CQUniversity Certificate I in Conservation and Land Management graduate Kai-Shar Ezekiela was part of the first-ever cohort of Sea Rangers trained in a partnership program between CQUni Gladstone and the Gidarjil Development Corporation – and the only female in the group! The 21-year-old is passionate about helping others and hopes to build her career around caring for people and the environment.
What was a recent highlight of your life?
I would have to say completing my Certificate I in Conservation and Land Management. It wasn’t the easiest course for me and there were many personal battles while I was completing it, but I did it and I’m pretty proud of that.
Who has made an impact on your life? Why?
This might sound strange, but Kerser, the Aussie rapper from Sydney. His music has been the only thing to get me through some pretty dark times, and the lyrics to his songs, to me, are quite relatable.
What is the best thing about your CQUni campus?
I would have to say the teachers. My teacher Julie Barry was awesome! She made everyone feel included, explained things in terms we could all understand, and she made sure we had fun. The canteen is pretty great too!
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
I would love to change the social stigma attached to mental illness. I would love to see people who suffer from mental illness given the same chance as everyone else, and not made to feel crazy, different or that they don’t belong anywhere. I’d like to educate people on the different ways and things you can do to help these people and teach them that we’re people with feelings too, and we just want to be happy and feel normal again just like everyone else.
What is a motto or phrase that you live by?
When life is defined by a single action, it changes the concept of time.
If you were down to your last $10, what would you buy?
Nine times out of 10, I would give it away, but if I HAD to spend it I would probably buy hair dye or a new lipstick.
What is your favourite karaoke song and why?
I’d Die to Be with You Tonight by Jimmy Barnes. This song always gets me in the mood to sing, dance and party!
If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?
I would love the power to heal those who are hurting, whether it be emotional, physical or mental pain. I would just love to help.
