Perplexing the masses
> Kareema Ramli is one book you shouldn’t judge by its cover
allergies since I started this job,” unveiled the University of Nottingham alumni.
How do you cope with being far away from family and friends, and how do you keep yourself occupied? My family has always been very supportive; they want me to achieve my goals and they never hold me back. It keeps your mind at peace when the people you leave behind are more concerned about your development Band she wishes to perform with:
On loop: Dream performing stage: Favourite food: Favourite artists of all time:
Secret talent: than having you around.
I used to rot away in my room playing video games all day. But that has changed because I spend plenty of hours outdoors for my job and it has given me a new hunger for nature. So whenever I can, I would travel or drive to a random spot to watch the sun set.
What’s one thing you enjoy and dislike about working on an oil rig? I really like the simple lifestyle. You live on two sets of clothing for almost a month; have fixed meal times and at no charge; and work on outdoor tasks that are always fulfilling. You feel like you achieve something every single day. Not to mention, the view is beautiful and never the same each day. The only thing I dislike is writing reports. But then again, who likes writing reports?
How did you get involved with Maddthelin? Its male vocalist, Lenny found me via Facebook at a time when I was actively posting videos of my singing the songs I wrote. I was only supposed to replace Maddthelin’s other vocalist who was busy with exams, but she left the band soon after over personal reasons so I was asked to stay. I had my reservations at first, in fear of the fans’ reactions. However, the band was in the middle of writing a new album, and having no vocalist would render their efforts null. My creative side was also beckoning me to join in the writing process. Moreover, I’ve already formed a bond with the boys.
What’s more difficult: working offshore or performing in front of a live crowd? Which would you rather do for the rest of your life? Difficulty-wise, I would say working offshore. It is mentally and physically taxing, and almost always filled with obstacles and challenges. But like I said, that’s what makes it fulfilling. Performing, on the other hand, comes naturally. You get up there and let the music control you. The best performances happen when you don’t think.
These two are very different aspects of my life: career versus hobby. I love both. It would be like having to choose between chicken and cake. No can do!