Kia ora, and welcome back to UNLEARN! I’m Milla, an educator and researcher, and in this second episode, I’m reflecting on the values that currently drive my commitment to gender inclusion in education. So far this journey has taught me that unlearning biases—especially around gender—is not just about understanding others but about questioning the privileges and assumptions I’ve held for so long. 

Since I'm asking you to reflect and unlearn, I start by doing that myself. I share some reflections on the discomfort that recognising privilege and the responsibility that comes with it creates. Through my stories and examples, I unpack how misinformation, rigid beliefs, and fear can hinder our journeys towards inclusivity—and how we, as educators, can take steps to address these obstacles with empathy, respect, courage and grace.

In this episode, I also explain why mental models are at the heart of change in what my research is about. Whether you’re an educator, ally, or just curious, I hope this episode invites you to join me in unlearning what it means to foster true belonging for every student - that we see you all.