It all started with a recommendation from a friend. “You should watch this anime” and “It’s based off this manga” quickly turned into a lifelong passion. My love for characters and stories that drew me in so deeply, I’d forget time even existed, became my new norm. For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had something to read & fall back on, like a warm embrace. And even when the stories shook my core, made my heart ache and tears fall — they comforted me beyond physical touch or sweet words.
When books turned into shows, producing visuals beyond what my mind could create, I fell even harder. And like any domino effect, my axis was tilted and swept along into the depths of eastern entertainment. Perhaps it’s because I spent part of my adolescence in Malaysia, surrounded by beautiful cultures and breathtaking sights, my mind drifted back towards something familiar. A place and time I’ve held so tightly inside my heart, that I can’t help but fall in love with the stories that bring back precious memories over and over again.
To me, the dramas, fan meets and concerts aren’t just a momentary escape from reality, but a connection to a past once filled with adventure, love, family, and even challenges overcome. A past that shaped my very being, my passions, my art & creativity.
And while the entertainment industry has many islands to land upon –either for short vacations or long stays– there is literally something for everyone. From music to dancing & singing to acting or media & fine arts — all unique on their own, sometimes devastatingly beautiful when combined. No matter which you choose, one thing is certain: some forms of entertainment ask to be consumed. Others asked to be noticed.
This is what draws me in the most — the way different forms of art provide for our souls. Emotionally. Mentally. Physically. No matter where I am in life, the hardships or struggles I’m facing at the time, even the joys I may be blessed with, I know without a doubt there is a story, a song, a show that will make me feel like everything fits for a moment.
What started with a friend lending me a boxset anime during a sleepover has grown into a lifelong practice of noticing, appreciating, and celebrating the stories and moments that quietly shape us. This is my way of saying thank you to every artist, company, and fan who has helped shape not only the worlds I’ve fallen in love with, but the hearts of all those within them.