Tamara Qabazard is an enigmatic person: an outspoken activist with conviction, passion, and poise, she speaks her mind with all the freneticism of a mind-afire. From her stint in ballet, to spoken-word and writing projects whilst abroad, from fitness and aerial acrobatics to her frequent modeling campaigns, she is blazing a unique and individualistic trail about town. Most days though, you will still find her in her most beloved and prized role: in between cages at the Kuwait Zoo, enriching the lives of the animals within.
She will be the first to admit that her varied interests can, at times, come off as scattered. However, what seems to be more evident upon closer review, is a common thread, revealing a deep and loving spirit towards all things love, positivity, and self-expression—think less dilettante and more renaissance (Wo)man!
As a woman in her field, she is a bit of an anomaly, as a Kuwaiti woman in her field—she may as well be Haley’s Comet. So rare are local women seeking the degree and profession she is currently pursuing, that she has quickly become an influential and positive role model amongst girls with the similar passion and zest for animals. Were it up to her, she would spend more time with animals than with people: she loves their honesty, simplicity, purity, and directness. Her care for them is evident via her commanding presence as she walks around the zoo, perpetually on radio to various team-members to fix this, or come clean that; the proof is indeed in the details.
From on-line activist, to bottle-feeding pygmy goats in 3 simple steps, we attempt the impossible by trying to fit such a mystic figure into the confines of our monthly questionnaire:
bazaar questionnaire:
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Achieving balance in life: With myself, with my time, with my energy.
(Editors note: a day later she re-replies, citing her later response towards indecisiveness as follows-it seems somehow important here to keep both answers).
Actually- I think my ultimate happiness is just…simplicity. Random bursts of joy. Beach. Horses. Music. Dancing. Freedom. I guess that could be balance.
What is your greatest fear?
Failure. I know it is the last thing you should fear because it will inevitably consume you and you will succumb to it, but I’m working on accepting not being the best at everything. It’s a process. I’m human. I wish I were a mermaid.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Indecision! I always want to do EVERYTHING. I think it’s the cause of my procrastination and why I can’t choose one word answers for any of these questions.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Ignorance. It breeds hate (which could also be self hate) and is definitely why we live in such a volatile world.
Which living person do you most admire?
I’m trying to find a way to combine my parents’ names without it sounding cacophonous (and let’s be honest, not causing drama!) Together, their traits make up the ultimate balance. But, if we are choosing outside of the family, definitely Nelson Mandela. I’m really bad at choosing.
What is your greatest extravagance?
My brain. Where else do you think my undeniable wit, free spirit, and obvious modesty come from?
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
I don’t think any of my regulars are bazaar appropriate, but from the acceptable ones (Courtesy of my close friends): “Mako,” “Na3aaaam?!,” and “Imaaaagine!!!!”.
When were you happiest?
Ah, this is tough. I have many moments of happiness but I would say when I got my first horse, Mirage, on Dec 11, 2001 because it showed how much faith my parents had in me and how I was able to heal pain through animals by loving him and trusting him as much as I did. The second one was my acceptance to Veterinary School June 4th, 2012 (the day after the Madonna concert!)
Which talent would you most like to have?
I am quite multi-talented. I would love to develop more of my talent in aerial acrobatics though. Wait, does breathing underwater count or is that a super hero talent?!
What would you consider your greatest achievement?
Where I currently am in my Veterinary career and the direction I’m going in.
Where would you most like to live?
The Far East eventually. But honestly, wherever the animals take me.
Follow Tamara on Instagram: @qabazard. Or, better still, go to the Kuwait Zoo in Omariyah and visit the animals. They need your support! Call 2225 0345 for info.