Meet Shad2024 Alum Annabella Kendell, member of the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation in Newfoundland and Recipient of Shad’s Verna J. Kirkness Scholarship
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Annabella Kendell, and I am from Pasadena, Newfoundland. I am going into grade 12 at Pasadena Academy, where I am an active member of my school’s student council. I have a growing passion for being involved in my community. Last winter I was selected as the youth ambassador for the Pasadena Winter Carnival. As well, I’ve done volunteering at a local long term care facility. Playing sports is another big part of my life. I play on my school’s volleyball, basketball and softball teams. It’s an honor to be able to represent my school and community while doing what I absolutely love. More of my hobbies include traveling, hiking, and going for boat rides. Throughout my life I have developed a genuine interest in science and math which is why I was so excited for Shad, where I could learn more about these areas and grow this interest even further.
Q: What interests you about STEAM?
Since 7th grade, I knew I had a passion for STEAM. I have always been interested in problem solving and figuring out how the world works around me. After participating in the program STEM for GIRLS, it was clear to me how underrepresented women were in some of the fields involved in STEAM. Shad showed me that the possibilities were endless. I was able to grow confidence and understand my own capabilities more clearly. The fact that this field of study offers so much opportunity for collaboration and interaction with those around me motivates me to pursue it into my future. I love how STEAM and entrepreneurship solve direct real-world problems. It would be a dream come true to have a job which instantaneously improves people’s lives.
Q: What was the biggest takeaway from your Shad experience?
After completing Shad, I was shocked with all the amazing things I could take away from the month-long experience. My biggest takeaway from the Shad program is my increased confidence, which I truly never thought I would find. Growing up I was always really shy, especially in front of new people, so it’s crazy to me how fast someone can change in just a few years. From simply making new friends from across Canada, to giving public presentations in front of other students and professors, I feel like I am a totally different person because of Shad. This program has brought my independence to a whole new level, I now feel way more prepared and confident for my future!
Q: At Shad we are leaders in social innovation, how do you plan to use #STEAM4Good?
From being a leader and solving real world problems while at Shad, I fully understand how impactful it is. While I am not exactly sure which profession I want to pursue, I see myself in the field of health care. I love the feeling of making people feel better so it would be amazing to do it as a living. #STEAM4Good will allow me to use my creativity and leadership skills to truly make a difference in people’s health and wellbeing. It will help me to think outside the box, which will ultimately be the contributing factor to the improvement of lives around me.
Q: What lessons would you share with incoming Shads?
It is completely normal to feel nervous and unsure when first going to Shad, there will be so many opportunities that you have never experienced before. I would say the most important thing is to have a completely open mind about trying new things, everything you do will be so fun! People who you have just met will quickly become family. Although you may be wondering if people will like you, being yourself is key. Shad is a diverse community so everyone will love you for who you are! You might feel homesick at some points during the month but try to stay in the moment as much as possible and take in as much as you can from the program. You will look back at your month at Shad for the rest of your life, try to make as many lasting friendships as you can!
