Raya A. Mansoor Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Oevaali Art Shop

I am immensely grateful for the transformative journey my three years at University at Buffalo - SIM provided through my Bachelor's degree in Economics. The solid foundation in economic principles, critical thinking, and analytical skills I acquired during my time there played a pivotal role in shaping my career.

With the unwavering support and guidance from the dedicated faculty and professors, I was not only equipped with academic knowledge but also instilled with a sense of curiosity and a passion for innovation. The collaborative environment fostered by my peers and mentors at UB, SIM was invaluable.

This foundation laid the groundwork for me personally, to start Oevaali Art Shop, with three amazing partners, into the art and design sector in the Maldives. Armed with a unique blend of economic insights and creative thinking, I navigated challenges, eventually seeing the organic growth of Oevaali Art Shop. Eight years later, in 2024, Oevaali Art Shop has now expanded into Singapore, a place I am fortunate to call my second home.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to the faculty who shared their expertise, the peers who inspired collaboration, and the entire UB, SIM community for being an instrumental part of my academic journey. The invaluable lessons and enduring relationships cultivated during those three years continue to shape my career and influence the way I approach challenges in the dynamic world of art and design.

Oevaali Art Shop:

Oevaali Art Shop is a locally-loved Maldivian lifestyle brand of fine art and design, inspired by the ocean and the seaside. With a deep-rooted connection to the sea, we aim to capture the essence of coastal living. Everything we do is irrevocably connected to our island lifestyles and oceanic heritage — living by the rise and fall of the tides and chasing the sun.