Finding Confidence Beyond Comfort Zones

Date published:

15 April 2026

Written by:

Erviera Syahnaz Maryam Lovienta

Leaving Indonesia at a young age was not easy. I still remember the mix of excitement and fear when I first moved to Malaysia. I chose Sunway because I wanted to step outside my comfort zone. It was not too far from home, yet far enough to help me grow.

My time at Sunway shaped me in ways I did not fully understand at the time. Living and studying away from home meant that I had to be independent earlier than many of my friends back in Indonesia. I learned how to speak up in class, defend my ideas, and build friendships across cultures. By the time I transitioned to Sunway University, I was not only academically prepared but also emotionally stronger and more self-aware.

Being an international student also teaches you humility. You quickly realise that you are not the only smart person in the room. You have to work harder, adapt faster, and sometimes explain yourself twice. There were nights when I felt homesick, especially during important family moments. However, those moments built resilience. I learned how to sit with discomfort and turn it into motivation.

Malaysia’s diversity also shaped me deeply. Being surrounded by different races, religions, and perspectives expanded my worldview. Today, working in Public Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility at one of Indonesia’s state-owned enterprises, I realise that my ability to understand diverse stakeholders began during my university years.

Leadership experiences during my time at Sunway were defining chapters of my growth. While on campus, leading the marketing team and heading the events department for my projects meant that I was not just participating but carrying responsibility. I was responsible for people, deadlines, and outcomes. I made mistakes along the way, yet those moments taught me how to manage conflict and collaborate with others. I also learned that leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room, but about listening and empowering others.

One experience that stayed close to my heart was the be’YOU’tiful campaign, which focused on confidence and self-worth. It reminded me that communication has the power not only to promote events but also to uplift people. That realisation later shaped my interest in the communications field.

Challenging myself continued beyond campus. Representing West Sumatra and being named Top 11 in the Puteri Indonesia competition was a surreal moment. For me, it was never just about beauty but about representation. I wanted to show that Indonesian women can be global, educated, articulate, and still deeply connected to their culture. Receiving an Honourable Mention from UN Women at the Asia International Model United Nations Conference also meant a great deal to me, as it affirmed my passion for women empowerment and policy discussions.

Scholarships played an important role in shaping how I saw myself. The Sunway Continuing Scholarship felt like trust. It was the institution saying that they believed in me. That belief encouraged me to aim higher and later pursue my Master’s degree.

Looking back, resilience, curiosity, and courage guided many of the milestones in my life. One piece of advice I often share is simple: do not wait until you feel ready. You will never feel completely ready. Say yes to opportunities that challenge you. Every experience builds confidence in ways you may not immediately realise. Most importantly, stay rooted in who you are. Your identity, culture, and values are not limitations. They are your strength.