” – SHERYL SANDBERG
Lately, we’ve been obsessed with everything DVF here at TA. From her effortless style to her fearless approach to life, she’s proven time and time again that she’s a force to be reckoned with.
Her legendary wrap dress cemented her name as a luxury lifestyle brand in fashion and her legacy continues to inspire generations of young women. In honor of DVF, we present to you some words of wisdom from the inimitable Diane herself.
It’s OK to not have the future perfectly planned out, but always know the person you want to be.
Be your own best friend.
Become a legend. Easy enough.
On success.
Tend to the most important relationship in your life: the one you have with yourself.
The power of confidence.
Never underestimate an excellent attitude.
I’m currently in the middle of her new memoir The Woman I Wanted to Be, so stay tuned for a fan girl book review.
