What is the Kumari?

In this episode, we speak with an international aid worker who shares about her experience...

S1E1: Kumari - the child goddess

Hosted by Mel Tracina and Michaela Jones, Social JustUs is a podcast that explores issues of social injustice from around the world, empowering and inspiring all of us to be a part of the conversation and a voice for change.&nbsp;

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It's 2021! You’d be forgiven for thinking Animal Cosmetic testing is a thing of the past. Many countries around the world (including Australia) have enacted policies and legislation that bans cosmetic testing on animals- but unfortunately, despite these laws, you may be surprised to learn that some of your favourite, well-known and supposedly reputable brands are still partaking in this painful and inhumane practice. 
This year, Humane Society International released a stop motion, animated short film that stars familiar names like Taika Waititi, Ricky Gervais and Zac Efron. The film’s called ‘Save Ralph’ and it tells the story of the life of a rabbit named Ralph (voiced by Taiki Waititi) who is used, battered and bruised at his ‘job’ as an animal tester for cosmetics. This 4 minute film highlights the very sad reality forced on to thousands of animals each year, still to this day. 
In this episode, we sit down with Nicola from Humane Society International to uncover the truth behind cosmetic testing of animals, and to find out how we as consumers can do our part in helping see an end to this cruel practice. 
About Nicola: 
Nicola Beynon is the Head of Campaigns for the Australian Office of Humane Society International. Nicola has worked in animal protection for over 25 years, championing stronger laws and policies for animals in Australia and the international treaties .
Additional Resources: 



S3E6: The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry

“Coming out” as homosexual to ones loved ones, community, friends and family can be a nerve wracking experience for many members of the LGBTQ+ Community. Some fear that once they come out, they mightn’t be accepted, or perhaps treated differently, but for Bisi Alimi he could not have predicted what would happen next. 
Bisi Alimi is a Nigerian gay rights activist, story teller, public speaker and HIV/LGBT advocate who gained international attention after coming out as homosexual on National television - making him the first ever Nigerian man to openly declare his sexuality on TV. Within a matter of minutes of the interview airing, the community were outraged, ordering the long-standing morning show that Bisi was a presenter for to be axed. And on the same day, the Nigerian Government were drafting legislation to criminalise practicing homosexuality or providing any services to members of the LGBTQ Community. 
After fleeing Nigeria due to the discrimination he faced,  Bisi founded the Bisi Alimi Foundation - a charity that advocates for the rights and dignity of LGBT people in Nigeria. 
Additional Resources: 



S3E5: Coming out in Nigeria with Bisi Alimi

This is Part 2 of our conversation with Susan and Kirsty from Lighthouse Foundation - A place where homeless kids belong. In this episode, we ask the questions you may have about all things Foster Care! If you've ever wanted to learn more about the Foster Care system in Australia, who can be involved, and what life is like for a foster carer, than this episode is for you! 

Get to know our guest speakers:

Susan Barton:
Susan Barton is a revolutionary Australian leader in the area of youth homelessness. As Founder and Director of Lighthouse Foundation for homeless youth, Susan began caring for vulnerable young people in her own home more than 30 years ago, following a life changing experience as a volunteer in a Sri Lankan orphanage. In recognition of her dedication and work, in 2002 Susan was inducted as a Member of the Order of Australia, in 2009 she received Melbourne’s highest accolade and was our Melburnian of the Year. In 2012 she was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women for her significant achievements and contribution to the Victorian community. Susan’s mission is to change the way Australia looks at the issue and consequences of youth homelessness moving towards a more therapeutic approach on their journey to recovery. 
Kirsty Buchanan
Kirsty is the Head of Marketing and Recruitment at Lighthouse Foster care. Her 20 + years of marketing, strategy and relationship skills are helping Lighthouse find new foster carers and expand their foster care program. Having co-parented children with a previous partner, she has firsthand experience on the ups and downs of parenthood, but also the difference that stability and love can bring to a child, especially ones affected by abuse and trauma. 

Additional Resources: 



S3E4: Shining a light on Australia's most vulnerable children P2

We are speaking about all things Foster Care! Join us as we sit down with Susan and Kirsty from the Lighthouse Foundation in Melbourne, Australia to learn more about youth homelessness, the foster care system and how you can help create a safe home and community for homeless kids to belong, heal and thrive!

About the Lighthouse Foundation:
Lighthouse Foundation provides homes and therapeutic care programs to children and young people impacted by long-term neglect, abuse and homelessness. Lighthouse Foundation’s focus is to create caring communities where kids can feel safe, form meaningful relationships and begin to heal from traumatic experiences. To learn more, visit https://lighthousefoundation.org.au/

Get to know our guest speakers:

Susan Barton:
Susan Barton is a revolutionary Australian leader in the area of youth homelessness. As Founder and Director of Lighthouse Foundation for homeless youth, Susan began caring for vulnerable young people in her own home more than 30 years ago, following a life changing experience as a volunteer in a Sri Lankan orphanage. In recognition of her dedication and work, in 2002 Susan was inducted as a Member of the Order of Australia, in 2009 she received Melbourne’s highest accolade and was our Melburnian of the Year. In 2012 she was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women for her significant achievements and contribution to the Victorian community. Susan’s mission is to change the way Australia looks at the issue and consequences of youth homelessness moving towards a more therapeutic approach on their journey to recovery. 
Kristy Buchanan
Kristy is the Head of Marketing and Recruitment at Lighthouse Foster care. Her 20 + years of marketing, strategy and relationship skills are helping Lighthouse find new foster carers and expand their foster care program. Having co-parented children with a previous partner, she has firsthand experience on the ups and downs of parenthood, but also the difference that stability and love can bring to a child, especially ones affected by abuse and trauma. 

Additional Resources: 



S3E4: Shining a light on Australia's most vulnerable children P1

Most of us love our furry, four-legged friends, they're like family! But how would you feel knowing that there was a lethal poison that could inflict unspeakable pain and suffering on your beloved pets, pests and other native animals? 
In this episode, we speak with Alex Vince, the Campaign Director of Animal Liberation who has cofounded the Coalition of Australian's Against 1080 Poison. 
Sodium Fluoroacetate, commonly known as 1080 poison is a odourless and tasteless poison used for the intention to kill native animals that are seen as 'pests'. Although it's banned in many countries around the world, it is still legal and used in every state and territory in Australia. 
Want to find out more? Check out the work of the Coalition of Australian's Against 1080 Poison at http://ban1080.org.au/ 
Have any questions about this episode, or want to get in touch? Visit www.socialjustuspodcast.com or keep up to date on our socials @socialjustus.podcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S1E1: Kumari - the child goddess

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