Panthers of ISKL #304: Xinti L. (‘27) - The Resilient Panther
I love reaching for the stars, even when people tell me not to, because I’m someone who has big dreams for my future. I’m grateful for this part of who I am, because so far it has carried me far—and I hope to keep it up.
Meet Xinti L. (‘27), a Malaysian G11 student who embodies a spirit of determination and resilience that's taking her far, from the basketball court to the film set.
This aspiring filmmaker and co-founder of HS Service Learning Club, the Thrift Collective, is a shining example of a student who not only embraces the ISKL community but actively works to make it a better, more sustainable place.
Here is Xinti’s story:
Can you tell us more about yourself?
My name is Xinti and I'm 16. My family and I are Chinese-Malaysian, and I’ve lived in Kuala Lumpur since I was 5. Ever since I was a child, I have attended local schools. That was until I joined ISKL in Grade 9.
Please tell us more about your participation in IASAS Film and Film in general - what are you working on right now, and what are you most proud of?
I was selected as an IASAS Film delegate in 2024, and it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I built friendships with students from all IASAS schools and attended workshops led by industry professionals, which greatly expanded my filmmaking knowledge and gave me invaluable hands-on experience.
Currently, my friends and I are working on a new film that we plan to submit for IASAS. I really hope we get selected, as the last festival was unforgettable. I haven’t yet decided which film I’m most proud of, since I haven’t found a favorite—but hopefully, one day, I will.
Can you tell us more about the Thrift Society Club? We understand you created this club with another student.
I created the Thrift Collective with my close friend, Amanda. Our club encourages students to contribute to sustainable fashion by advertising the reuse and recycling of clothing within the ISKL community.
By organizing thrift events, clothing swaps, and awareness campaigns, we intend to reduce the amount of waste created, motivate mindful consumption, and make fashion more convenient for everyone.
Please describe what co-curricular activities you take part in at ISKL.
I have participated in both IASAS basketball and golf, and both were absolutely amazing. I’ve made so many new friends, both from and outside of ISKL, thanks to these events. Not only do I get to play the sports I love, but I also get to have fun with my teammates, who I love dearly, and make long-lasting memories.
Who or what inspires you or has influenced you?
Amanda V.D. (‘27), with whom I co-founded the Thrift Collective, has been a major source of inspiration for me. I first met Amanda through golf, and I’ll always be grateful that our friendship grew from there. She inspires me through her kindness, care for others, and her ability to brighten any room with her positivity. Amanda has not only motivated me to be a better person but has also inspired me to work toward making our school a better place.
What are your plans after you graduate from ISKL?
After I graduate from ISKL, I hope to attend a university in the UK, although I’m still undecided about which school. I’m also open to exploring options around the world, as I haven’t yet chosen a specific major and hope to figure that out soon. What I do know is that I want to continue pursuing filmmaking, since it’s a passion I never want to lose.
Beyond academics, I also hope to travel the world with my family and friends, creating new experiences and memories along the way. My main plan is not to lose my High School friends because I love them!
Which Panther are you?
🐾 The Most Onz Panther – (Onz means nothing is impossible)
Share why you chose this superlative and how it shows your Panther spirit!
I’m the Most Onz Panther because I am determined and resilient. I love reaching for the stars, even when people tell me not to, because I’m someone who has big dreams for my future. I’m grateful for this part of who I am, because so far it has carried me far—and I hope to keep it up :)
Tell us why ISKL is special to you:
I Suka (Like) ISKL because the community here is unlike any other school I’ve experienced. Everyone and everything seems to feel so interconnected, creating a supportive and meaningful environment. The people here are truly awesome—I love my friends, and I love my teachers too.
What does ISKL’s vision, “Know yourself, care for all and create a better world,” mean to you?
To me, it means understanding yourself in a way that allows you to feel secure and confident, while truly knowing who you are—because identity is important.
Care for All reminds me of the responsibility to contribute to our already caring environment by showing kindness to everyone. Ultimately, this value can make a meaningful difference in building a stronger, more compassionate community and world.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff member who always have an anecdote to tell, love to share some insights into their passions and interest, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.