Panthers of ISKL #314: Jowina W. (‘29) - The Linguistic Panther
If I could give one piece of advice to anyone thinking of applying for the Pathways Scholarship, it’s this: never doubt yourself—just go for it. I spent a lot of time worrying about nothing. When you believe in yourself, confidence follows naturally.
Meet Jowina W. (‘29), a Grade 9 Pathways Scholar who joined ISKL in August 2025. She has settled in wonderfully to school life, embracing everything it has to offer, from its amazing learning environment to its diverse clubs and strong sportsmanship.
Applying for the ISKL Pathways Scholarship took courage and belief, but Jowina’s confidence was worth it when she was offered a place and already feels part of the kind, supportive, and loving ISKL community.
Here is Jowina’s story
Can you tell us more about yourself?
My name is Jowina, and I’m a new Grade 9 student here at ISKL.
I’m an only child and mixed-race, though most people don’t believe it when I tell them! My mother is Chinese, and my father is Liberian-American, but I was born and raised here in Kuala Lumpur.
I’m lucky to be able to speak multiple languages (English, Chinese, Malay, and Cantonese), which helps me connect with people from different backgrounds. I love cooking, staying active through sports and going to the gym, and, to be honest, I really enjoy my sleep too!
I’d say I’m a curious, driven person who’s always eager to learn new things, meet new people, and push myself to grow both inside and outside the classroom.
What encouraged you to join ISKL as a Pathways Scholar? What advice would you give someone thinking about applying for the scholarship?
The first time I stepped foot in ISKL was through community sports. I remember thinking that any student would be lucky to spend their school days here. As I kept attending weekly, I felt more and more like I belonged. When I discovered the Pathway Scholarship on ISKL’s website, I knew I had to try.
What inspired me most was ISKL’s amazing learning environment, diverse clubs, and strong sense of sportsmanship, and because I couldn’t see a future for myself at my old school. I spent a whole year hoping and praying I’d get in. From the very first moment I saw ISKL, I knew life would be a hundred times better here, and it truly is.
If I could give one piece of advice to anyone thinking of applying for the scholarship, it’s this: never doubt yourself—just go for it. I spent so much time worrying about nothing. When you believe in yourself, confidence follows naturally. I remember walking into my interview without an ounce of nervousness.
So hold your head high and lead with confidence. Whether you get in or not doesn’t define you; believing in yourself does.
How has the transition into ISKL been for you?
It has been amazing! Luckily, I knew some people at ISKL before attending, so it was nice to know there would be familiar faces.
In the classroom, I’ve made friends with almost everyone. Both the teachers and students have been incredibly kind and welcoming. From the very beginning, I felt like I truly belonged. It’s a wonderful feeling to be part of such a kind, supportive, and loving community.
Please share with us your interests and successes so far. What inspires you most, and what would you consider to be your aptitude?
I’ve always been deeply interested in business and investment. I’m fascinated by how money works, how businesses grow, and how strategic decisions can create long-term success. Even though I’m still in High School, I’ve already mapped out my future path, and I hope to become both an investor and a business owner.
What inspires me most is the idea of using success to make a difference. I want to build something that not only achieves financial growth but also helps others, such as funding charities or creating shelters for people in need. I would consider my greatest aptitude to be my determination and forward-thinking mindset. Once I set a goal, I stay focused and work hard toward it, because I believe success is most meaningful when it creates positive change for others.
What motivates you to succeed in this field?
What motivates me to succeed in this field is the balance between challenge and impact. I’m driven by the idea that every decision in business and investment can create real opportunities, not just for personal success, but for others, too. I love the process of learning how to grow ideas, take risks, and turn effort into results.
Beyond that, my biggest motivation is the possibility of giving back. I want to use what I achieve to help people by funding charities, creating shelters, or supporting communities in need. Knowing that my success could one day make a difference in someone else’s life pushes me to keep learning, improving, and never giving up.
Who are your role models? And who influences you?
My mother inspires me more than anyone else. Her independence and strength motivate me to become just as strong and resilient. Because of her, I’ve learned to do many things on my own and to face challenges with confidence rather than fear.
Growing up, I used to care too much about what others thought of me. But my mom always reminded me, “It’s your life, you live it for yourself, not for anyone else.” Those words have stayed with me and shaped how I see myself today. I’ve learned to stay true to who I am, regardless of what others think.
I’ve also been fortunate to have positive influences around me. My friends inspire me in the best ways. They’ve shown me what genuine friendship looks like and taught me to respect myself. Whenever I hesitate or overthink, they encourage me to go for it, even if it means failing. I’m truly grateful to be surrounded by such supportive and uplifting people.
Do you participate in any co-curricular activities?
Yes, I do! Even though it’s only been a little over a month since school started, I’ve already joined several clubs, and I’m loving the experience so far. I’m currently part of the Key Club, Young Investors Society (YIS), and High School Dance Co. Each club gives me the chance to explore different sides of myself, from leadership and public speaking to creativity and finance.
I’m also planning to join more clubs in the future as I continue to explore new interests and passions. So far, I’ve learned a lot in such a short amount of time, and it’s been a great way to meet new friends, build connections, and feel more at home at ISKL.
What are your thoughts on your future career path and future goals?
I'm passionate about pursuing a future in business and investment. I’m inspired by how strategic thinking and determination can turn ideas into success. My goal is to become both an investor and a business owner, creating opportunities that benefit others as well.
In the long term, I hope to use my success to give back by supporting charities, building shelters, and helping those in need. I see my career not just as a path to personal growth, but as a way to create meaningful impact and positive change.
What is your most memorable moment at ISKL so far?
My most memorable moment at ISKL so far was our game at Dalat International School. The boys’ and girls’ Junior Varsity teams traveled over six hours by bus to Penang, and the journey itself was just as fun as the game. We played music, shared snacks, laughed, and bonded the entire way there. I roomed with my teammate Anne, and we had such a great time together. From late-night talks to getting ready for our matches, it was an experience I’ll never forget.
Dinner with everyone that evening was another highlight. There was so much laughter and team spirit in the air; it really felt like we were one big family. My digital camera captured so many special moments, the kind that instantly take me back whenever I look at them. That trip wasn’t just about the game; it was about connection, teamwork, and creating memories I’ll treasure for a long time.
Share which Panther superlative best describes you and how it shows your Panther spirit!
I’m the most Onz Panther (Onz means nothing is impossible) because I’ve faced moments that made me question my strength, but I never gave up. I believe that love and passion can turn pain into purpose. Nothing is impossible if you truly want it.
Tell us why ISKL is special to you.
ISKL is special to me because it’s a place I genuinely look forward to coming to every day. I believe that just by being here, I can achieve something, whether it’s learning something new or growing as a person beyond academics. I’m surrounded by people who believe in me and what I’m capable of, and that alone inspires me to become a better version of myself every day.
I Suka (Like) ISKL because ….
I Suka ISKL because it makes me feel like my dreams matter. The teachers and community here don’t just teach us. They guide us to discover who we want to be. I know that everything I’m learning here is shaping me for the future I’m building.
What does the ISKL vision ‘Know yourself, care for all and create a better world” mean to you?
To me, this means leading everything with love. When you truly love, you learn to prioritize yourself, not out of selfishness, but out of respect. You begin to understand who you are, embracing both your strengths and your flaws. Self-love becomes the foundation for self-awareness. From that place of love, you become capable of caring for others. When life is led by judgment or fear, it's difficult to care deeply even for those closest to you, let alone for the wider world. But when love leads, compassion follows naturally.
Love enables us to create a healthier, safer world. So many people live with anger and fear, unaware that love is a choice, just like fear is. We were created through love, and love truly has the power to conquer all. So why not choose love? Why not lead with care, compassion, and understanding?
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff member who always has an anecdote to tell, loves to share some insights into their passions and interests, 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.