A shining light despite health woes
Entrepreneur still strives to motivate women to be self-reliant
MELAKA: Congenital defects, severe injury and nerve disorder have not deterred entrepreneur Nur Fadzliah Azizam from motivating other women to be financially independent.
The Terengganu-born 33-yearold is facing a very rare condition known as septate uterus, where the uterine cavity is partitioned by a septum, or wall; she also has only one kidney, which is larger than average.
She also has to cope with permanent back problems that limit her mobility, and was recently diagnosed with a serious nerve disorder.
However, her condition has not stopped her from travelling from one state to another, conducting motivational talks to encourage women to be self-reliant while balancing work and domestic responsibilities.
“I never realised I had such a condition (her septate uterus and single kidney) until I was 20 years old.
“My health deteriorated further after a serious road accident in 2010 which left me with permanent slipped disc,” she said when interviewed here yesterday.
Nur Fadzliah said she had to quit her job as a lecturer at a Terengganu university after the accident.
“Recently, I was diagnosed with a severe nerve disorder. I am discouraged from doing any strenuous tasks by doctors, as there is a high chance of being paralysed,” she said.
Nur Fadzliah said she is not ready to have a family of her own because of her health problems, and shied away from the topic of looking for Mr Right.
“I am more keen to empower women, especially from rural areas, with the right knowledge.
“I often share with them how my lifestyle took a 180-degree change because of my condition, but this has not discouraged me from inspiring others,” she said.
Nur Fadzliah said she gives free consultation on how to become a prosperous entrepreneur “by imparting my knowledge and experience”.
“I became a successful entrepreneur in just five years by venturing into the skills development business.
“This was with my health condition. I believe other more able-bodied women can do better than me,” she said.
Nur Fadzliah said she has conducted entrepreneurship skills training for some 1,500 women.