 "The Maltese Honeybee originates from Malta where it is native. It is currently under threat, but we can help them reproduce and survive by planting more flowering plants in our gardens, terraces or balconies."
MALTA
KIM PELHAM
Height: 165 cm
Measurements: 34 in - 26 in - 34 in Career/Education: Senior Finance Manager  |
DESCRIBE YOUR CHILDHOOD/GROWING YEARS
I would describe my childhood as a simple yet very pleasant one as in Malta we have very warm temperatures, 300 days of sunshine and are lucky enough to enjoy the outdoors and embrace nature's gift. We are surrounded by beautiful beaches and the sea is a part of my childhood. If I had to close my eyes and picture my childhood, it would be with my family, spending the summer days by the sea hearing the waves crash on the beach rocks and enjoying the company of my big family. I was always an active child, always in sports whilst focusing on studies, I am very grateful for my parents who worked very hard to mold me into the person I am today, I owe it all to them.
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE MOMENT?
I think the most memorable moment is the day my mother gave birth to my younger sister, despite me being only 7 years old, having a younger sibling brought to me a sense of maturity and responsibility. The sense of responsibility I felt at that point in time, where I felt I knew I needed to care for another individual and make sure I was a role model to her to help her become the best version possible of herself. A sense of protection, to teach her and look out for her, and I realized life was beautiful and that family is the most valuable.
ANY SPECIAL STORIES OR FACTS ABOUT YOUR FAMILY?
Both my parents are almost orphans- My father grew up with only a mother, being hard to maintain a family in those days, he spent a lot of time in care of the church, as she needed to work.
My Mother on the other hand, grew up with her grandparents and was unfortunate enough to not have the luxury of either of her parents.
There are many things we take for granted in life but growing up without parents in my eyes must be one of the hardest things.
For me, my parents provided love and direction/ guidance which are essential for growth and development, I am eternally grateful that they always did their utmost, despite not having direction themselves to provide for me in the best ways possible
They are the definition of having nothing and struggling all their life to give their children the best life possible, they gave me a loving childhood, an education and a roof over my head - They gave me everything I needed.
WHAT IS THE MOST UNUSUAL THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE?
The most unusual thing I have done is traveled alone for a potential job, to meet employers and sat for an exam (Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission exam) in a foreign new country to me. I did not physically meet these people before except through an online video meeting. Despite being quite the risk taker, and enjoy solo travel, I would be lying if I say I was not slightly concerned. Safe to say it was a success, I passed my exam and was chosen for the job.
WHAT TIPS CAN YOU SHARE TO PROMOTE ECOTOURISM & CLIMATE CHANGE?
When it comes to Ecotourism - I would advise that it is important to do your research before traveling to another country. Make sure that you understand a viable way to protect the local community’s natural environment and help develop the community by choosing the most sustainable source of livelihood which is more sustainable and to respect the locals and their values. In Malta I would recommend - littering responsibly and separating waste, switching off electricity if not in use and making use of our all electric environmental friendly traveling options.
WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD OF YOUR COUNTRY?
There are many things which make me proud of my country! For starters we are a small island with a big heart, we have thousands of varied voluntary organizations! Many which promote and raise awareness towards the environment with many NGOs that give back to the community. I would describe the Maltese culture as very kind and accepting of all race and ethnicities.
WHAT IS YOUR ADVOCACY?
I consider myself an ambitious individual in all aspects with a focus on self-love, personal development, growth and therefore promoting self-empowerment as my advocacy. We cannot love others if we do not love and accept ourselves for who we are, instead of hiding our flaws, accept them, work on them if you must but be kind to yourself. This is a struggle for the younger generation and my aim is to always be a role model for those around me. We must ensure the mental health and physical health of the growing generations. We must educate the younger generations to embrace individuality and there is no such thing as perfect, it is ok to be different and feel you do not fit.
