Designing Her Future: Areesha’s Story of Resilience and Reinvention

Nur Areesha Iman Binti Mohd Rafazie, is a 20-year-old Muslim student from Subang Jaya, Selangor, who pursued her passion in Fashion & Tailoring as part of the 2023/2024 VTOC cohort. Areesha’s path hasn’t been the most conventional—she was homeschooled until age 12, with dreams of completing her IGCSE. However, financial struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic forced her to halt her education.

Areesha’s parents—both musicians—discovered VTOC through her aunt, who had forwarded a flyer via WhatsApp. From there, the journey to something new began.

Adjusting to life at VTOC wasn’t easy. Areesha found herself homesick during her first week, often in tears and struggling to grasp the theory portions of the curriculum. But with the guidance of her understanding lecturer, the late Ms. Janet, and her own quiet determination, she began to thrive. Her creative talents and passion for design soon came alive—leading her to win first place in the “Lalamove Merdeka Batik Shirt Design” competition during her time in VTOC.

(Her design brought to life)

(Areesha receiving an award for the Grand Prize Winner)

After graduation, Areesha interned and later continued working with Kanoe, a modern batik clothing brand. Though she started in the logistics department, she quickly discovered that the world of fashion wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Managing customer communications and order logistics proved tough, but she developed strategies and adapted—one challenge at a time.

She has since completed her time at Kanoe, finishing in December last year, and had proudly volunteered to speak in the Alumnae Dialogue Session during VTOC’s 2024/2025 Career Fair to share her journey with the next generation of students.

(Areesha motivates her juniors during the Alumnae Dialogue Session at VTOC’s 2024/2025 Career Fair)

Looking back, Areesha credits her progress to the support around her:

“Thank you to the sponsors who made my education possible, to my friends and family for standing by me through emotional highs and lows. Your belief in me gave me the strength to push forward.”

(Her message to youth everywhere is filled with honesty and hope)

“Life may be tough, but where your mindset is makes all the difference. You’ll face ups and downs, but eventually, things will turn around. Stay focused and always stay strong.”

As she looks ahead, Areesha dreams of starting her own fashion and makeup business, and hopes to further her education in the same field at university.

From a homeschooled teenager unsure of her next step, to a competition-winning fashion student and young working professional—Areesha’s journey is proof that second chances and steadfast hearts can build something beautiful.