Panthers of ISKL #322: Susie Fisher - The Creatively Resourceful Panther
The most enjoyable part is seeing students’ eyes light up when they try on the costumes we’ve created for them for the first time. I also love working with the amazing Bobbins.
Meet Susie Fisher, the lead behind ISKL’s costume design for productions throughout Elementary, Middle, and High School. Together with a wonderful parent volunteer team, The ISKL Bobbins, they have a visionary concept that translates onto the stage, bringing each show alive through their beautiful creations.
Here is Susie’s story
Please tell us more about yourself:
I was born and raised in England and have lived in Spain, Belgium, the United States, and Romania for a short time. Before settling in Malaysia, my husband and I spent a few years backpacking, both on our own and later with our children when they were very young.
When did you join ISKL, and what year groups were your children in? What year groups are they now in?
We joined ISKL nearly seven years ago when my children were in Grade 4 and 6. They are now in Grades 12 and 10.
Can you tell us more about how you support ISKL as a parent? What are your commitments throughout the year? Tell us about how you got involved in your support of ISKL and what this means to you.
Throughout the year, I design and plan costumes for the High School, Middle School, and Elementary productions, manage the costume room, and lead our wonderful volunteer team, The ISKL Bobbins.
I first got involved after responding to a call for help on Shrek. It was meant to be just one show, but it went well, and I was asked to stay on. I’ve been here ever since.
What is the most enjoyable and most challenging part of your support role?
The most enjoyable part is seeing students’ eyes light up when they try on the costumes we’ve created for them for the first time. I also love working with the amazing Bobbins. The shows run back-to-back, so we are often working on all three at the same time. It’s an organizational jigsaw, but somehow it all comes together. It’s a huge team effort.
Can you tell us more about your hobbies and interests? What do you do after work?
In my free time, I love exploring thrift shops for hidden treasures and upcycling them into new pieces, such as earrings or other brightly colored jewellery. I also enjoy going out for dinner with family and friends and simply spending quality time with them.
Who or what inspires you?
I’m inspired by the Bobbins, who return month after month, year after year, to volunteer their time. They take on a lot of work and create beautiful costumes with warmth, dedication, and strength. I’m also inspired by the students, who give so much of their time and energy to participate in a show while juggling many other responsibilities. Their bravery to stand on stage and share themselves with the world is truly admirable.
What is your most memorable moment so far working at ISKL?
Normally, during shows, I’m backstage helping students with quick changes, fixing costumes, and making sure everything is in place before the actors go on stage. On the last show, I got to sit in the audience and see all the hard work come together—tech, lighting, sound, set, costumes, acting, singing, and dancing. I love it. Every show is memorable, and I’m constantly making new, wonderful memories. I’m already looking forward to the next one, Nemo.
Which Panther superlative best describes 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 like finding ways to make things work, even when my ideas raise a few eyebrows in the costume room. We figure it out together, and it’s easy to believe nothing is impossible with such a great team.
Tell us why ISKL is special to you:
ISKL is special to me because of the sense of community, the kindness that’s shown every day, and the friendships I’ve formed. The students and colleagues here make it such a welcoming and inspiring place.
I Suka (Like) ISKL because ….
I Suka (Like) ISKL because it gives students the chance to discover who they are and reach their full potential, with opportunities that help them grow. Thanks to the supportive environment at ISKL, I’ve watched my own children gain confidence and become strong, capable young women with powerful voices, ready to take on the world
What does “Know yourself, care for all, and create a better world” mean to you?
To me, “Know yourself, care for all, and create a better world” means understanding who you are, treating others with empathy and respect, and remembering that even a smile or a kind word can make a difference.
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.