Sofia Nurkeisha and Her Journey of Confidence

Sofia Nurkeisha has achieved more than she expected when she first came to DAS. She has taken centre stage at DAS events and returned as a featured singer at Gift of Wonders for the second time, continuing to grow as a confident, expressive performer. Each performance marks a meaningful step in her singing journey and reflects how far she has come in believing in herself.

Facing Early Challenges with Confidence

Like many learners with dyslexia, she struggled with reading and spelling. These challenges also negatively impacted her confidence. Words did not come easily, and expressing herself often felt overwhelming. Through the right support, patient guidance, and structured learning strategies, she slowly built confidence in her academic abilities. As reading became more manageable, so did her belief in herself. DAS gave her the reassurance that she was capable and able to grow at her own pace.

Carrying Her Strength onto The Stage

This growing confidence soon carried over into another important part of her life: singing. Music had always been something Sofia enjoyed, so as her self-belief strengthened, her voice did too. Singing became a space for her to stand proudly in front of others. The confidence she gained through learning at DAS translated directly into how she performed on stage.

DAS also provided Sofia with opportunities to be heard. Sofia has performed at the SICC May Day Charity Dinner and twice at the DAS Student Talent Showcase Gift of Wonders. These experiences helped her to step out of her comfort zone.

Sofia’s growth has not gone unnoticed at home. Her mother told DAS how much more confident Sofia had become, and thanks her educational therapist for guiding her this far.

Along with her message, she sent a photo of two trophies Sofia had won at her school’s talent show, a proud moment that reflected both Sofia’s progress and the confidence she now carries with her.

Confidence That Continues to Grow

Today, Sofia’s journey is a powerful reminder that confidence can change everything. With the right support, challenges can become stepping stones, and quiet determination can grow into a voice that is ready to be shared. Through DAS, Sofia did not just learn to read with greater confidence. She learned to believe in herself, and that belief continues to guide her every time she steps onto the stage.

Find out more about our Main Literacy Programme here!