In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Malaysia, Sabronzo radiates in Swarovski’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection for our NEW GEN May 2024 issue.
I have always wondered how it feels to be part of a phenomenon, or better yet, a rising girl group. I’m sure that what makes them so iconic today are the dynamic anthems that have allowed them to remain significant in pop culture.
As millennials, we grew up with the world of iconic stars, including Spice Girls, Destiny’s Child, Danity Kane, Pussycat Dolls, and the list goes on. Then came the success behind the K-pop phenomenon, like Girls’ Generation, Blackpink, NewJeans, and TWICE. With the rise of iconic girl groups, Malaysia has its very own rising stars, and their name is DOLLA.
Hopping on the tallest, fastest, and most exhilarating rollercoaster – that’s how one member of the renowned Malaysian girl group DOLLA describes her journey to stardom. From dreaming big as a little girl in Malaysia to living that dream today, this young woman has overcome challenges, embraced her uniqueness, and inspired others along the way.
View this post on Instagram
Sabronzo, or Sabrina Rusli as she’s also known, stands out among the crowd of aspiring stars. As a member of the influential girl group of our time, Sabronzo has been making a name for herself alongside her partners in crime, Angel and Tabby. With multiple hit singles such as “Watch Me Glow”, “DAMELO” and “CLASSIC”, it was their buzzing pop-hop tunes and dynamic dance routines that got the crowd craving for more.
Kicking off our cover shoot bright and early, Sabronzo walked through the doors, radiating positive energy that trickled into the atmosphere. Her bold and confident aura was on display during the shoot, making it clear why she had become such an inspiration and a pop sensation to the youth of today’s generation. Diffusing a glow like no other, Sabronzo was decked in sparkling companions by Swarovski, which radiates so effortlessly against the sophisticated-meets-edgy wardrobe.
Introducing Sabronzo
Jewellery by Swarovski
For Sabronzo, the path to becoming a music sensation was paved long before her DOLLA debut. In high school, she immersed herself in the arts, whether dance or theatre. Yet, she also harboured a love for sports, dedicating a portion of her time to tennis. This fusion of athleticism and creativity has been instrumental in shaping Sabronzo into the person she is today.
She expressed, “As a little girl, I always dreamed big about joining a girl group and performing on stage.” Growing up in Malaysia, that dream seemed far-fetched for the superstar, but that did not stop her from chasing it. “And now, after all those years, here I am living that dream today. It still feels surreal,” she continues.
It’s not just Sabronzo’s talents that have made her a compelling figure in the local music scene. It’s also her charisma, positive energy, and commitment to being a role model.
On Being A Role Model
Jewellery by Swarovski
Her journey and dedication to being a positive influence serve as a beacon of inspiration for young women, empowering them to chase their dreams. For Sabronzo, being seen as a role model for other girls is one of the world’s most humbling and empowering feelings. She strives to be authentic, showing girls it’s okay to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their passions. “It’s not just about glamour; it’s about resilience, overcoming challenges, and supporting each other,” she says.
From an early age, Sabronzo has always envisioned herself as a performer. “I remember growing up and looking up to singers and performers who inspired me to chase my dreams, so knowing that I have the chance to do the same for other girls out there is just incredible,” she shares excitedly.
View this post on Instagram
Finding Fame with DOLLA
When asked about her journey in DOLLA, Sabronzo explains, “Every high gets my heart racing, and every low feels like a drop in my stomach. Sometimes it all flies by so fast, I’m scared to even blink. But along the way, I’m making memories to last a lifetime and meeting awesome people from all walks of life.”
With the success behind their 2023 debut album, “The New Classic”, it’s clear that there’s no signs of them slowing down.
“We’ve got some super exciting ideas for our upcoming songs and projects that we’re just itching to share!” she exclaims. As the ladies of DOLLA grow and change, their music does too. Their sound and style have evolved over the years, and they’re always pushing themselves to new heights.
Jewellery by Swarovski
Having a successful career in the entertainment field is not a walk in the park. Preparing for a big show involves rigorous rehearsals for vocals, choreography, and overall performance quality. Artists spend hours perfecting their routines, ensuring synchronisation and stage presence. For DOLLA, the hours they put in their performances showcase gracefully when they’re on stage. Alongside vocal warm-ups, the group focuses on mental preparation while visualising success, and supporting each other to deliver a captivating performance for their audience.
With chart-topping releases and performances, they’ve also made their mark in China by putting Malaysia on the map with their debut as guest performers on the reality show, ‘Show It All China.’
“It was truly an honour for DOLLA to represent Malaysia on Show It All China. From EXO’s Lay Zhang and the trainee girls to the production team and crew, everyone went out of their way to ensure our comfort and provide everything we needed for an unforgettable performance on the ‘Show It All’ stage,” Sabronzo recalls, reflecting on their experience abroad.
Jewellery by Swarovski
Finding Her Style
When it comes to fashion, she loves to accessorise her everyday wardrobe with rings, earrings, and necklaces. The one piece that caught Sabronzo’s eyes from the Swarovski Spring/Summer 2024 collection is the Idyllia watch – a versatile piece that adds a touch of luxury during the day and becomes a glamorous statement piece at night, effortlessly elevating any outfit.
Expressing her curiosity and excitement about the SS24 collection, she shares, “I would style the timeless collection with a tailored suit or casual chic attire while evoking a perfect balance of smart and classy at the same time.”
Jewellery by Swarovski
But it’s not just about the glitz and glam. She also cherishes a special gift from her mother at the beginning of her DOLLA career—the beautiful Swarovski Nova ballpoint pen. The story behind this revolves around her mother’s thoughtful intention that one day, if the opportunity arose, Sabronzo would be prepared to sign autographs. It was a gesture of her support and belief in her daughter’s dreams.
With Mother’s Day around the corner, she also confessed that the Hyperbola Cuff from the Infinity collection would be the perfect gift for her mother. “My mother is a classy yet minimal lady, which makes this piece a perfect representation of her,” she continues to share.
A Mother’s Love
Having a support system to cheer her on throughout her rollercoaster journey has been valuable to her growing success. “My mother’s invaluable advice to me has been to maintain a forward-thinking perspective and to constantly believe in myself,” she recalls.
“My mother has always emphasised the significance of focusing on the future rather than dwelling on the past, where our ability to effect change is limited. Her consistent reinforcement of these principles has deeply influenced my outlook and approach to life and career,” she states.
This DOLLA member’s story is one of grit, passion, and unwavering determination. From chasing her childhood dreams to inspiring others with her resilient spirit, she has shown us what it means to live fearlessly.
Jewellery by Swarovski
When asked what advice she would give her younger self, she replies, “Embrace your uniqueness, chase your dreams fearlessly, prioritise self-care, and cherish every moment with loved ones. Believe in yourself, and remember, the world is yours for the taking!”
In a world that often tries to make us conform, this DOLLA member reminds us that our uniqueness is our greatest asset. She has always led by example, showing us that we should be true to ourselves and treat others with compassion and respect. Her message is clear: believe in yourself, and the world is yours for the taking.
_______________________________________________
All accessories by Swarovski from the Spring/Summer 2024 collection.
Photographer: Micky Wong
Videographer: Zakwan Taufiq
Creative direction and styling: Amalina Anuar & Syameen Salehaldin
Makeup: Cat Yong
Hair: Juno Ko
Stylist Assistant’s: Shunzi
