By, Saffiyyah Alisha
PAGOH, 16 May 2025: SoulSync, a mental wellness programme organised by students of SCSH 3164 (Usrah in Action 2), Section 514, was designed to serve as a safe space for emotional healing and self-expression. Held over two days, the programme gathered 40 students from Kolej Vokasional Pagoh for an immersive journey of creativity, reflection, and connection. With activities rooted in art therapy and group challenges, SoulSync aimed to promote mental well-being and strengthen participants’ sense of self-worth. All modules were based on published research and delivered through interactive, hands-on experiences which aligned with IIUM’s Tawhidic Epistemology, which integrates revealed knowledge (naqli) with empirical understanding (aqli) to promote holistic human development.
The first evening introduced the Serenity Studio, an immersive art therapy workshop featuring three creative stations: colouring, origami, and bookmark making. Guided by facilitators, each station offered a calm and supportive environment for students to express emotions, relieve stress, and enhance focus and creativity. A key emotional highlight was the Heart-to-Heart session, which provided a safe space for participants to share personal experiences, traumas, and thoughts. Many took this rare opportunity to speak openly, resulting in emotional breakthroughs and a strong sense of solidarity. Some participants were visibly moved to tears as they listened to stories of struggle from peers, stories they had never expected to hear.
The second day began with a Breezewalk session, encouraging participants to reconnect with nature. The scenic surroundings of Kolej Vokasional Pagoh served as the ideal backdrop for mindfulness and reflection, allowing participants to appreciate the tranquillity of the natural environment as a manifestation of His perfect creation. This spiritual connection reflects the Tawhidic worldview, where every aspect of life including emotional and mental well-being is understood as part of our servitude to Allah SWT. The day continued with The Soul Quest Explorace, a dynamic six-checkpoint group activity combining physical movement with emotional exploration. The challenges, including gratitude storytelling, emotional puzzles, collaborative games, and self-affirmation exercises, fostered self-awareness, resilience, and peer support. Participants were actively engaged throughout the session, demonstrating teamwork and enthusiasm in completing every task.
As part of its sustainability efforts, the SoulSync team is preparing to publish a digital e-book documenting the programme’s methodology, activities, and participant reflections. This initiative aims to extend the programme’s impact, allowing it to be replicated or adapted for future mental health and well-being efforts thus embodying Ummatic Excellence by contributing to the well-being of society in line with Islamic values and social responsibility. The success of SoulSync was further recognised when it received the Gold Award and was named “Most Impactful Project,” at the 7th University in Action Symposium on 23 May 2025 in Pagoh Campus. This shows the affirmation of its emotional depth and long-term potential in supporting student well-being.
Through this initiative, the organising team hopes to contribute meaningfully to a culture of care, compassion, and emotional growth. By aligning with IIUM’s mission to produce balanced individuals who serve as agents of mercy (rahmatan lil ‘alamin), SoulSync exemplifies the integration of knowledge, faith, and action. May this small effort inspire lasting change for the benefit of future generations.***
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