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For most people, walking away from a stable corporate career isn’t an easy decision.
But for Ajriya, it was something she knew she had to do, not because she didn’t appreciate what she had, but because something always felt missing.
Today, she runs her own beauty salon and works as a bridal makeup artist full-time, a path she once hesitated to take.
“Something felt off”
Ajriya’s career path wasn’t exactly what people would expect.
Despite holding a degree in chemical engineering, she didn’t end up in that field. Instead, she spent close to 10 years working in medical equipment sales, where her job involved visiting hospitals and assisting doctors.
While she found meaning in helping patients indirectly, she couldn’t shake off the feeling that her true passion wasn’t there.
That was when she started exploring something she genuinely loved beauty.
Starting small
Rather than quitting immediately, Ajriya chose a safer route. She began doing bridal makeup on the side, slowly building her portfolio and client base over time.
“I always had a plan, and I didn’t want to jump out of corporate life without a safety net,” she explained.
Like many, Ajriya struggled with doubts over whether it would work, how she could sustain herself, and whether leaving stability behind was the right move.
“I knew that if I didn’t try, I might never do it at all. So last year, I made the decision to walk away and pursue my passion full-time, even when it meant leaving a RM12,000 salary behind.”
Building a business with purpose
Today, Ajriya runs her own beauty salon on the weekdays while continuing her work as a bridal makeup artist on the weekends.
But her business isn’t just about beauty; it’s about awareness too.
“Having spent eight years in the bridal industry, I noticed that many brides don’t prioritise self-care before their big day.
“That inspired me to start a salon where I could not only provide services but also educate women on the importance of taking care of themselves regularly,” she said.
Ajriya also saw a gap in her community, where many women are often too busy with work or family to focus on themselves.
“I wanted to create a space where they can come and take care of themselves.”
Financially, the transition wasn’t easy.
Ajriya shared that she now earns around RM6,000 monthly from both her salon and bridal work, way lesser than what she made previously.
But despite the pay cut, she says she has no regrets as she gained something she didn’t have before—happiness and fulfilment.
“At my previous job, the stress, pressure, and lack of appreciation often took a toll on me. Now, I feel valued for the effort I put in.”
Handling criticism
Like many who step away from conventional paths, Ajriya faced her fair share of criticism, even from people around her.
But she made a conscious choice not to let it affect her.
“If you keep listening to others’ perceptions, you won’t grow. Instead, I focus on what truly matters, that is my own happiness and goals.
For those thinking of pursuing their passion, Ajriya doesn’t sugarcoat it.
“it’s only possible with proper planning. Start small. Build your foundation first. Don’t take unnecessary risks like large loans. And most importantly, don’t put your family or commitments at stake.
“Have a plan A and plan B. Don’t just jump without thinking. But at the same time, don’t take forever in making a decision either.”
Because sometimes, the only thing standing between you and your dream is the courage to start.
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