ABA Alumni: "Pursuing My Creative Passion"

~ Aaliyah Wallenburgh, Class of 2024

Looking back at my time at ABA Oman International School, it’s hard to believe how much has changed since I graduated in 2024. Today, I’m living in the Netherlands, studying Creative Business at Breda University of Applied Sciences. But my passion for art, something that started long before I entered ABA, is what continues to fuel my journey.

Recently, I took a huge step and launched my own website - Aaliyah's Art Studio - where I sell my artwork. It’s an exciting new venture—my paintings, digital art, and mixed media pieces are now available to a global audience. Sharing my creations with the world is a dream come true, and I’m eager to see where it leads me. Beyond the art, I’m also looking for a part-time job in Breda, just to stay active, learn new things, and continue growing as a person.

Art has always been a big part of my life, but my time at ABA played a huge role in shaping who I am as an artist today. The International Baccalaureate (IB) program challenged me in ways I didn’t expect. It wasn’t just about balancing academics and creativity—it was about learning how to manage my time, explore my own ideas, and think critically about the world around me. The Visual Arts exhibition, in particular, stands out as one of my most defining moments. Creating and displaying a collection of artwork for the exhibition pushed me out of my comfort zone. It forced me to develop my own artistic voice, experiment with different mediums, and ultimately, gave me the confidence to share my work with others. That experience was a turning point for me.

One thing I loved most about ABA was the way it fostered creativity and critical thinking, especially through subjects like Visual Arts and English Language and Literature. These subjects encouraged me to think deeply about my work, to dig into my own thoughts and express them through different mediums. It was in Mr. Keys’ art class that I truly began to understand the deeper meaning behind my pieces. His guidance and feedback helped me not only grow technically but also conceptually. I learned how to communicate my ideas more clearly through art, and that’s something I carry with me today.

Another major influence in my life at ABA was Ms. Helou. She was my biggest cheerleader as I navigated the stress of university applications. She always believed in me, even when I doubted myself, and helped me find the right path for my future. I don’t think I’d be here today without her constant support and encouragement.

Outside the classroom, being part of ABA’s international community had a massive impact on me. I was surrounded by classmates from all over the world, each with their own stories and perspectives. That environment helped me become more open-minded and globally aware, qualities that continue to influence both my personal life and my art. I’m constantly inspired by the diversity of cultures and ideas I’ve been exposed to, and this has broadened my creative horizon in ways I never expected.

One of my favorite memories from ABA has to be the MESAC competition in Qatar, where I got to represent the school as part of the football team. That experience was incredible—not just because of the competition itself, but because it brought me closer to my teammates and gave me the chance to meet students from other schools. The energy, the school spirit, and the sense of camaraderie were unforgettable.

Now, as I look forward, my focus is on growing my art business and connecting with more people who resonate with my work. I’m constantly learning, experimenting with new techniques, and pushing myself to expand creatively. At the same time, I’m building my professional network within the art community and looking for opportunities to continue my education. I never want to stop learning, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next.

For current ABA students, my biggest piece of advice is to embrace every moment. The IB program is challenging, but it’s such a unique opportunity for growth—both academically and personally. Don’t be afraid to dive into new ideas and push yourself creatively. Take advantage of the incredible international community you’re part of, and don’t forget to enjoy the friendships you make along the way.

Even though I’ve moved on from ABA, I still feel connected to the community through the strong friendships I built during my time there. Whether we’re catching up on social media or meeting up in person when we can, those relationships continue to be a big part of my life. The experiences I had at ABA will always be a part of me, and I’m grateful for everything I learned during my time there.

As I move forward, I’m excited to keep exploring, learning, and creating. There’s so much I want to accomplish, and I’m grateful for the foundation ABA gave me to pursue my passion for art and creativity.