“I’ve always enjoyed music and singing and would like to take it more seriously. Music is a passion I share with my dad, and we make digital music together. Maybe someday we can put out an album of our compositions!”
Meet Nadia B. (’30), a Grade 6 student passionate about drama, digital art, crochet, and music. When not exploring her creative side, she enjoys playing volleyball and reading in her spare time.
Here is Nadia’s story:
Can you tell us more about yourself?
I’m what they call rojak in Malaysia – a mix of ethnicities and cultures from the UK, Malaysia, and Mauritius. I am the youngest of four siblings – my elder sister has already graduated from university, my big brother is currently in university, and I have another brother in Grade 8.
Before moving to Malaysia a year ago, I lived in the Philippines, Cambodia, and Hong Kong.
Which grade did you join ISKL? What were your first days of school like?
I joined ISKL in Grade 5, my second year at ISKL. My first day of school was welcoming, and I felt comfortable reasonably quickly because I made lots of new, super kind, and funny friends.
Do you participate in any co-curricular activities at ISKL? Please describe them.
I love drama and was in the MS production The Weight of Our Sky. It was a challenging story to be a part of but a rewarding experience.
In addition, my brothers taught me to play volleyball during the summer break of 2022, and I have continued to improve my skills by joining the volleyball After School Activities (ASAs).
Can you tell us more about your other hobbies and interests?
I’m pretty creative and can get lost in endless digital art options. In the last four months, I have taught myself to crochet, and my goal is to finish making a blanket by Christmas.
Reading calms me, and my favorite genre is realistic fiction. The book Out of My Mind by author Sharon M. Draper greatly impacted me because the protagonist, a disabled girl, wants to be a Middle Schooler like everyone else.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future?
I’ve always enjoyed music and singing and would like to take it more seriously. Music is a passion I share with my dad, and we make digital music together. Maybe someday we can put out an album of our compositions!
Who or what inspires you or has influenced you?
My mum and dad inspire me the most because they have persevered through many different ups and downs, all while staying super positive. My mum has taught me to be a good person, and my dad has taught me all the jokes I need to pull out when necessary!
Most memorable moment at ISKL?
The final performance of Seussical in Grade 5 was a bittersweet moment. Everyone was so happy that the performance was a success after our hard work and dedication. Still, I was sad to leave Elementary School (ES), having worked with such amazing teachers and students.
What does “Know yourself, care for all, and create a better world” mean to you?
It means that wherever you go, no matter your situation, take care of yourself physically and mentally. Be a good person to others, the person people want to be around, and spread kindness wherever you go.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff who always have an anecdote to tell, love to share some insights into their passions and interest, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.
