The lights dimmed, and a hush fell over the crowd as the opening notes of SERU, the much-anticipated horror theatrical show, resonated through the auditorium. The atmosphere was electric, filled with anticipation for an event that would blend the thrill of traditional Malay musical theatre with a spine-chilling twist. The success of SERU was no small feat; it was a testament to meticulous planning, boundless creativity, and unwavering dedication. Behind the scenes of this acclaimed production stood the driving force: Nurul Ain Binti Mohd Hairul, better known as Ain Hairul. At just 21 years old, Ain was not only a student at SEGi but a leader whose talent and passion for event planning had transformed the show into a celebrated spectacle.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as she settled into her favourite corner of the bustling SEGi student centre. Her fingers danced across her laptop keyboard, a whirlwind of deadlines and to-do lists swirling in her mind. This wasn’t your typical student, cramming for exams or scrolling through social media. This was Ain, a master of time management, a co-founder of the Malay Cultural Society (MCS), and a budding event planning extraordinaire.
A Journey of Passion and Perseverance at SEGi “It all started with a simple desire to get involved,” she recalls, her eyes sparkling with a hint of nostalgia. Joining the SEGi University Volunteering Community (SUVC) opened a world of opportunities, leading her to co-found the MCS with Hanisah Zuraili. “We were like pioneers, forging a new path,” she says, a hint of pride in her voice. From humble beginnings, MCS blossomed into a vibrant hub of cultural expression, hosting events that showcased the beauty and richness of Malay traditions.
From Showcase to Spectacle: The Art of Event Planning But it wasn’t always smooth sailing. “Imagine the chaos of organising a full-fledged Malaysian Showcase,” she laughs, “with dance performances, traditional food stalls, and hundreds of guests!” Yet, through meticulous planning, teamwork, and a healthy dose of resilience, she and her team consistently pulled off spectacular events, like the recent SERU showcase and Pesta Muda Mudi. Her journey wasn’t just about organising events; it was about personal growth. “I learned to be a leader, a communicator, and a problem-solver,” she reflects. “These skills transcend event planning; they’re life skills.” She credits her involvement in SUVC and MCS, taking on roles from Head of Hospitality to President, with developing these crucial abilities.
One particularly memorable experience was MASISWA 2024, a university-wide sports competition hosted by SEGi. “The energy was electric!” she exclaims. “Coordinating different sports, managing student volunteers, and witnessing the camaraderie between universities – it was an unforgettable experience.”
Finding the Balance: Academics and Extracurriculars at SEGi Her passion for event planning shines through as she describes the thrill of seeing a vision come to life. “From brainstorming ideas to witnessing the final product, it’s incredibly rewarding,” she shares. This passion was first ignited during the post-pandemic graduation ceremonies at SEGi, where she witnessed firsthand the magic of event planning. But amidst the excitement and achievements, she remains grounded. “My education is my foundation,” she emphasises. Her secret to academic success? “Focus in class,” she advises, “It minimises the need for frantic last-minute studying.” This strategy, coupled with disciplined study sessions, helped her excel in challenging courses like Food & Beverage Management, where the practical demands of running a restaurant pushed her to appreciate the complexities of the service industry.
Looking to the Future: Dreams and Aspirations of a SEGi Graduate Looking ahead, she envisions a career in event management, perhaps in the dynamic world of entertainment. “Imagine orchestrating concerts, or being part of its crew,” she says, her eyes gleaming with excitement. Alternatively, she dreams of a career in tourism, exploring new cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life. She believes her experiences at SEGi have laid the groundwork for a successful future.
The Power of Support: A Community of Inspiration at SEGi Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and a strong support system. “My family and friends have been my rock,” she acknowledges. “They’ve cheered me on every step of the way.” She emphasises the importance of this support system, especially when navigating the inevitable disagreements and stresses that arise during event planning. “We might have heated debates during meetings,” she explains, “but afterwards, it’s back to laughter and dinner with friends.”
To aspiring student leaders, she offers this advice: “Embrace challenges, seek out opportunities, and surround yourself with people who inspire you.” Her story is an inspiration, a reminder that with the right balance of passion and perseverance, the stage is set for success.