Origin story
Why we exist
"My first inception of the idea arrived in September 2023 after reminiscing on my summer in New York City: one of my teachers at Jakarta Intercultural School had persuaded me to take a summer course on nanotechnology at Columbia University, which prompted me to explore the potential of natural materials replacing artificial ones."
— Rayden Yap, Founder & Head Manufacturer
As a social impact startup, we'll work with anyone — from seasoned artisans to young Gen Z influencers — who hopes to develop eco-friendly products but lacks resources or training. Our workshops teach participants the process of making our bioleather and navigating social entrepreneurship just as we have.
What drives us
Our values
Circular design
We transform kombucha cellulose into durable biomaterials that can be regenerated and reused.
Community first
Our programs are built with rural craftspeople to unlock new revenue streams close to home.
Radical transparency
From sourcing to finishing, we document every step so partners can see exactly how their leather is made.
Impact
By the numbers
CO₂ Offset
8,000kg+
We outsource our calculations and record data of the kilograms of material we produce as well as the emissions that normal leathermaking processes take up. Our fermentation process is practically carbon neutral with the exception of transportation emissions.
Students + Craftspeople Reached
16k+
Students either attend our events or act as ambassadors for our cause while craftspeople are taught to both grow Kombucha Bioleather themselves and locally advertise products made with our material. Aside from most of these people being from all over Indonesia, we have worked with students in Asia and in the US as well.
Provinces Visited
5
We have reinvested all profits back into Symbia to fund mission trips to rural Indonesian villages and teach craftspeople in person. Some of our locations include local schools and vocational education centers, where we teach free of charge.