What happens when war takes not only your home, but generations of dreams, stability, and identity?

In this deeply moving episode of Changing Platforms, Alka Bromiley hears from 34-year-old Palestinian entrepreneur and father, Montaser Yusef Al Maqadma, who shares a firsthand account of survival, displacement, and resilience during the ongoing devastation in Gaza.

Born and raised in Gaza, Montaser recounts the terrifying realities of fleeing his home while his wife was pregnant, navigating repeated displacement, and witnessing the destruction of the family factory built by his late father — a business that represented not just livelihood, but dignity, purpose, and hope for countless families.

This episode is not only about loss. It is about humanity. It is about a father determined to bring joy to his daughter during wartime by making a single chocolate bar when none could be found. It is about rebuilding in the face of unimaginable adversity, and the belief that communities deserve more than survival — they deserve the chance to live and work with dignity.

Montaser’s story is raw, courageous, heartbreaking, and profoundly human.

Join us for a conversation about resilience, family, identity, and the enduring power of hope amidst destruction.

If this episode moves you, please consider supporting Montaser and the rebuilding of his family’s factory through his GoFundMe campaign. Every contribution helps restore not only a business, but livelihoods, dignity, and hope for families affected by war.

Donate to Montaser’s GoFundMe Campaign:
https://gofund.me/cfe8a8d50

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Find your host, Alka Bromiley at:⁠⁠✨ Website⁠⁠✨⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠✨⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠✨ LinkedIn

Here’s a more polished and cohesive version that keeps the emotional impact, clarifies the returning guest angle, and strengthens the narrative flow for a Spotify/YouTube episode description or LinkedIn-style long-form promo:

Basira Paigham returns to Changing Platforms for a deeply powerful follow-up conversation—this time sharing not only where her journey has taken her since fleeing Afghanistan, but the extraordinary impact she is now making around the world.

Recognized by the BBC as one of the 100 Most Influential Women of 2021, Basira first joined the podcast to speak about her escape from Afghanistan, the dangers she faced as an LGBTQ+ woman, and the harsh realities of life inside a refugee camp in Ireland. In this new episode, we reconnect with Basira to explore what came next: healing, leadership, advocacy, and building meaningful global change from unimaginable hardship.

Now serving as the Executive Director of Rainbow Afghanistan, Basira is helping create life-saving support networks for Afghan LGBTQ+ individuals living under extreme threat. She shares how she transformed rejection into resilience, found strength through self-acceptance, and turned personal trauma into a platform for activism and hope.

In this conversation, Basira opens up about:
• Rebuilding her life after displacement and fear
• Navigating identity, family rejection, and emotional survival
• The ongoing dangers faced by queer Afghans
• Building Rainbow Afghanistan into a global advocacy movement
• Creating solidarity across Afghan diaspora communities
• Leadership, resilience, and finding purpose through adversity

This episode is raw, courageous, emotional, and ultimately hopeful. Basira’s story is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, one voice can create a ripple effect that changes lives and communities around the world.

Perfect for advocates, activists, migrants, leaders, and anyone searching for inspiration to stand firmly in their truth, this episode is more than a conversation—it’s a call to action.

🎙️ Tune in now to hear how Basira Paigham continues to turn courage into impact and advocacy into global movement.

Find Basira Paigham at: ✨ Facebook✨ Instagram ✨ LinkedIn

Find Rainbow Afghanistan at: ✨ Website✨ Instagram✨ Facebook⁠✨ LinkedIn⁠

You can find more information and participate here:
English form: https://forms.gle/YT93fAzZQtmvtjyV6

Additionally, the Afghanistan Rainbow Path Network is launching a Solidarity Platform designed to bring together organizations, institutions, researchers, media actors, activists, and allies working to advance equality and human rights for the LGBTIQA+ community connected to Afghanistan and its diaspora.

To join the network, please use the following form:
https://forms.gle/anDUf54wznaiN9J6A

You may also find the UN session that Basira spoke about:
Reclaim Families:  Reclaim Families: A Feminist and Human Rights-Based Approach to Family Policy (CSW69 Side Event) | UN Web TV 

Find your host, Alka Bromiley at:⁠✨ Website⁠✨⁠ Instagram⁠✨⁠ Facebook⁠⁠✨ LinkedIn

In this powerful episode of Changing Platforms, host Alka Bromiley sits down with Zandile Ndhlovu—ocean conservation leader, pioneering freediver, and founder of The Black Mermaid Foundation.

From her childhood in Soweto to becoming South Africa’s first Black female freediving instructor, Zandile shares a deeply personal journey shaped by curiosity, resilience, and a profound connection to water. She reflects on early experiences of limited access to swimming, the influence of education and storytelling, and her work in equity, diversity, and inclusion within South Africa’s construction industry—where she saw firsthand how language and allyship shape belonging.

A defining moment during scuba training—where she experienced exclusion—sparked a mission: to create safer, more inclusive ocean spaces for Black communities. Since founding her organization in 2020, Zandile and her team have introduced over 1,200 learners to the ocean, using snorkeling, storytelling, and education to build confidence, connection, and a new generation of ocean guardians.

This conversation dives into:

• How storytelling can reshape our relationship with nature—and each other
• The ocean as a space of healing, identity, and belonging
• Why representation in conservation is critical for real impact
• Practical ways to engage children in ocean stewardship
• How one voice can challenge narratives and spark global change

Zandile’s work—spanning underwater photography, education programs, and a globally reaching children’s book—is redefining who belongs in the water and why it matters. Her story is a reminder that when we expand the narrative, we expand possibility.

If you’re a changemaker, educator, conservationist—or simply someone who believes in the power of stories to move people and ideas—this episode will leave you inspired to create ripples of your own.

Tune in and discover how storytelling, courage, and connection can transform both our oceans and ourselves. 🌊

Find Zandile Ndhlovu at: ✨ Website✨ The Black Mermaid Foundation✨ Instagram✨ Facebook✨ LinkedIn

Find your host, Alka Bromiley at:✨ Website✨ Instagram✨ Facebook✨ LinkedIn

Most women don’t realize that a global, high-level career—and living a truly fulfilling life—starts with daring to dream beyond borders. Pilar Gonzalez, a Mexican-born banking leader now thriving in Asia and Europe, shares how her childhood in a lively Mexico City cul-de-sac and her relentless curiosity propelled her to compete on a worldwide stage—despite cultural and gendered barriers. In this episode, you'll discover how Pilar seamlessly transitioned from psychology to international banking, and how her network and mentorship shaped her extraordinary journey. We explore her pivotal moves from Mexico to London, Singapore, and beyond, revealing the strategies she used to navigate challenges, build confidence, and lead across cultures. Pilar discusses real strategies for forging impactful connections, mastering career transitions, and balancing global responsibilities with family life—lessons every ambitious professional needs. We break down the importance of curiosity, generosity, and resilience in shaping a life that defies the odds. Pilar shares her insights on the power of mentorship, the importance of clear goals, and embracing change with positivity—even in the face of personal health battles. Her story is a masterclass in leadership, courage, and living with purpose—lessons that resonate just as powerfully today. Why does this episode matter? Because in an increasingly interconnected world, your ability to adapt, connect, and lead with authenticity can transform not just your career but your entire life. Pilar’s experiences remind us that with curiosity and grit, you can turn any challenge into a new opportunity for growth and impact. Whether you're just starting out or contemplating your next big move, this inspiring conversation offers the tools and mindset to make bold moves and foster genuine connections. Perfect for women in international careers, leaders seeking fresh perspective, or anyone craving a dose of inspiration to live more fully—this episode is your roadmap to embracing change and creating your legacy. Join us to learn from Pilar Gonzalez’s journey of resilience, purposefulness, and the unshakeable belief that with enough curiosity, effort, and kindness, you can truly change your platform.

Find Pilar Gonzalez at:✨ LinkedIn

Find your host, Alka Bromiley at:✨ Website✨ Instagram✨ Facebook✨ LinkedIn

Welcome back to Changing Platforms! In this short, host Alka Bromiley shares her journey of taking a break from podcasting, the reasons behind it, and her renewed passion for creating meaningful content. She also teases an upcoming episode with guest Pilar González from Mexico, emphasizing the importance of passion projects and community.Main topics covered:

Find your host Alka Bromiley at:✨ Website✨ Instagram✨ Facebook✨ LinkedIn

In this episode of Changing Platforms, host Alka welcomes Ilana Landsberg-Lewis, an unconventional leader with over 30 years of experience in mobilizing resources for global human rights. Ilana shares her journey from an activist family in Canada to spearheading pivotal movements and initiatives at the UN and Stephen Lewis Foundation. The episode delves into Ilana's philosophies on feminism, intersectional rights, and the importance of empowering grassroots organizations. Learn how Ilana's experiences with African grandmothers and older women worldwide shaped her approach to activism and advocacy and explore her passion project—the 'Wisdom at Work' podcast. A candid dialogue that promises to inspire and uplift, revealing the transformative power of love and collective action.

Find Ilana Landsberg-Lewis at:

Wisdom at Work Fund

Link to the WizWork social media platform for 60+ women activists: WizWork: social media platform for 60+ women https://wizwork.net

Link to the Wisdom at Work Podcast (which can also be found on most streaming services)

Wisdom at Work: Older Women, Elderwomen & Grandmotherson the Move! 

Link to a film of the Stephen Lewis Foundation Peoples' Tribunal: 
https://youtu.be/CoH32cT0r8s?si=1gwdkTIX5l4k0S3m

The African Grandmothers Tribunal: Seeking justice at the frontlines of the AIDS crisis

Find your host Alka Bromiley at:

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Changing Platforms is brought to you by ⁠Inspire2⁠ - ⁠https://changingplatforms.com/coaching-and-consultancy⁠

This video podcast tells the inspiring story of 64-year-old Brazilian grandfather João Stanganelli Jr., who found a new purpose in life through crocheting after stepping back from the food industry due to health issues. João's passion project started with creating a doll resembling his own granddaughter who has vitiligo, sparking a wider interest and resulting in the creation of over 300 custom dolls for children and adults with various disabilities from around the world. His work, widely recognized on social media, serves as a beacon of acceptance and representation. João's dream now includes publishing a magazine featuring diverse stories of children and their unique challenges. This heartwarming episode highlights Joanne's dedication to spreading love, positivity, and self-acceptance through his crocheting.

Translated by Emilia Maia

Find João Stanganelli Jr.⁠ on Instagram

Find your host Alka Bromiley at:

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Changing Platforms is brought to you by ⁠Inspire2⁠ - ⁠https://changingplatforms.com/coaching-and-consultancy⁠

In this powerful episode of Changing Platforms, released on Domestic Violence Awareness Day, our host shares her personal experiences with domestic violence, explaining how these challenging times inspired her to create the Changing Platforms podcast. Special guest Dr. Aninda Sidhana, a renowned psychiatrist and mental health advocate based in India, joins the conversation. Dr. Sidhana talks about her journey surviving domestic violence, her professional achievements in psychiatry, and her dedication to mental health advocacy. She shares touching stories from her childhood, the importance of family support, and her tireless work for gender equality and human rights. The episode also discusses the stigma around mental health in India, the importance of support systems, and the role of parents and media in shaping societal norms. Dr. Sidhana's story of resilience, advocacy, and hope serves as an inspiration to many.

Trigger Warning: This podcast episode involves discussions of domestic violence, emotional abuse, and other sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised.

Find Dr. Sidhana at: 

 Website: https://www.shrinkanindasidhana.com

Website: www.healcycle.com 

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HealCycle App: https://onelink.to/ug9q7w

Find your host Alka Bromiley at:

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⁠Facebook⁠

⁠LinkedIn⁠

Changing Platforms is brought to you by ⁠Inspire2⁠ - ⁠https://changingplatforms.com/coaching-and-consultancy⁠

In this emotionally powerful episode, Alka welcomes her youngest sister, Naieya Eriksson, to share her courageous journey through breast cancer. Naieya opens up about the moment she was diagnosed, the impact on her family, and how she found strength in the most challenging of times. The sisters reflect on their childhood, the bonds that have held their family together through thick and thin, and the important role family support has played in overcoming adversity. As Naieya recounts her journey, she offers words of wisdom for others facing similar battles, emphasizing the importance of early detection and mental fortitude. Join us for an inspiring episode filled with vulnerability, resilience, and the enduring power of familial love.

Find your host Alka Bromiley at:

⁠Website⁠

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

⁠LinkedIn⁠

Changing Platforms is brought to you by ⁠Inspire2⁠ - ⁠https://changingplatforms.com/coaching-and-consultancy⁠

In this episode of 'Changing Platforms,' we shine a light on Perimenopausal Awareness Month. Host Alka Bromiley sits down with Ananya Grover, a Princeton University graduate making significant strides through her project, HealCycle, which focuses on improving care for women affected by premenstrual mood disorders. Ananya shares her journey from being a voracious reader and Indian classical dancer in Noida to her diverse experiences at Princeton, where she explored computer science, creative writing, and public service. She discusses the conception and aims of HealCycle, insights into menstrual health, and challenges faced during her transition to U.S. education amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Ananya also touches on the significance of mental health, gender, and cultural representation, and emphasizes the value of connecting past experiences to pave the way for future success. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on technology, empowerment, and fostering positive change.

Find Ananya Grover at: 

Website: www.healcycle.com 

Instagram: @healcycle and @ananyag. 

HealCycle App: https://onelink.to/ug9q7w

Find your host Alka Bromiley at:

⁠Website⁠

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Facebook⁠

⁠LinkedIn⁠

Changing Platforms is brought to you by ⁠Inspire2⁠ - ⁠https://changingplatforms.com/coaching-and-consultancy⁠