hello.

My name is Aliszarah Belle Lai. But please, call me “Ali”.

"Incomparable; one that possesses the ability to achieve what may seem impossible." This is the meaning bestowed upon me when my mother created the name 'Aliszarah' (Al-eh-ZAR-uh)

I am a young woman in my twenties, with the ambition and aspiration to accomplish great things. You may call me a practitioner of many crafts. But in truth, I am an artist above all else with a mission to inspire and revolutionize. My work embodies the essence of humanity; experiences, emotions, psychology, philosophy, and the fantasies one can only wish were real. 

To gain a better understanding of the human mind and soul, I enjoy exploring the world. Beyond traveling or cultural knowledge, I find myself diving of our societal hierarchy and the varying personas within our ranks. My belief is that adventure lies at the foot of our door and can be found even in the most mundane of situations.


creative direction

illustration

character design

video/animation

fine dining


education

  • Kean University

  • William Livingston - Full Ride Scholar

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts

  • Class of 2024


My college experience began September 2020, when Covid-19 heavily impacted our world. Nevertheless, I pushed forward in my education, and now anticipate the conclusion of my academic journey in may 2024.

Upon my acceptance at Kean University, I was honored with the William Livingston Scholarshipーa merit-based scholarship that covers full tuition for any full-time bachelor’s degree program. This award was given based on my national standardized testing scores, and overall academic excellence during high school. over the last four years, I have consistently been appointed to the Dean's List of the College of Liberal Arts for superior academic achievement.

art & affiliations

  • Kean Aesthetics: Vice President [2023-2024]

  • Social Media Management

  • Creator content

  • Digital Media Art

  • Gallery Curation

There has never been a moment in my life where art and creation were not a part of me. 

From early childhood, my greatest source of inspiration was cartoon television. From early 21st century cartoons, to modern Japanese anime, I was fascinated with the notions of video art, character/costume design, 2D animation, storyboards, and concept illustration. As the digital era advanced, social media platforms and creator content also became an area of interest [i.e. Youtube videos, thumbnail illustration, account management and design]. 

My social media focuses on digital media and fanart, currently amassing over 15,000 followers on Youtube, Instagram, and TikTok. In addition, my professional experience in photography, digital media and traditional art have led to my position as Vice President of Kean University’s Aesthetics Club. During my time as their leader, I have successfully directed numerous photoshoots, supervised creative events, conducted board and member meetings, and managed the club’s social media. Today, this newly found organization has amassed approximately 300 followers and members.

Currently, I am advancing in my journey as a leader and creator in the arts industry. I will stand as the creative director of a new company or organization, and further drive the business and its members to economic and visionary success in this new era and generation.

employment

  • captain in upscale & fine dining

  • front-of-house management

  • 3+ years in service & hospitality



September 2020, my journey in the restaurant and hospitality industry began at Sakura Bana Restaurant in Ridgewood, NJ. A private, Japanese restaurant, it served as both childhood nostalgia, and the first stepping stone to my success as a steward. I learned the fundamentals of being a host, server, and member of the front-of-house staff. Furthermore, I gained a thorough understanding of the delicacy and beauty of Japanese cuisine and culture. During the second half of my employment, I found myself in a role of front-of-house management as I was given the responsibilities of overseeing day-to-day operations, authoritatively handling guest concerns, troubleshooting technical problems and train new staff members.

In November 2021, I transferred to Houston's in Hackensack, NJ, where I began my endeavors in the world of fine dining. Under the intensive training of the Hillstone Restaurant Group, I amassed numerous skills that carried me further into my career as an elite server. Bottle service, food and beverage garnishes, three-plate carry, three-glass carry, marking and manicuring, open-hand service, and other fundamental lessons in upscale service.

In August 2022, I became a captain at Restaurant Serenade in historic Chatham, Nj, with the goal of furthering my skills in fine-dining service and hospitality. Under the leadership of renowned Chef James & Nancy Laird [as well as a handful of sommeliers & mixologists] , I was mentored in the delicate arts of wines, spirits, mixology, and French cuisine.

after polishing my skills in fine dining, upscale cuisines & beverages, i started a new venture at Haven Riverfront Restaurant and Bar in Edgewater, NJ. Close to my residence, with a stunning location and modern menu, I enjoyed my time as one of their team members as a combined server, captain, and cocktail waitress. From May 2023-November 2023, I continued to master my skills at the front of house, leaving only to focus on my upcoming solo exhibition, and pursue my passions in the professional arts and business industry.


I will forever remember a question that the management at Houston's had asked me during our interview:

"What does hospitality mean to you?"

Hospitality is when you welcome someone special into your home. Your goal is for your guest to feel comfortable, cared for, and by the end of their stay, they're already speaking of their return. Similarly in restaurants, hospitality is the act of ensuring a comfortable and fulfilling experience for every guest that walks in, until the moment they depart. It is with the hope and responsibility that your guest will have a positive, memorable experience, and a desire to return in the future. Every guest is special, and it is the honor of a server to tend to their needs with the utmost care, precision, and professionalism.