Shofi Afifi's Journey to Success in the Furniture Industry
Shofi Afifi, a furniture entrepreneur and owner of Zahra Furniture Design, has had an inspiring life journey. Initially aspiring to join the Indonesian Army (ABRI) to serve the nation, he faced the reality that his limited vision prevented him from taking the military exam. However, his passion for service did not diminish. He chose another path by joining the Student Regiment (Menwa) at IAIN (now UIN) Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, which shaped his leadership and discipline.
From Menwa to the Furniture Industry
"Alhamdulillah, even without rank or decorations, I was still able to serve through Menwa, which is also a component of national defense," Shofi said, recalling his college days.
Now, Shofi Afifi is expanding his business in the furniture industry by managing a showroom and workshop on Jalan Haji Darip, East Jakarta. As the owner of Zahra Furniture Design, he offers a variety of custom products such as kitchen sets, bedroom sets, sofas, and living room furnishings. Furthermore, he was entrusted with the position of Deputy Chairperson for National Inter-Institutional Relations at the Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Furniture and Craft Industry Association (HIMKI), further expanding his contribution to the national furniture industry.
His life philosophy, Khoirun Nash Amfauhum Linnash, which means "The best people are those who are most beneficial to others," remains the primary principle in running his business. Despite his success, he continues to apply the values he learned at Menwa in the business world, particularly in terms of discipline and courage in facing challenges.
"Discipline and the courage to accept reality are crucial in running a business," he said.
Furniture Business and Activism
Besides running his business, Shofi is also active in fulfilling custom furniture needs for various parties, including schools requiring teak chairs and student desks. Interestingly, before entering the business world, he served as a junior high and high school teacher for four years (1994–1998). This experience further honed his sensitivity to market needs and customer service in the furniture industry.
As an activist, Shofi has strong leadership experience since his Menwa days. He has served as a Company Commander (Danki) and Platoon Commander (Danton), where he not only mentored new recruits but also participated in various student movements. One of his most memorable experiences was leading a demonstration on campus, where he consistently demonstrated discipline and strategy in voicing his aspirations.
According to him, his experience in the Student Regiment (Menwa) had a significant impact on his business management. Discipline, courage, and commitment to service were the keys to his success in building his now-growing business. Shofi also hopes that Menwa on various campuses will continue to play an active role as a dignified component of national defense.
"Menwa must return to its original path, becoming part of the TNI command, and continue to foster members to remain disciplined, courageous, and ready to serve the country," he hoped.
Maintaining Balance Between Career and Family
Outside of business and organizations, Shofi maintains a balance between career and family. He has three children who have pursued their own career paths. His eldest son, a graduate of Brawijaya University in Malang, now works in layout and construction. His second daughter, a graduate of UNJ, pursued a career in IT in Bali, while his youngest daughter chose entrepreneurship.
As a father, he consistently instilled the values of discipline and hard work in his children, setting a life example of passion and dedication. He believes that in the business world, patience, consistency, and a clear vision are key to facing various challenges.
With a rich background of experience – from Menwa to the business world – Shofi Afifi proves that life's winding paths can lead to success, provided they are pursued with discipline, sincerity, and a strong sense of service. (Ed)
