DEF Scholar: Kylie Marais
Age: 18
Gender: Female
Home country: Cape Town, South Africa
Activities: Student government, table tennis, community service
Kylie’s passion for biology and philosophy have her contemplating a career in genetic research.
Kylie’s Dream:
I view a leader as someone who accepts challenges without thinking twice, who grabs opportunities and yet values everything they have. A leader is someone who loves to learn and shares the knowledge through inspiration and motivation. A leader is someone who takes charge when the moment arises and does not wait for instructions.
My experience in various leadership positions from serving on the Representative Council of Learners, being a Hostel Representative and House Captain and the exposure I have gained regarding leadership styles and skills have all contributed to my development as a leader. I regard challenges as opportunities for growth and use my creative and innovative mind to inspire those around me. My love for learning leads me to believe that genetics is the most revolutionary and transformational scientific field of the 21st century, yet it remains highly under-represented on the potential-filled continent of Africa. Therefore, as part of my contribution towards the development of Africa, I hope to further my studies in the field of genetics and apply the skills I gain to improve the lives of those suffering from sickle cell anemia, cancer, heart diseases or other genetically inheritable diseases by enhancing or discovering treatments or vaccines.
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I’ve been in the beautiful city of Hong Kong for almost a week now. I am here to raise money for the Diamond Empowerment Fund (DEF), my non-profit organization which is dedicated to supporting the empowerment of African youth.
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