From Healing to Leading: Helga Angelina’s Journey with Burgreens 🌿✨

Hello, fellow Local Guides! :globe_showing_asia_australia:

This post is my participation in the wonderful #SupportWomenBusinessWithMaps challenge hosted by @Globe_trotter_Ish. Thank you, Isha, for this inspiring initiative to highlight the incredible women behind the local businesses we love!

As a long-time resident of South Tangerang, I’ve always appreciated local spots that prioritize our community’s well-being. There’s one particular woman-led business in my neighborhood that stands out, not just for its menu, but for the genuine heart and vision behind its leadership: Burgreens.

Burgreens

When you hear the name “Burgreens,” what comes to mind? Is it just a green burger? :hamburger: A veggie burger? :broccoli: Or maybe a healthy “guilty pleasure”? :grinning_face_with_smiling_eyes:

Actually, the menu variety is impressive, from their signature plant-based Rendang and locally-inspired nasi goreng to international favorites like Chick’n Burgers, vegan ice cream, and YES, even boba and a dedicated kids’ menu! Their diverse offerings provide a plant-based twist for every palate, from the little ones to the health-conscious adult. :green_salad::bubble_tea::child:

For me, however, Burgreens represents something much deeper. Having followed their journey since the COVID-19 pandemic, I’ve been a regular at their spots in Bintaro (Kebayoran Arcade) and BSD (The Breeze) for the last 6 years. Whether I’m there for a peaceful dine-in, a quick delivery, or picking up their frozen products, this brand is a story of Indonesian grit and the unstoppable courage of CEO Helga Angelina Tjahjadi, who decided to make healthy, sustainable food accessible to everyone.

The Power of a Woman’s Healing :herb:

At just 15, Helga Angelina Tjahjadi faced chronic health issues. Her bold move to a plant-based diet didn’t just heal her; it sparked a passion that would change everything. While studying in the Netherlands, she met Max Mandias, who is now her husband and co-founder. Together, they returned home with a mission. They don’t just talk the talk; they walk the walk, staying active with Vegan running and holistic living. :herb::sparkles: The Vegan Runners Challenge This is a 30-day transformation.

  • :person_running: Train: Structured running programs to build strength.
  • :seedling: Fuel: Plant-powered nutrition to nourish the body.
  • :busts_in_silhouette: Connect: Real community accountability to stay motivated.

Resilience: “Never Give Up” :shield:

They spent years “cultivating a desert” before plant-based was even a trend in Indonesia. I remember during the toughest days of COVID, when many were forced to stop, they pivoted, protected their staff, and sent healthy meals to frontline workers. That is heart over hardship. :heart::high_voltage:

Evolution & The Agile Leader :soft_ice_cream::recycling_symbol:

Helga’s leadership is about staying agile. I’ve watched them collaborate with various partners to keep the experience exciting. I’ve noticed their displays and partner products change over time; not every collaboration stays forever. But that’s the reality of a growing business: testing, learning, and keeping things fresh. Through all these changes, the customer remains the priority. :counterclockwise_arrows_button::sparkles:

Leading the Way to a Circular Economy :leaf_fluttering_in_wind:

A recent collaboration that truly caught my eye is with Rekosistem x Burgreens x Grab :leaf_fluttering_in_wind:. About Rekosistem you can find it in my previous post here Rekosistem. This is a perfect example of how Helga’s leadership has evolved from personal healing to leading systemic change.

They are making a Circular Economy in Indonesia tangible for all of us. Decluttering those “mountains” of reusable spunbond bags at home has never been more convenient! We can simply visit any Burgreens location to drop off the old bags and receive a discount of up to 12% on the purchase. It’s a brilliant way to show that a Healthier Planet = Healthier People.
Rekosistem x Burgreens x Grab :leaf_fluttering_in_wind:

A Successful Woman-Led Social Enterprise :pizza:

Burgreens is a prime example of a successful, woman-led social enterprise. While co-founded with her husband, Helga serves as the CEO, leading the business with a vision that proves a woman-owned business can drive both commercial success and meaningful social change. :chart_increasing::woman_office_worker:

You can find the company profile here:
Burgreens

They work hand-in-hand to keep operations “zero waste” while supporting over 100 local organic farmers (UMKM Petani), buying at 20–30% above market price. It’s business as a force for good. :man_farmer::sparkles:

Smart & Mindful Eating :brain::fork_and_knife_with_plate:

I love that they include estimated calories on the menu. Plus, their point system is genius: you can only redeem points for specific products that rotate based on availability. It’s a smart way to get us to try something new! :wrapped_gift::sparkles: From my last visit, I also learned that they offer a Corporate Wellness Program. It’s fantastic that they are helping companies bring plant-based nutrition and mindful eating to their teams. :raising_hands:

My Local Favorites in South Tangerang :round_pushpin:

To me, Burgreens is such a powerful example of what happens when someone turns their own healing journey into a way to help others. I was so inspired to find out that Helga was actually recognized in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list back in 2016!
Forbes 30 under 30

Knowing that Helga has been leading with this vision for so long makes my own 6-year journey as a regular feel even more special. It’s a great reminder that this success wasn’t instant! They actually started with their very first store in Rempoa, South Tangerang, back in 2013. Even though that original location is no longer there, it was the seed that started it all. It’s been amazing to watch them grow from that first local spot in Rempoa to established flagship branches across Jakarta and South Tangerang. While they previously expanded into Bandung and Bali, their journey shows how a green mission can adapt and thrive anywhere! Plus, their mission continues nationwide through their plant-based frozen line, Green Rebel that available in supermarkets across Indonesia. :chart_increasing::herb:

Whether I’m sitting down for a meal at the Bintaro branch or The Breeze, ordering a quick delivery, or grabbing their frozen products for my pantry, I’m just so proud to support what they’re doing. I’m even looking forward to visiting their other branches soon to see how they bring this green mission to life in different spots!

For us as Local Guides, supporting women-owned businesses like Burgreens isn’t just about the tasty food; it’s about celebrating the amazing courage of leaders who never give up on making a difference! :herb::green_heart:

#SupportWomenBusinessWithMaps #MapsForAll

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@doc_dells Nice post…

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What a nice story! Seneng banget baca tulisan ini.

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Thanks @rashedul-alam ! Supporting these women-led spots makes the journey even more rewarding. Hope it inspires some healthy visits! :herb::flexed_biceps::cityscape:

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Halo mbak @NunungAfuah terima kasih sudah berkunjung ke post ini. Senang sekali bisa memberikan dukungan bagi bisnis lokal yang dipimpin oleh perempuan-perempuan inspiratif. :woman_raising_hand::glowing_star:

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Lovely post @doc_dells ! I will add this in the challenge ! Thank you for sharing this post ! Happy guiding !

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Hi @Globe_trotter_Ish Thank you, dear! Happy guiding :two_hearts:

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I’m a fan or Burgreens as well, Mbak @doc_dells :raising_hands:
But I’ve just known the story behind it, including the women-led business. Thanks so much for sharing a great story that is so inspiring.

So, what’s your favorite food and drink in Burgreens?

These are my favorites :

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Hi @Velvel Yes … For food: Rendang is one of my favorites. Other than that, Soto Ayam and Nasi Kuning Campur. While the drinks are Earl Grey Mylk Tea, Boba, and Brown Sugar Mylk Boba: Its heaven :star_struck:

1 Like