Debeasinta “Debby” Aliza Budiman is the co-founder and Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Superapp, a social commerce platform that builds agent networks that sell affordable staple products in the second and third-tier cities and rural areas.

Superapp has raised a total of $106M from NEA, Softbank, Y-Combinator Continuity Fund, DST Global Partners, B Capital, Jay-Z, Insignia, TNB Aura, Amasia, the former world bank managing director Mari Elka Pangestu, and Alpha JWC Ventures.

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👋🏼 How would you explain your job to someone outside tech?

I explore potential forms of partnerships and discover new strategic partners to expand Superapp’s business. The strategic partners, which range from local SMEs to multinational corporations, take on the role of Superapp’s suppliers, customers, and manufacturers of private-labeled products.

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🧐 What's something about you or your job that would surprise us?

I sold buckets of vegetables from the bed of a pick-up truck when I was in high school to help an elderly seller. I had to be there for a whole day since 5 AM, only earning very little even after everything was sold out.

It motivated me to someday help these economically challenged people. All in all, that day was truly a humbling & inspiring experience that has shaped me into who I am today.

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🏆 What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

Founded a company for the first time that changes people’s lives. I feel honored when my company focuses not only on profitability, but also on the impacts we make on marginalized society.

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🔍 What's a startup trend or space you're watching this year?‍

Agritech. The agriculture industry is of little interest to the younger population because it’s perceived as old-fashioned. By adding an essence of technology into it, the young generation starts to develop a new approach on how to enhance agriculture in the coming years.

This kind of advancement will support global food security and boost productivity & efficiency in the agricultural sector.

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💼 What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry?

Focus on creating a sustainable business from day one! We have to build a solid foundation and deliver values to our stakeholders, thereby ensuring a long-lasting business.

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‍🗣 What's one thing you can keep talking about for hours?

My past experiences and lessons learned

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🎥 What's your favorite movie/TV show?

The Conjuring

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🍨 What's your go-to ice cream flavor?‍

Durian FTW!

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FYI. We've edited this interview for clarity.