Last week, Paloma Sjahrir Foundation hosted our second session of “Paloma Circles: Women Investors Social”—an intimate and energizing evening that brought together women who are investing with intention and leading with heart.
More than just a networking session, this event created space for meaningful dialogue around what it truly means to align capital with values. It was a night of connection, clarity, and shared purpose—where stories were exchanged, challenges were unpacked, and the collective influence of women investors was strengthened.
The evening featured powerful insights from three women who are walking the talk:
- Avina Sugiarto, Partner at East Ventures, shared her journey of integrating ESG into institutional investing. Whether supporting early-stage founders or collaborating with angel communities, she highlighted how impact and commercial success can—and should—coexist.
- Samira Shihab, Jakarta Lead of Epic Angels, spoke about the power of angel investors in shaping startup ecosystems. She emphasized how being intentional about who’s at the table—especially in early-stage ventures—can create stronger outcomes for female founders and the communities they serve.
- Ratna Kartadjoemena, Chairperson of Paloma Sjahrir Foundation and an angel investor herself, reflected on her personal approach to investing—one that is deeply rooted in the causes she believes in.
Following the panel, participants gathered in small group circles to exchange thoughts, challenges and hopes around impact investing—as women. The discussions were honest, reflective, and deeply affirming, creating a space for shared learning and peer support.
Through gatherings like this, we continue to nurture the community infrastructure that helps impact enterprises thrive—quietly strengthening the ecosystem, one relationship at a time.
Because investing with purpose starts with people who care.
