Get Kaia To Kazakhstan

"Strength does not come from external performance, strength comes from internal belief.” My name is Kaia Scholl and I am a para-powerlifting athlete. I have always had a competitive spirit. In the sporting world, it began with netball in my younger days, and most recently though representing QLD in the Women’s Wheelchair National Basketball League. My love for competition has never dwindled. I have never seen my disability as a barrier, but merely a challenge of physical and mental determination. I draw strength from being told “You can’t do this” and respond only with “Watch me." Although my journey in powerlifting has been rather short, I have come pretty far in the 10 months since I made the decision to delve into this sport. I represented Australia last September at the World Para Powerlifting Asia-Oceania Championships in Japan, and although I didn’t place, my hunger for success grew as I recorded a PB of 54kg and climbed to the number 24 ranking in the world. Since then I have competed in two competitions – The Oceanic Games in December last year, and in February this year at Nationals. In both these comps I walked away with a gold medal and a burning desire to keep climbing the ranks. In July this year I have the chance to chase that dream. I have the opportunity to represent my country at the 2019 Para Powerlifting World Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan and potentially improve my world ranking. There's only one thing standing in my way. The trip is entirely self-funded – and with the cost of overseas travel, as well as accommodation and entry fees, it is a possibility that I won’t be able to compete. This is why I am reaching out for help – not just make my dreams come true – but because I feel like after 25 years I have finally found my place, somewhere I belong. I want to show the world that having a physical disability does not limit your possibilities or stop you from living your dreams. Every little bit helps, and I am beyond grateful to everyone who can assist me in reaching my goals. ❤