In Transit: Many journeys of finding home

In Transit is a podcast that amplifies the lived experiences of migrant ethnic women in Aotearoa New Zealand. Through heartfelt conversations, our host Dr Hafsa Ahmed MNZM explores their challenges in settling, the moments that made them feel at home, and the advice they’d give to others on a similar path. These stories are about resilience, identity, and the search for belonging, offering insight, connection, and inspiration for listeners across all backgrounds. This project was supported by funding from the Ministry for Ethnic Communities.

In Transit - Ep 18 - Maria Buldain

Join us in this episode of In Transit as Maria Buldain shares her journey from Uruguay to Oamaru and her work supporting migrant communities across Aotearoa. A psychologist, counsellor, and advocate, Maria speaks about culturally responsive care, mental health, and the power of inclusive, community-led support.

10-14
53:48

In Transit - Ep 17 - Upeksha Walisundara

In this episode of In Transit, Upeksha shares her story of coming to Aotearoa and settling in.

10-07
44:02

In Transit - Ep 16 - Morenike Oladeinde

Join Hafsa for another conversation that amplifies the lived experiences of migrant ethnic women in Aotearoa New Zealand. Join us in this episode of In Transit as Dr. Morenike Oladeinde shares her of migrating to Aotearoa.

09-30
58:03

In Transit - Ep 15 - Dr. Khairul Saidah Abas Azmi

In this episode of In Transit, Dr. Khairul Saidah Abas Azmi reflects on her global journey in forensic accounting and sustainability auditing. She shares how purpose, integrity, and impact have shaped her path from Malaysia to Aotearoa.

09-23
51:53

In Transit - Ep 14 - Sofia Ayushi

Join us in this episode of In Transit as Sofia Ayushi shares her journey from India to Aotearoa and her powerful work in the family and sexual violence sector. She reflects on the importance of culturally responsive, community-driven approaches to healing and support.

09-16
50:06

In Transit - Ep 13 - Sumeera Dawood

In this episode of In Transit, Sumeera Dawood, a South African-Kiwi writer and coach, shares reflections shaped by her upbringing under Apartheid. Guided by ubuntu, she explores identity, intersectionality, and finding connection across cultures in Aotearoa.

09-09
51:33

In Transit - Ep 12 - Dr. Himasha Gunasekaraa

Join us in this episode of In Transit as Dr. Himasha Gunasekara shares her journey as an education designer, adventurous mum, and community connector. She reflects on learning, belonging, and the power of genuine friendships in Aotearoa.

09-02
55:13

In Transit - Ep 11 - Mavis Kamota

Meet Mavis Kamota, a Zimbabwean nurse, advocate, and proud grandmother who’s been building futures in Aotearoa since 2008. In this episode of In Transit, she shares her passion for youth, empowerment, and embracing diversity through action and voice.

08-26
52:30

In Transit - Ep 10 - Sol Gil

In this episode of In Transit, we meet Sol, a Colombian entrepreneur and project manager who’s called Christchurch home for 20 years. She shares her journey of growth, creativity, and community — and the joy of sharing knowledge across cultures.

08-19
50:35

In Transit - Ep 9 - LiYing Cai

Join us in this episode of In Transit as LiYing Cai reflects on her groundbreaking journey from Chinese media to becoming the first overseas-born Asian woman in NZ Police — challenging stereotypes and bridging cultures with resilience and heart.

08-12
46:28

In Transit - Ep 8 - Janneth Gil

Get to know Janneth Gil, a Colombian-born artist, engineer, and changemaker in this episode of In Transit. She shares how art, storytelling, and advocacy intersect in her journey of identity, inclusion, and social impact in Aotearoa.

08-05
45:23

In Transit - Ep 7 - Farah N Khosravi

Join us in this episode of In Transit as we meet Farah Khosravi, an interpreter and passionate advocate who’s building bridges across cultures in Aotearoa. She shares her journey of justice, connection, and creating change through community.

07-29
54:10

In Transit - Ep 6 - Sharon Gardner

Meet Sharon, an Indian clinical psychologist newly registered as a counsellor in Aotearoa. In this episode of In Transit, she reflects on supporting youth and immigrants, and finding her place through care, purpose, and professional growth.

07-22
51:58

In Transit - Ep 5 - Anshu Parti

Join us in this episode of In Transit as we hear from a proud Punjabi mother of three who moved to Aotearoa in 2007. She shares her love for community service, cultural connection, and the values that guide her life and leadership.

07-22
49:14

In Transit - Ep 4 - Rachel M Tapera

Public health researcher and advocate Dr Rachel Mukwezwa Tapera shares her journey as a migrant mother and community leader. She reflects on addressing health inequities, championing MELAA voices, and creating space for inclusive, culturally safe care in Aotearoa.

07-08
56:56

In Transit - Ep 3 - Dilmini Perera

In this episode of In Transit, we speak with Dilmini Perera, postgraduate student and founder of the Christchurch Sri Lankan Dance School. She reflects on building community through culture, dance, and her journey of belonging in Aotearoa.

07-01
47:20

In Transit - Ep 2 - Amanda Smidt

Join us for a compelling conversation about belonging with Amanda Smidt, who arrived in New Zealand from her home country, South Africa, 28 years ago. Throughout her life and career - as a teacher, trainer and career counsellor - she has valued reflective practice. Today she reflects on the interconnections of life, career, and the factors that influence our decisions. Amanda shares her migrant journey and how it has shaped her self-understanding, identity, and sense of belonging.

06-24
58:25

In Transit - Ep 1 - Komathi Ramiah

In this episode of In Transit, we meet Komathi Ramiah, a Malaysian mum of three and PhD candidate researching social media and adolescent wellbeing. She shares her journey from engineering to education, and what belonging means to her in Aotearoa.

06-17
47:38

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