K. Sarvena first attended the Maharani camp at the age of 14.

“It was fun and full of activities but as I was very shy I did not talk much and spent a lot of time quietly observing others,” she said.

The camp experience helped Sarvena to step outside her comfort zone and start exploring opportunities she would never have otherwise dreamt of. She took part in the skills training programmes such as flower arrangement and baking classes at the Maharani Learning Lab. On Saturdays, she attended the free academic coaching classes which helped her with her studies.

Today, the 19-year-old joined hands with her elder sister, selling fresh hand bouquets, to earn a part-time income.

“My father is a lorry driver and my mother, a housewife. By doing this business, we can make some money of our own. My friends have been supportive especially during the school year-end period as they order flowers for classmates or teachers,” she said.

“The flower arrangement classes at Maharani were a great help. I learned many techniques from the coordinator there. I also looked up other styles and latest trends in this business online,” she said.

Motivated by the small income she earned from the flower business, Sarvena started an online business of selling clothes.

“I sell on Instagram and so far, the response has been good. It is a dropship model where I don’t have to buy the clothes and so there is not much of investment on my part, except for my time,” she said.

Sarvena credits the Maharani programme with giving her the confidence and instilling an entrepreneurial interest in her.

Sarvena is currently studying to earn a pre-university degree and has also enrolled her two younger sisters Sharmili, 17 and Darshavi, 15 into the Maharani programme.

“Both my sisters enjoyed the baking classes and sometimes will bake at home. I love their butter cake. After joining the Maharani programme, I see the difference in them such as improved concentration in studies and participating in school activities,” she said.

“As for me, I am still a quiet person who prefers to draw or read Malay novels. But after attending the Maharani programme, I am now able to hold a conversation with people and share my thoughts clearly,” she said.

This school librarian said she dreams of becoming a graphic designer when she grows up.