Marva Sohail

“Growing up in a military family meant constantly moving, adapting, and learning to begin again. Through every change, books, poetry, and an endless curiosity about people and the world became my anchors.

That curiosity led me to psychology and research. Today, as a PhD student at Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Business, I explore workplace wellbeing and quality of working life. Graduating at the top of my postgraduate cohort was a milestone, but what matters most is using knowledge to make a difference and help create healthier, more humane workplaces.

Looking back, I realise that the very traits I once questioned – asking too many questions, thinking deeply, and looking beyond the obvious – have become my greatest strengths. What others might have called having my “head in the clouds” became the foundation of my research journey.

At Curtin, I’ve learned that belonging isn’t always about finding a place to stay. Sometimes, it’s about finding a purpose that helps you grow. The qualities we once doubted may be the very ones that lead us to where we belong.”- Marva Sohail, PhD student

1 November 2026