After making it in Hollywood, Arif now nurtures talents at home

Arif Nizam is the founder of Osom School, a digital learning platform aimed at developing young talents in 3D animation, visual effects and digital design.

PETALING JAYA:

The film “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” and television series “The Walking Dead” and “Silo” are among Hollywood productions that have captivated millions, and not just for their stories – these productions also feature stunning visual effects (VFX) that enhance the viewer’s experience.

But did you know that a Malaysian was among those who contributed to these breathtaking visuals? Meet Penangite Arif Nizam, 26, who worked on these renowned productions.

Arif’s overseas career took off when he was just 21, while working at MPC London, one of the world’s leading VFX studios behind such blockbusters as “Transformers”, “Harry Potter”, and multiple Marvel and DC films.

“I was fortunate to be contacted by a recruiter via LinkedIn after they saw my profile and body of work,” said Arif, who was previously attached to Lemon Sky and Animonsta Studios in Malaysia.

Sadly, at the height of his career, tragedy struck. On Oct 7 last year, Arif lost his father, 49-year-old Mohd Shamsulnizam Md Yusof, and brother, nine-year-old Muhammad Ammar, in an accident.

As the eldest child, he made the decision to leave his overseas job so he could return home to care for his mother and two younger siblings.

Arif Nizam — With former colleagues of MPC London, the studio behind the visual effects of numerous Hollywood productions.

Coincidentally, just a month before the tragedy, Arif had founded Osom School, a creative education platform aimed at teaching young talents skills in 3D animation, VFX and digital design.

“I had already planned to focus on this project to nurture new talents,” he told FMT.

Explaining why he started the platform, Arif said many students tend to get bored easily as the education system here is still rather conventional and has not evolved technologically.

Osom School, he noted, integrates visual elements and interactive learning through virtual tutors, creating an engaging educational experience for students.

“Imagine Naruto teaching mathematics – kids would definitely be more interested,” he added, referring to the young ninja character in the highly popular Japanese manga series.

Additionally, Osom School collaborates with zakat agencies to provide needy communities access to quality education, particularly in 3D animation.

Arif concluded that he hopes creative fields such as VFX, 3D animation and digital design will become viable career paths, especially for young people of underprivileged backgrounds.

Follow Arif on LinkedIn and learn more about Osom School via its website and on TikTok.

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After making it in Hollywood, Arif now nurtures talents at home

Arif Nizam's Osom School is a creative education platform that hones students’ skills in 3D animation, visual effects and digital design.