About Us

TORAJAMELO weaves heritage into hope. By preserving Indonesia’s backstrap loom tradition, we uplift rural artisans and break cycles of systemic poverty. Rooted in slow, ethical craftsmanship, we prevent migration that fractures communities while protecting natural habitats. Every thread carries a legacy, every weave encourages, and every creation nurtures sustainability—for people, culture, and the planet.

MISSION

Create culturally, socially, and environmentally integrated economies that benefit Indigenous Communities.

VISION

A world where indigenous women prosper.

OUR VALUES

Community Collaboration. Quality With Integrity. Action with Purpose. Compassion.

Rooted in our Three Pillars,

We are pioneering a transformative ecosystem where rural economies flourish within a sustainable and inclusive framework

COMMERCE :

TORAJAMELO is an ethical slow-fashion and lifestyle brand that brings the rich stories of Indonesia to the global stage. We serve both B2B and B2C markets, connecting conscious consumers and partners with handcrafted heritage.

COMMUNITY COLLABORATION :

At the heart of our work lies the preservation and evolution of weaving traditions. Through co-creation with our artisan partners, we champion sustainable practices that honor cultural authenticity while meeting contemporary needs.

We also support community-based ecotourism and regenerative economy initiatives to create diverse, lasting sources of income for rural communities.

CONSULTANCY :

Our consultancy services guide corporations in embedding ESG principles and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their business strategies. We also offer mentoring and coaching assistance to enable businesses to prosper today while honoring their core mission.

Our Core Team

Respect & Results
In GOD we trust, for all please bring data.

APARNA B SAXENA


CEO

From heritage, we craft a future of hope.

DINNY JUSUF

Founder

Advisory Board

In music we unite—across cultures, communities, and continents.

JOSHUA MATULESSY


Youth & Collaboration

Justice begins where values meet action.

LAINA R GREENE

Mission Driven Organisation

Innovation means nothing without sustainability at its core.

LILIEK SETIAWAN

Sustainability & Textile Innovation

Business must serve the planet—not just the bottom line.

SUZY HUTOMO

Business & Brand Strategy

Communities we partner with and We Continuously Aim to reach Untouched Communities

community map

Publications

Untanun Kameloan

Untannun Katuoan

  • Author :Dinny Jusuf, Trisa Melati
  • Genre :Cultural Studies
  • Language :Bahasa
  • Publisher :Yayasan Toraja Melo
  • Publishing Date :2014
  • Pages :116

An ethnographic exploration of the Sudan weaving community in Toraja, this book offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives and traditional practices of skilled artisans. Through detailed documentation and photography, readers discover the intricate world of Ne’ Burung/Lewangan weavers from To’barana village in Malimbong, Sudan District.

The book chronicles the complete weaving process, from traditional techniques like Pamiring, Pa’borong-borong, Paramba, and Pa’ruki to the cultural significance of Mangka’bi patterns. It captures personal stories of master weavers, their challenges, and the evolution of their craft in modern times.

Perfect for anthropologists, textile enthusiasts, cultural researchers, and anyone interested in Indonesian traditional crafts and community life.

Mengurai Benang Kusut, Meneun Kebersamaan Unraveling Knots

  • Author :Judi Achjadi, Keiko Kusakabe
  • Genre :Cultural Studies
  • Language :Bilingual (Bahasa and English)
  • Publisher :Yayasan Toraja Melo
  • Publishing Date :2014
  • Pages :125

How to UnF** Your Community-Based Social Enterprise

A powerful guide to transforming community-based social enterprises through the lens of traditional Indonesian weaving wisdom. This bilingual publication by Dinny Jusuf and Nani Zulminarni, published by TORAJAMELO, combines practical business strategy with cultural heritage preservation.

Using the metaphor of untangling knotted threads to weave unity, this book addresses the real challenges facing community enterprises. It offers authentic insights from experienced practitioners working directly with traditional weaving communities in Indonesia.

The book features compelling photography of master weavers and their traditional textiles, demonstrating how cultural preservation and sustainable business practices can work hand-in-hand. Perfect for social entrepreneurs, community development workers, cultural preservationists, and anyone interested in ethical business models rooted in traditional crafts.

A frank, no-nonsense approach to building successful community enterprises while honoring cultural heritage.

Untanun Kameloan

Untanun Kameloan

  • Author :Judi Achjadi, Keiko Kusakabe
  • Genre :Cultural Studies
  • Language:Bilingual (Bahasa and English)
  • Publisher :Yayasan Toraja Melo
  • Publishing Date :2014
  • Pages :125

Discover the inspiring story of community enablement and traditional preservation. Toraja Melo, meaning “Beautiful Toraja,” is dedicated to rejuvenating the unique weaving traditions of Toraja, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, while creating sustainable livelihoods for local weavers.

Since 2008, this social enterprise has been transforming traditional Torajan weaving into modern, high-quality fashion and homeware products. Perfect for cultural enthusiasts, sustainable living advocates, and anyone seeking authentic Indonesian craftsmanship. Each purchase directly supports weaver communities and helps preserve this beautiful cultural tradition.

Experience Torajan beauty while making a meaningful impact.

Untanun Kameloan

International Relations Diplomacy Primer

  • Author :Sandeep Chakravorty
  • Genre :Cultural Studies
  • Language:English
  • Publisher :Unique Publishers
  • Publishing Date :2025
  • Pages :310

International Relations Diplomacy Primer by Sandeep Chakravorty offers a comprehensive guide to IR and diplomacy, covering key terms, international organizations, theories, and doctrines. This updated second edition includes new sections on multilateral development banks, technology, and Indian Foreign Policy.

Features unique coverage of the “4Cs” – Climate, Cyber, Conflicts, and China – plus insights into the Diplomatic Toolbox and Indian Diaspora. Written by a veteran Indian Foreign Service diplomat with 30+ years of experience serving in Madrid, Bogota, Dhaka, New York, Peru, Bolivia, and currently as Ambassador to Indonesia.