Vocational Training Opportunity Centre (VTOC)
From Kampung Roots to City Dreams:
Azila’s Journey
The journey of Nurul Azila Binti Azmi from the Temiar Orang Asli community in Lenggong, Perak began at just 16 years old in VTOC. Azila has already completed two vocational courses at the YWCA Vocational Training Opportunity Centre (VTOC)—first in Beauty Care (2023/2024) and then, returning on her own accord, in Hairdressing (2024/2025).
Her path is a powerful example of what happens when opportunity meets resilience. Azila’s journey to VTOC began thanks to Dr. Hakim, who was working on a forest conservation project near her kampung. Through his sister, Matron Margaret, he learned about VTOC and saw potential in Azila and a few of her friends. With arrangements made, Azila joined the Beauty Care course—arriving later in the year but impressively catching up quickly with her peers.
(Recruitment trip at Kapit, Sarawak)
(Azila performing manicure on a client)
Coming from a close-knit rural background, transitioning into the city environment and mixing with trainees from various backgrounds wasn’t easy. But as the months passed, Azila blossomed into a confident and social young woman. She even choreographed group dances for VTOC celebrations—showcasing not just her skills in beauty, but also her natural creativity and love for performance. During her Beauty Care course, Azila interned with Ritzy Beauty Spa, Subang Jaya. Her strong work ethic and fast learning impressed her supervisors. In 2024/2025 she made the bold decision to return to study Hairdressing. She took on an apprenticeship with Zrii Beauty Salon, focusing on wash & blow and organic treatments, gaining hands-on experience and refining her techniques.
But Azila’s story didn’t stop there. When an offer for weekend internships at the Federal Hotel (in housekeeping) came her way, she seized it. After graduation, she accepted a full-time employment with the hotel. Today, Azila resides at VTOC as a tenant, commuting to work while continuing to chase her dreams.
(Azila giving her Words of Appreciation during the VTOC Graduation Ceremony)
(A Fight Song performance led by her wraps up the ceremony)
Azila shares:
“Thank you to all the sponsors who made this education possible, to Dr. Hakim for bringing me here, and to the whole VTOC community for giving me an experience I will always carry with me.”
(Her words of encouragement to others are deeply personal and inspiring:)
“To everyone striving for yourself—do your best. I hope you get to do the things you love, because you deserve it. Don’t worry about what people say. Face challenges with courage—they’ll help build your confidence in the future.”
Azila plans to save from her current job and continue exploring what comes next. In the future her dream is to pursue higher education and to keep growing—professionally and personally.
Azila’s journey is a testament to the power of support, hard work, and believing in one's worth. We are incredibly proud to have played a small role in her story—and look forward to all that lies ahead.