Aru Nariman
This is not just my Sunway story, it’s the beginning of a larger journey, one where I carry the melodies of my grandparents and the hopes of my homeland into a future bright with endless possibilities.
I am Aru, a 20-year-old student from Kazakhstan, currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Design Communication. My life has been a symphony of culture, art, and resilience. My grandparents, a composer and a singer, infused my childhood with a profound appreciation for our rich Kazakh heritage. My first encounters with the transformative power of art were my grandfather’s compositions for a traditional instrument — kobyz and my grandmother's theatrical performances.
Despite the modest means of my family, my grandparents' achievements inspired my ambitions. I grew up sketching the rolling landscapes of Kazakhstan, finding solace and expression in the strokes of my pencil. The need for a scholarship drove me to excel academically, graduating as the top student in my school. My journey took an exciting turn when I won a competition in the 10th grade, earning the opportunity to study in an American high school. Living with an American host family broadened my horizons and deepened my love for my culture, especially when I realized how little Kazakhstan is known by the world. This experience was pivotal, earning me recognition from the American council for representing my beloved country.
However, life threw its curveballs. I briefly pursued studies in Korea, but the loss of my father and the need to be with my family brought me back to Kazakhstan. In the midst of these difficulties, Sunway University emerged as a beacon of hope. Discovering the Art and Design Scholarship was like finding an oasis in a desert. The scholarship not only offered me a chance to pursue my dreams tuition-free but also marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in my life.
At Sunway, I've grown immensely, both as an artist and as an individual. Here, I met my husband, a companion that has enriched my journey. My art is deeply inspired by my culture, intricately weaving traditional patterns with a touch of modernity. Every piece that I created is imbued with love, reflecting the rich tapestry of my heritage and the journey I've embarked upon. Sunway didn’t just educate me; it gave me a platform to showcase my culture and a community that appreciates my work.
To my juniors and anyone reading this, remember that your background, no matter how humble, is a canvas waiting for your story. Embrace every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. And most importantly, let your unique voice and heritage shine through in everything you do. This is not just my Sunway story; it’s the beginning of a larger journey, one where I carry the melodies of my grandparents and the hopes of my homeland into a future bright with endless possibilities.
Aru Nariman
Sunway University Art & Design Scholarship
