Thanks so much for agreeing to this interview Randa! First up, how would you describe yourself?
Animal lover. Empath. Older. Wiser. Try to avoid drama and enjoy a peaceful life.
What would you say is your main identity?
Flawed human
Who are some of your role models, people you respect and learn from?
My mother was a very kind and caring woman. When i was young she’d send me to a battling older neighbour’s house with a bbq chicken. She’s gone now but I’d be so happy if i can follow in her footsteps.
I respect people that help other living beings, and people that care and share.
What are 3 main projects or goals you’re focusing on at the moment?
i. assisting a local pet rescue with projects I can do from home. Things like fundraising, seeking food donations, etc. Even if it’s just bumping posts.
ii. preparing for my DJ gigs. I have one weekly until Christmas. I put in a lot of preparation. It gives me great joy to see people dancing and having fun.
iii. my daily art practice. A little each day. I am currently preparing six works for an upcoming group show.
Tell us more about your work with the pet rescue.
I’ve always volunteered for animal related charities as the cause is close to my heart. Animals have no voice and deserve better treatment. Penalties need to be harsher for those that abuse them too. Thankfully the Animal Justice Party was formed.
What are 3 achievements you’re proud of?
i. I was sent to Japan as an M.S. Ambassador — all expenses paid by the Japanese Society. I was an ambassador for MS Australia for over a decade.
ii. I’m proud that at 62 I still get a lot of DJ gigs.
iii. I’m house proud. Because i spend so much time at home I have created a haven here.
Tell us more about your work as an MS ambassador.
1n 1999 I was living with my then partner in London and I experienced my first M.S. episode.
Years later i saw a call for the very first round of MS ambassadors. Initially i thought no, because i don’t want to bring attention to a cause just because I have it.
My partner at the time encouraged me to be a voice for others and so I applied. I’d speak at all sorts of events to educate the community on MS.
My most rewarding talks were with newly diagnosed where i aimed to give them hope. I presented well and was still working full-time after 10 years living with the disease. I’m now medically retired.
My passion though, throughout life, has been helping animals. My pets are all “rescues”. Three of my six dogs came from puppy farms. They lived the first five or so years of their life in a cage, used as breeding machines. They didn’t experience human love and it took a long time to build their trust. Five of my six dogs cannot be walked, because they are far too anxious to leave the house.
If people want to get in touch with you, how can they?
Email — randamagdi_at_icloud.com
How can people support your work?
Follow Ozzi Hearts 4 Paws on facebook.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
I’d encourage people to help others where they can.
Self-portrait supplied by Randa
Learn more about Randa’s art and DJing here:
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