Firdaus Refani: The Heart Behind Local Craft Shop in Semarang
- 11 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Toko Ola is known as one of the leading handmade gift shops in Semarang, showcasing creative works from various local crafters and independent brands. Behind its warm and collaborative concept stands Firdaus Refani, an embroidery artist who believes that handmade products carry deeper value when they tell a story, show the process, and reflect the human connection behind them.
Originally designed as a concept store, Toko Ola aimed to connect local brands with a wider audience. Over time, it evolved into a creative hub where crafters, accessory makers, and handmade enthusiasts come together. More than just a shopping spot, Toko Ola has become a bridge between local craftsmanship and consumers who appreciate authenticity and creativity.
Highlighting Local Products with a Story
According to Refani, the biggest challenge for many creators in Semarang isn’t the ability to make products, it’s how to introduce their work to the public. Through Toko Ola, she aims to shift people’s perception of local handmade goods from simple souvenirs to collectible pieces with artistic and emotional value.
Inside the shop, visitors can find a variety of handmade creations, from fabric accessories and wooden crafts to aromatherapy candles and textile works inspired by Semarang’s local culture. Everything is carefully curated under one principle: every product is chosen because it means something.
“Every item in Toko Ola comes from a maker we know personally. We know their story. That’s what makes Toko Ola different,” Refani explains.
Building a Community of Creators and Crafters in Semarang
Beyond being a retail space, Toko Ola serves as a platform for creators to grow together. Refani and her team facilitate brand collaborations and help local artisans understand the basics of marketing and product packaging.
This initiative aligns with Toko Ola’s mission: to strengthen Semarang’s creative economy by creating a supportive ecosystem between creators, consumers, and the local community. With this approach, Toko Ola has grown into a place where ideas, businesses, and creativity naturally connect.
Teliti and the Passion for Handcrafted Works
Outside her role in Toko Ola, Firdaus Refani is also known for Teliti, a personal craft brand she built from the ground up. Teliti focuses on handmade products such as pouches, tote bags, and textile accessories, each featuring refined, detailed stitching that highlights craftsmanship and care.
Although Toko Ola and Teliti are separate entities, both share the same spirit: empowering local artisans and fostering creative independence. They reflect Refani’s dedication to building spaces that celebrate craftsmanship and creative processes.
Toko Ola as a Creative Hub for Local Brands in Semarang
Today, Toko Ola stands as one of the best places in Semarang to find handmade gifts and local crafts. Visitors come not only to shop but also to experience the stories behind each piece and engage directly with the makers.
Through its human-centered approach, Toko Ola doesn’t just drive the creative economy, it cultivates awareness that supporting local products means strengthening the city’s culture and identity.
About Creator Spotlight
Creator Spotlight is a storytelling program by Collabox Creative Hub, highlighting creators, innovators, and changemakers shaping the creative industry in Semarang and Central Java. Through these features, Collabox aims to showcase inspiring stories from the people behind the city’s growing creative ecosystem.
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