For Maleena, art has always been more than a passion. It has been a lifelong form of expression that eventually grew into a creative business through Inked by Hope, a local henna parlour that blends traditional artistry with contemporary designs.
Founded in 2018 while she was completing her studies at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Inked by Hope represents the 32-year-old’s journey of transforming her love for linework art into a creative career.
Image: Inked by Hope
A graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Creative Technology, Maleena has been drawn to creativity since childhood. Today, as the founder and owner of Inked by Hope, she leads a team of local Bruneian women from diverse creative backgrounds, including design, fine arts and performing arts.
“Art has always been part of me. I founded Inked by Hope towards the end of my university studies, turning that lifelong passion into a career,” she shared.
Before venturing into the henna industry, Maleena was a full-time student while working part-time at Poni Divers, where she also began exploring her love for the ocean and creative expression.
Finding inspiration in henna
The idea behind Inked by Hope came unexpectedly while Maleena was attending an expo.
“I came across a henna artist and it sparked an idea in my mind, especially when I thought about the wedding industry,” she said.
Image: Inked by Hope
With her background in linework art, henna felt like a natural extension of her creative abilities. However, she soon discovered that henna was an art form with its own techniques, cultural significance and meaning.
“As I continued my journey in the henna business, I developed a deeper appreciation and passion for this art form.”
Image: Inked by Hope
The name “Inked by Hope” itself carries a personal meaning. Inspired by the way henna leaves a stain on the skin and the artistic process resembling tattooing, Maleena wanted a name that reflected a modern approach to the craft.
The word “Hope” comes from the meaning of her name, Amal, which means hope in Arabic. “Combining these ideas created the name Inked by Hope,” she explained.
More than just henna
While henna remains at the heart of the business, Maleena describes Inked by Hope as a creative space that offers more than just henna services.
“We are first and foremost artists who provide henna services, but we are more than just that,” she said.
The team creates its own henna blends, develops original designs and explores different creative avenues. This passion for experimentation also led them to organise art classes, allowing others to experience and participate in their creative journey.
Image: Inked by Hope
“We are always learning, evolving and challenging ourselves as creatives. We love experiencing new things, exploring different art forms and sharing the journey along the way.”
For Maleena, henna is an art form that celebrates individuality and beauty.
“Henna is an adornment that highlights the beauty already within every woman who wears it. It is a way to express oneself, feel beautiful, empowered, confident and happy.”
Nature as a source of inspiration
Known for her organic style featuring realistic flowers and flowing vines, Maleena enjoys creating designs that naturally adapt to each individual.
Her inspiration comes largely from nature and the beauty found in Allah’s creations.
Image: Inked by Hope
“The details, patterns and beauty found in the natural world constantly inspire my designs,” she said.
While some clients come with their own ideas and references, others give her the creative freedom to design something unique.
Among her favourite creations are personalised bridal henna designs, where each piece reflects the personality and interests of the bride.
“Every bride has a different story, and I love creating something that represents them.”
A growing appreciation for henna art
Although henna is traditionally associated with weddings and festive celebrations, Maleena has noticed a growing interest among customers who embrace it as a form of fashion and self-expression.
“More people are embracing henna simply as part of fashion and self-expression, similar to how someone would get their nails done.”
At Inked by Hope, quality remains a key focus. The team uses natural pigments from henna leaves and Jagua fruit, with henna creating a copper-red stain while Jagua develops into a blue-black stain resembling a temporary tattoo.
Image: Inked by Hope
While the staining process takes time, Maleena believes patience and proper aftercare are essential in achieving the best results.
“We believe in treating people the way we would like to be treated, with care, proper attention and a pampering experience.”
Since its establishment, Inked by Hope has received positive responses from customers who appreciate its artistic approach, particularly the tattoo-inspired designs created using Jagua ink.
Some of Maleena’s most memorable experiences come from long bridal sessions, where she and her team become part of a bride’s special celebration.
Image: Inked by Hope
“We get to bond with the bride and family through good conversations and simply be part of their special wedding moments,” she said.
“Seeing how complete and happy clients feel after their henna session is the most rewarding part for us.”
Challenges, however, remain part of the journey. As a creative entrepreneur, Maleena said one of the biggest obstacles is changing perceptions towards the creative industry.
“Creative work is still not fully appreciated or supported. We often face pricing challenges and have to compete with cheaper alternatives, even though a great deal of skill, time and artistry goes into what we do.”
Despite this, she continues to improve her craft by learning new techniques, experimenting with different styles and drawing inspiration from fellow artists and nature.
“Every artist should always remain a student. While I appreciate trends, I don’t follow them blindly. I adapt what resonates with me while staying true to my own artistic style and values.”
Building a creative community
Looking back, one of Maleena’s proudest achievements is growing Inked by Hope while balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship.
“Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship hasn’t always been easy, and I couldn’t have done it without my team. They have been my village, believing in my leadership and standing by me through all the ups and downs.”
Image: Inked by Hope
Image: Inked by Hope
Moving forward, Inked by Hope aims to become more than a henna service provider by creating opportunities for artists to learn, grow and build sustainable creative careers.
The studio is also expanding its activities through workshops and creative sessions suitable for birthdays, bridal showers, corporate team-building activities and other special occasions.
Image: Inked by Hope
For aspiring henna artists and creatives hoping to turn their passion into a business, Maleena’s advice is simple.
“If it scares you, run towards it. Growth often comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone. Believe in your craft, keep learning and don’t be afraid to take the leap.”
With gratitude towards her team, clients, family and supporters, Maleena hopes Inked by Hope will continue inspiring creativity while bringing more artistic experiences to the community.
“Everything we have achieved is by the will of Allah. Bismillah, to more art-ventures ahead.”
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
