Vocational Training Opportunity Centre (VTOC)
A Journey of Growth:
Farahnadia’s Path to Success
Farahnadia Nadielaili A/P Sendi, is a determined young woman from Rompin, Pahang, who is now on her way to building a brighter future.
Now 22 years old, Farahnadia, who is from the Orang Asli Jakun tribe, has made remarkable progress since joining the Hairdressing Course at the YWCA Vocational Training Opportunity Centre (VTOC) in the 2023/2024 batch. Coming from a modest background, Farahnadia was raised in a close-knit family—her father works on a farm, her mother is a homemaker, and her older siblings are now supporting families of their own. She had completed up to UPSR and didn’t have the opportunity to continue schooling after that.
Her journey to VTOC began when Katherine Ong, a dedicated volunteer from her kampung—fondly known as Aunty Katherine—saw her potential and encouraged her to pursue vocational training.
(Farahnadia during her time training with VTOC)
Though excited, the road wasn’t always easy. She faced challenges adapting to the language and the physically demanding nature of the course. But Farahnadia didn’t give up. Her strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and a quiet determination saw her through. Over time, she caught up with her lessons and even began to shine in her skillset. She joined Organic Express Hair Color Lab in Johor Bahru during her internship to hone her skills and acquire the needed field training.
Now working as a Junior Stylist in the same salon, Farahnadia handles chemical work such as hair colouring and treatments and is slowly mastering haircutting techniques. She’s also learning the art of customer service—an area that, while challenging at times, has helped her grow more confident. One of the greatest affirmations of her progress is when customers return and specifically ask for her by name. To her, that’s proof that her hard work and training have truly paid off.
(Sharing her internship experience with her juniors)
(Now a junior stylist in action)
Farahnadia is grateful to many:
“To MCEF, VTOC and my lecturer Ms. Jamuna Ellaya, Aunty Katherine, my family and everyone who believed in me – thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
As she looks ahead, her dream is to one day open her own salon in her hometown, where she can use her skills to uplift herself and give back to her community.
(Farahnadia (left) with Principal, Mdm. Elizabeth Easaw and Hairdressing Lecturer, Ms. Jamuna Ellaya (right))
Her message to others is simple yet powerful:
“To everyone studying or chasing their dreams—never give up. Keep pushing yourself to be the best version of you. Your dream is worth it.”