Inspired by nostalgic childhood memories and a deep desire to spread kindness, Ezza transformed her passion for hand-drawn art into ‘Ezza Made This’, a brand that crafts stationery and lifestyle products infused with a whimsical touch.
At the heart of the brand is Ezza herself, a graphic designer, illustrator, and founder who describes herself as a “creative dreamer” and small business owner.
Though her designs often feature soft pink pastels and playful motifs, her vision runs deeper. She is driven by a heartfelt mission to create products that feel like small acts of kindness.
“I have always loved making cute, thoughtful things and over time I realised many women around me were also longing for that sense of play, healing, and self-love,” she shared in an interview with The Bruneian.
“That is when I knew I wanted to create something more personal, something that felt like a warm hug for the soul.”
Whether it is a sticker with kind words or an illustrated calendar filled with quiet reminders, each piece is designed to offer connection, not just aesthetically, but emotionally.
“It felt like my personal signature. It was important to me that people knew this wasn’t mass-produced or rushed. Every item is something I truly poured myself into.”
Over time, Ezza began building a brand identity that resonated with people who, like her, appreciated thoughtful design and emotional storytelling. Her work has since grown into a well-known brand that not only offers aesthetically pleasing products but also gives people something they can emotionally connect with.
Turning personal healing and creativity into art
For Ezza, creativity often begins with a feeling. It might be a phrase that echoes in her mind, a nostalgic moment, or a quiet emotion that she wants to capture. The ideas are first sketched in her journal before being developed into digital illustrations and transformed into products such as planners, notepads, stickers and more.
“Sometimes it’s just something I wish someone had told me during a hard time. Other times, it comes from a conversation with a friend, or from reflecting on my own mental health journey,” she shared.
Much of her inspiration also comes from observing everyday life — from window shopping and scrolling online, to travelling and reconnecting with the comforting memories of childhood.
Her designs often feature soft lines, pastel colours, playful icons and gentle affirmations. But more than the visual appeal, what truly makes her work special is its emotional resonance.
“I try to keep the message clear, gentle and honest. I want the people who use my products to feel seen and comforted.”
According to the creativepreneur, one of her most popular products is her annual illustrated calendar, a fan favourite that has sold out multiple times.
Each month features whimsical artwork paired with an encouraging phrase like “you’re allowed to rest” or “dream at your own pace.” These gentle affirmations are meant to offer comfort and motivation throughout the year.
“People have shared how the calendar helped them through difficult days. It’s incredibly humbling to know that something I made could have that kind of impact,” she said.
Another standout creation was her 2024 planner, which took inspiration from the vibrant spirit of late 1990s and early 2000s pop culture. It drew from girl power, dreamy gadgets, playful fashion and nostalgic childhood toys, infused with themes of self-love, manifesting and emotional healing.
“It felt like I was reconnecting with the younger version of myself,” she proudly shared.
“I wanted women who grew up in that era to feel seen, understood and inspired,” she added.
The planner quickly became a hit at pop-up events and online, sparking conversations among customers who recognised familiar elements from their own childhoods. Many expressed how meaningful it was to see their stories and memories reflected in her work.
The creativepreneur shared that every business presents its own challenges; something that she is currently still learning.
As a one-woman brand, Ezza handles everything from ideation and illustration to packaging and customer engagement. It is a balancing act between artistic creativity and business management, which she has slowly learned to navigate.
“One of the biggest challenges has been visibility. Brunei is a small market, and not everyone understands the value or the process behind handmade design,” she explained.
Despite the challenges, she believes each struggle has helped her become more resourceful and resilient. She now sets boundaries in her workday, allocating specific times for creative flow and others for operational tasks.
“Creativity gives the brand its soul, but the business side is what keeps it going. I have to honour both,” she shared.
Community, collaboration and connection
One of the things Ezza is most grateful for is the support of Brunei’s local creative community. Over the years, she has connected with fellow makers, small business owners and artists through online spaces, pop-up events and art markets.
“The creative community here may be small, but it is incredibly warm and supportive. There’s a genuine spirit of encouragement, and I’ve met so many kind-hearted people along the way,” she shared.
She has also had the chance to work on custom projects and collaborations that hold deep meaning. One standout memory was a set of bookmarks created for a mental health advocate’s support group, filled with words of comfort and hope.
“It meant a lot to be part of something with real impact. I love that design can serve a purpose beyond aesthetics – that it can actually help someone feel safe and understood.”
When choosing collaborators, Ezza looks for shared values, mutual respect and genuine enthusiasm. For her, good partnerships are built on more than just branding, they are built on belief in the message.
As Ezza Made This continues to grow, Ezza is now exploring new ways to expand the emotional connection behind her work.
She is currently working on a mental health-focused collection, and brainstorming interactive offerings such as digital kits, printable affirmations and potentially even community workshops.
“I want to create more opportunities for people to connect with themselves, and with each other, through creativity.”
One of her biggest dreams is to collaborate with larger lifestyle or wellness brands, and to eventually share her work with a global audience.
“The messages behind my products – kindness, healing, softness – are universal. I believe they can speak to women everywhere.”
When asked what keeps her going during tough times, Ezza reflects on the messages she receives from customers.
“Some people tell me that a sticker or a planner helped them get through the day. Others say it made them feel less alone. That means the world to me. That is why I keep doing this,” she concluded.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
