My Life Now - meet Ebenezer

It’s been 17 years since the Trust first set sail – what are the young people who have been on trips up to now? Our 'My Life Now' series shows a positive future after cancer is a reality. This month Ebenezer Okesade tells us how the Trust inspired him to seek a fulfilling career in law.

Name Ebenezer Okesade

Age 24

Diagnosis/year: I was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma in 2009 aged 13.

When you first sailed with the Trust?

I first sailed with the Trust in 2009 on the Isle of Wight and I've also been on a Bradwell residential trip. Both were amazing experiences!

What you do now?

I've just finished graduating from the University of Leicester with a bachelor’s in law where I took a year abroad at Singapore Management University. I now volunteer with Citizens Advice Bureau while studying the Legal Practice Course (LPC) to become trainee solicitor at BPP University in Holborn.

Explain what that means?

I'm currently studying part time whilst working in the charity sector. Citizen advice provides advice to help the public and influences social policy to the betterment of society. Once completed my Law School (Masters) I will be continuing working with Citizen Advice or move towards a Law Firm.

Why did you do want to do this?

Ultimately, I have huge desire to help people and pursuing law and the way it interacts with many facets of society enthuses me. I am keen to help with justice reform and social reform and write further on how to better society and people's lives and wish to do this through the law.

What's the coolest thing you've done lately?

Traveled to Singapore for 9 months as part of my study abroad program, I was unsure at first but decided to take the leap of faith and leave the continent for a broader outlook on life. I learnt a lot about myself during this time and grew massively as a person. 

Why did you need the Trust's support in recovery?

Suffering with Cancer at a young age can be really tough and in those formative years it can have a real impact on how you see the world going forward. The Trust provided an opportunity to rebuild my confidence and take my mind off the cancer, it made me realise I'm so much more than my illness. Seeing others who had suffered through the Big C and deciding to truly embrace the chance to release was a great experience and really aided my recovery. 

What part has the Trust played in you doing what you are now?

Reminded me of the value in giving back and inspired me to want to seek fulfilling work in helping others get back on their feet. 

What's your top tip for a young person interested in studying for a law degree.

Be brave and consistent, with both these in mind you will go far.