makchic IRL: The Reset was designed as an extension of makchic’s Returnship Programme, creating a dedicated space for women to pause, reflect, and regain confidence as they navigate the different seasons of their lives.
A gathering of diverse women
Held on Friday, 7th November 2025 at the stylish, light-filled KLoé Hotel, this half-day programme brought together close to 50 women from a wide range of backgrounds — from academics and medical professionals. to entrepreneurs, creatives and stay-at-home mothers planning a return to the workforce. What united them was a shared desire for connection, clarity and community support.
Finding your path
The event opened with Nurture and Navigate, a panel session featuring makchic’s CEO, Liyana Taff, social entrepreneur and advocate, Vatsala Nair Manoharan, and Executive Director of Ratio:Cause, New Su Shern, moderated by Kimberly Lee, makchic’s Managing Editor.
Moderator Kimberly skillfully guided the discussion, drawing out the panelists’ personal stories and experiences to show that every woman can chart their own path, no matter how different their journeys. Vatsala delivered a powerful message about the importance of knowing one’s rights and equipping oneself with financial knowledge, informed by her own personal experience with domestic abuse. This blended seamlessly with New Su Shern’s inspiring story of discovering a strong sense of purpose at a young age, having founded an NGO at just 19. Liyana shared her motherhood wisdom, encouraging women not to sweat the small stuff and to embrace imperfections instead. Together, the panel reinforced a central theme: that resetting yourself does not mean losing the essence of who you are.
A participant captured the heart of the discussion:
“I can reset my life at any time — career or personal. If they can do it, I can do it too.”
From finances to style: Empowerment in action
The day continued with three expert-led sessions focused on pillars that support a woman’s overall well-being: financial literacy, lifestyle health and personal style.
• Financial literacy: Consultant Kho Min Jee introduced the concept of financial personality types and offered practical steps for women taking charge of their finances.
• Balanced living: Health advocate Huda Ameran shared simple, achievable habits — from morning sun exposure to mindful movement — that make self-care feel realistic and accessible.
• Personal style: Image consultant Ummi Nasir guided participants through colour analysis with humour and energy, debunking common myths (including the ever-popular “black suits everyone”) and highlighting how colour can influence confidence.
Moments of connection and laughter
Despite the full agenda, participants had plenty of opportunities to connect — whether through a Bingo-inspired networking activity or over lunch catered by Picha Eats, enjoyed against the sweeping views of the KL skyline.
The event’s thoughtfully curated goody bags were also a highlight, featuring contributions from Bila Bila Mart, Focus Food, OiYo by Montigo, Aina Collective, SO.LEK, amazin’ graze, La Juiceria, E’lioe, Alchemy Studio Asia, CzipLee, Frenche Roast and Defy Training. Many attendees remarked on the quality and usefulness of the items.
The event wrapped up at 3.00pm, with participants staying on for photos, conversations and reflections. Feedback from the post-event survey was overwhelmingly positive, with thoughtful suggestions for future sessions and plenty of encouragement. One response summed up the spirit of The Reset:
“Women can do anything if we set our minds to it. The first step is awareness.”
With its meaningful conversations, practical guidance and strong sense of community, makchic IRL: The Reset stands as an important milestone in makchic’s ongoing work to support and empower women at every stage of their journeys.
