This is a huge!
A cosmetology teacher at Keningau Vocational College (KVC), Vienny Balakrishnan has been shortlisted for the prestigious 2025 Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards. She is the sole representative from Sabah and one of only four Malaysians recognised among 90 educators worldwide across nine global regions.
Now in her seventh year at KVC, the 32-year-old educator from Keningau has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for her students, many of whom come from underprivileged backgrounds. Her dedication goes far beyond the classroom; she regularly opens her home to students in need, offering meals, emotional support, and a safe space to thrive.
“I want to end poverty. I want everyone to have equal access to food, clothing and a place to call home,” said Vienny, reflecting on her mission to uplift lives through education and empathy.
Driven by both personal experiences and the hardships faced by her students, Vienny has pioneered innovative, eco-conscious approaches to teaching. She introduced the use of discarded materials to create beauty tools and products, empowering students to transform waste into award-winning creations. Among them: a beautician’s stool made from recycled materials that won a RM3,000 state-level prize, and foot scrubbers crafted from discarded corncobs that earned RM300 in recognition.
Beyond environmental awareness, these projects have inspired students to build sustainable social enterprises, merging entrepreneurship with a sense of purpose. “The beauty industry continues to thrive, but so does its waste. Turning that waste into something valuable is not just creative but it’s necessary,” she said.
Vienny’s impact resonated so deeply with her students that one of them, 20-year-old Jesslinda Had Kennedy, nominated her for the international award. “She made me believe I could help solve a global problem by starting with one small action at home,” Jesslinda shared.
KVC director Lumang Lang lauded Vienny’s contributions, noting how her values align with the Ministry of Education’s vision of producing not just skilled workers, but future changemakers.
“Every teacher has their strengths. I believe mine lies in innovating new products from waste, especially in the beauty industry,” said Vienny.
Despite her growing recognition, Vienny remains grounded. She finds joy in hiking, exploring local eateries, and spending time with her Shih Tzu-poodle mix. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: “One day at a time. But I know that every bit of effort matters.”
Congratulations and we’re rooting for you!
Source / Image Credit : asianews.network, TV Sabah