Kate ChandulalDee's unique and infectious smile can brighten anyone's day.
It's a gift she's always had and, coupled with her optimistic outlook, it has helped Kate bravely face many challenges in life.
Kate was born with the rare genetic disorder Crouzon syndrome, which causes bones of the face and skull to fuse early, and has resulted in her having 138 operations to date.
"Overcoming all of the adversities in my life is like my superpower," she enthuses. "I know I can achieve anything in my life because I have learned from my experience. Going through the hard challenges makes it worth it because it makes all of the good things wonderful!"
The Weekly first met Kate in 2011, when she was just seven years old and starting school. Now 20, Kate is all grown up and has just finished the last of her exams at Edgewater College in Auckland. She's looking forward to entering tertiary study and plans to graduate with a degree in the creative arts and media.
"School has been important to keep me going and to help me with my self-confidence," she tells. "Through school, I found my abilities and talents, like writing and drama. I've also learned how to be enthusiastic and passionate."
Denne historien er fra November 27 ,2023-utgaven av New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra November 27 ,2023-utgaven av New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Sweet SUCCESS
Delicious twists on traditional favourites
Calzone CRAVING
Anything you can put on top of a pizza can go inside these air fryer Italian turnovers
Kai & kindness - ‘OUR RECIPE FOR A GOOD LIFE'
The foodie and her brother have dished up a cookbook full of comfort
Kia Ora Dame! 'I HAD A BIGGER PURPOSE'
It could have taken a toll on her, but Naida's phone greeting started a legacy
Dame Hinewehi's healing haka - 'IT'S GOING TO CHANGE LIVES'
Beating a world record is personal for the music therapy founder
Unbreakable Mamie - 'I'M READY TO FAMOUS!' BE
The TV star and model is excited about what the future holds
Below Deck detective - CAPTAIN LEE'S SEA CHANGE
The superyacht hero's family tragedy has led him to navigate scary waters
Swings & roundabouts - OWEN'S BIG KID PROJECT
Playtime's a whole lot more fun thanks to the radio host
Haunted by tragedy - KATE'S SHOCK LOSS
The star is still dealing with the death of her dad when she was aged four
Top-secret royal plan - BRINGING HARRY HOME
Disillusioned with life in the US, the prince is reaching out to friends in the UK