Kade Rogers is a Changemaker

Tell me a little bit about yourself 

Hi, my name is Kade Rogers, my pronouns are they/them. I am a queer trans masc individual living in Cape Breton. I moved here to live with my husband Sefin. Together we have three cats – squid, sampson and prince. I moved from Florida USA in 2021. 

What makes you jump out of bed in the morning?

My cats, and making waffles.

How did you hear about this program?

I heard about this program through my husband, he heard about it through his social connections at work (the Youth Project). I thought it would be a great way to get to know my new community so I applied!

Can you tell me a bit about your project? What made you start thinking about it?

It’s funny, while we were brainstorming project ideas,  the painting pots idea was actually the least flushed out one at the beginning. But talking with other participants, I realized that it could be a way to make a direct impact, and get to know more people. 

I wanted to contribute to the happiness and morale of the Northside. I believe that painting is a wonderful coping skill that could benefit many households, and I believe plants are a great, low stress responsibility to improve mental health.

So I designed “Coping Kits.” These little kits are full of painting supplies and a pot, serving to be a very soothing activity – calming and releasing of emotions. I wanted to be able to offer these kits to youth in the Northside. 

When you think of the word Changemaker, does anyone you know come to mind?

Someone who is willing to help and try to make lives better for others, while also having the ability of not benefiting from it, not being the center of attention. 

Someone who just really wants to help others. 

What are your hopes for the Northside?

I want to see the community flourish. I hope to continue to learn about everyone and my new home. I want people to know that I am there for support. 

What is your best tip for making the world a better place?

Empathizing with others always. Learn to understand and try and remedy your own shortcomings, because we all have them, forever. 

Give us a snapshot of an ordinary moment in your life that brings you great joy?

Whenever I get to give my cat’s  kisses on the forehead. 

What is the one thing you’re deeply grateful for right now?

Being here: having a house, living inside of a building with my husband.