In his first ever public interview, Bol Mayan, Founder of The Seed Network, shares his journey from growing up in Richmond, skating the streets, and running from his South Sudanese identity - to becoming a filmmaker, community leader, and cultural storyteller.

We talk about:

‣ How skateboarding led him to filmmaking and Channel 31

‣ Building The Seed Network to inspire young people of colour

‣ Embracing and celebrating his South Sudanese heritage

‣ Using sport, media, and storytelling to create opportunities in Richmond

‣ The impact of representation in breaking stereotypes

‣ Navigating the light and dark sides of social media

Timestamps:

0:00 Guided Mindfulness – Breathing exercise and reflections on mindfulness

2:20 Daily Reflection Practice – Three questions for daily growth

6:30 Meeting at Youth Works – How Bol and Liem first met

8:40 From Skater to Filmmaker – Skate culture, COVID, and personal loss

14:20 Launching The SEED Network – Bedroom interviews on culture

17:20 From Bedroom to Channel 31 – Landing a 12-episode TV series

20:40 Winning ‘Outstanding New Producer’ – Discovering what producing means

25:40 Pivot to Documentaries – Telling Richmond community stories

28:20 Men’s Mental Health Hike – Normalising open conversations

29:50 Friday Soccer – Community sports in Richmond

31:20 Boxing Program – From training to debut fights

33:20 Embracing South Sudanese Identity – Reconnecting with culture

38:20 Multicultural Richmond – How diversity shaped his work

40:40 The SEED Network Team – Filmmakers, coaches, and collaboration

44:55 Social Media Spotlights – Platform for representation

48:40 Representation Matters – Peter Bol and breaking barriers

51:15 What’s Next – New documentaries and interviews

53:00 Guarding Your Mental ‘Garden’ – The SEED metaphor

56:00 Gratitude for Mum – Her role in Bol’s journey

57:20 Cooking With Mum – A public love letter through food

Bol’s mission is simple but powerful: plant seeds of possibility so the next generation can grow into their potential. This is an honest and heartfelt conversation about identity, creativity, and giving back.

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Hosted by Liem Nguyen and produced by Jasper Menor, co-founders of OKIRU, the OKIRU Rise Together Podcast celebrates creativity, cultural pride, and community stories.

Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! Prefer to listen on the go? Find us on Spotify and other podcast platforms!

In this episode, Liem sits down with Michael Husky Nguyen - a cultural connector, music curator, and producer at SBS Vietnamese—to trace his journey from tech to the heart of Australia’s Vietnamese music scene and SBS Vietnamese.

What began as pandemic-era Zoom collaborations evolved into People Behind the Music, a platform amplifying Asian voices in the arts. Now, through his work at SBS and as an artist manager, Michael is bridging the gap between Vietnamese hip hop and traditional media - while spotlighting stories that often go unheard.

This conversation dives deep into identity, heritage, and community. Michael opens up about growing up in Melbourne’s western suburbs, the role of hip hop as personal expression, and the complexities of intergenerational dialogue. From language and discipline to cultural belonging and media representation, this is an honest look at what it means to move between worlds - and make something meaningful from the in-between.

0:03 Building community and collaboration in the music industry

8:31 Building bridges between Vietnamese hip hop and traditional media

20:02 Intergenerational stories and cultural connections in Vietnamese communities

27:12 Cultural identity through language and family connections

33:18 Cultural differences in parenting and discipline

41:07 Overcoming self-doubt through creative expression

44:38 Exploring family history and resilience through personal stories

52:04 Embracing a flagless identity among Vietnamese communities

59:06 Exploring identity and community through Vietnamese media

Find us on social media:

Instagram: @okiru.com.au

Spotify: OKIRU Rise Together

Facebook: @okiru.com.au

TikTok: @okiru.com.au

Support Our Mission

Help us share more stories! Shop OKIRU gear for yourself or a loved one to stay comfy while enjoying the podcast: Shop Now.

Hosted by Liem Nguyen and produced by Jasper Menor, co-founders of OKIRU, the OKIRU Rise Together Podcast celebrates creativity, cultural pride, and community stories.

Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! Prefer to listen on the go? Find us on Spotify and other podcast platforms!

To open 2025, OKIRU sits down with Corina Dutlow, CEO of Australian Filipino Community Services, for a conversation on culture, leadership, and the quiet power of service.

With roots in both Filipino and Romanian heritage, Corina’s journey is anything but linear. Her story is an intimate reflection on what it means to grow into leadership without losing sight of where you came from.

Across the episode, we travel through stories of migration, language, and legacy—from her father’s arrival in Australia, to the quiet but radical work of supporting elders, to the intergenerational power of dance. Corina shares how identity isn’t something you perform—it’s something you honour, pass down, and carry forward.

0:03 – From volunteer to CEO: Corina’s early years and rise in community services

7:47 – Multilingual worlds: Navigating identity through culture and communication

13:59 – Family legacy: A Romanian migrant story that shaped a daughter’s path

17:56 – Dual heritage: The beauty and complexity of living between cultures

21:07 – Caring through culture: Serving elders and community through dance

31:12 – What does it mean to be Australian, really?

38:49 – The migrant experience: Barriers, belonging, and building bridges

43:21 – Creating the Filipino Performing Arts Collective

50:38 – Intergenerational storytelling through movement

51:31 – Service-led leadership and holding space for others

Follow OKIRU on social media:

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Spotify: Listen Here

Facebook: @okiru.com.au

TikTok: @okiru.com.au

Support Our Mission

Help us share more stories! Shop OKIRU gear for yourself or a loved one to stay comfy while enjoying the podcast: Shop Now.

Hosted by Liem Nguyen and produced by Jasper Menor, co-founders of OKIRU, the OKIRU Rise Together Podcast celebrates creativity, cultural pride, and community stories.

Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! Prefer to listen on the go? Find us on Spotify and other podcast platforms!

Nam Nguyen, DJ, father and social worker, shares his journey navigating a bicultural identity as a Vietnamese Australian. He reflects on reconnecting with his family’s history by visiting a Thai refugee camp and discusses the challenges and triumphs of straddling two worlds. Highlighting themes of identity, family, and cultural tension, Nam's storytelling offers insights into the Vietnamese community's resilience and the influence of music. Join Nam and Liem for a deep dive into finding balance between cultural heritage and personal aspirations. Discover the powerful narrative that shapes Nam's life and work.

Timestamp Summary

0:00 Opening guided mindfulness exercise

10:30 Nam Nguyen: From Hobby DJ to Cultural Icon

16:24 The Evolution of DJing and Its Impact on Music Sharing

23:37 Growing Up Between Cultures: Multicultural vs. Homogeneous Communities

29:00 Navigating a Hybrid Identity as a Vietnamese Australian

32:45 The Search for Home: What Cultural Identity Really Means

34:35 Family, Tradition, and Change: Modern Vietnam's Cultural Shifts

36:00 Does Culture Shape Happiness? Different Perspectives Explored

36:57 Privilege & Intergenerational Trauma: When Cultures Clash

39:10 Food as a Language of Love and Connection

40:03 Straddling Two Worlds: The Challenges of Identity and Belonging

44:52 Retracing My Family's Roots and Embracing Vietnamese Identity

53:47 Solo Travel Through Vietnam & Thailand: Finding Myself in Culture

57:17 Emotional Return to Samila Beach: A Refugee’s Journey Home

1:03:44 The Struggles of Vietnamese Australian Identity and Belonging

1:10:37 Vietnamese Hip Hop: Its Rise and Cultural Influence

1:14:00 Rediscovering Vietnamese Roots in a Fast-Changing World

1:19:29 How Vietnamese Artists Are Changing the Music Industry

1:23:37 Balancing Tradition, Happiness, and Self-Discovery

Follow OKIRU on social media:

Instagram: @okiru.com.au

Spotify: Listen Here

Facebook: @okiru.com.au

TikTok: @okiru.com.au

💡 Support Our Mission

Help us share more stories! Shop OKIRU gear for yourself or a loved one to stay comfy while enjoying the podcast: Shop Now.

🎙️ Hosted by Liem Nguyen and produced by Jasper Menor, co-founders of OKIRU, the OKIRU Rise Together Podcast celebrates creativity, cultural pride, and community stories.

🔔 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! Prefer to listen on the go? Find us on Spotify and other podcast platforms!

In this heartfelt episode of the OKIRU Rise Together Podcast, Liem sits down with Selba Gondoza-Luka, a mental health advocate and founder of Afri Aus-Care. Selba shares her journey from Malawi to Australia, detailing the challenges she overcame—postnatal depression, homelessness, and settlement struggles—and how these experiences inspired her mission to uplift the African Australian community.

Together, they explore the philosophy of Ubuntu, the impact of intergenerational trauma, and practical community healing practices. Selba discusses Afri Aus-Care's work, from youth engagement through sports to empowering African mothers, offering holistic support through mental health counseling, mentorship, and cultural education.

This episode dives deep into the intersections of individual and collective healing, gentle parenting, and fostering thriving multicultural communities. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, Ubuntu values, and the power of community in navigating settlement challenges.

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions about mental health challenges and suicidal thoughts, which may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care while listening.

Chapters:

0:00 Selba Gondoza Luka's Journey to Empower African Australians

2:33 Overcoming Loss and Mental Health Challenges in a New Country

13:46 Empowering African Australians Through Community Support and Ubuntu Practice

25:54 Empowering African Communities Through Ubuntu Ambassadors in Australia

31:45 Supporting Young People Through Prehabilitation and Rehabilitation Programs

37:35 Gentle Parenting and the Positive Change Model

40:14 Healing Through Service and Overcoming Mental Health Challenges

52:26 Balancing Ubuntu Values and Western Individualism in Multicultural Societies

58:59 Ubuntu Values and Building Trust in Community and Family

1:10:45 Empowering Youth Through Ubuntu and Community Support

Follow OKIRU on social media:

Instagram: @okiru.com.au

Spotify: Listen Here

Facebook: @okiru.com.au

TikTok: @okiru.com.au

💡 Support Our Mission

Help us share more stories! Shop OKIRU gear for yourself or a loved one to stay comfy while enjoying the podcast: Shop Now.

🎙️ Hosted by Liem Nguyen and produced by Jasper Menor, co-founders of OKIRU, the OKIRU Rise Together Podcast celebrates creativity, cultural pride, and community stories.

🔔 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! Prefer to listen on the go? Find us on Spotify and other podcast platforms!

Liem sits down with Oanh Thi Tran, Commissioner of the Fair Work Commission, to share her extraordinary journey from a Vietnamese refugee to a trailblazer in the Australian legal system.

Oanh opens up about her family’s escape from Vietnam in the 1980s, their settlement in Australia, and how these formative experiences shaped her passion for social justice and workplace fairness. She also recounts her unexpected path into law and her inspiring nine-month cycling adventure through Europe and North Africa. This heartfelt conversation explores themes of migration, career growth, and making a difference in the community.

Chapters:

0:00:00 - Introduction of Oanh Thi Tran, Fair Work Commissioner

0:00:25 - Mindfulness Exercise: Breathing and Awareness

0:07:49 - Addressing Burnout in a Sedentary Job

0:08:05 - Importance of Taking Breaks

0:14:30 - Story Behind Oanh's Name

0:14:57 - Meaning of Oanh's Name

0:19:20 - Family Journey as Vietnamese Refugees

0:26:27 - Journey to the Sea: Family Trauma

0:32:45 - Nine-Month Bicycle Journey Through Europe

0:39:15 - Cycling Experience in Morocco

0:43:09 - Communication Skills in Foreign Lands

0:48:54 - Goodwill in Communication

0:57:51 - Role of the Fair Work Commission

1:12:30 - Networking Experience and Connections

1:18:18 - Reflection on Values and Career Progression

1:20:10 - Balancing Work and Personal Life

Find us on social media:

Instagram: @okiru.com.au

Spotify: Listen Now

Facebook: @okiru.com.au

TikTok: @okiru.com.au

Support the OKIRU Collective!

Help us share more incredible stories by grabbing unique OKIRU gear that keeps you comfy while you enjoy the podcast:

👉 Shop Now: www.okiru.com.au

Hosted by Liem Nguyen and produced by Jasper Menor, co-founders of OKIRU, the OKIRU Rise Together Podcast celebrates resilience, creativity, and cultural pride.

🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories! Prefer listening on the go? Find us on Spotify and other major podcast platforms!

Liem sits down with Mamuch Chuol, CEO and Founder of NextGen Unite to explore themes of generational trauma, the resettlement journey of South Sudanese refugees in Australia, and the transformative power of community sports. Mamuch shares his journey, the pivotal role of mentors in his life, and his vision to empower future generations. They also delve into the challenges and triumphs of organising community events and using hip hop and sports as tools for social change. Join Liem and Mamuch for an insightful conversation on culture, resilience, and community building.

Summary:

0:00 | Grounded in Mindfulness & Cultural Roots

11:25 | Building Bridges: Networking and Unlikely Connections

13:49 | Race to Success: The Power of Mindset

17:17 | Game-Changers: South Sudanese Women, Football, & Mental Health

19:34 | Unity in Action: Community Support for South Sudanese Youth

24:59 | Changing the Narrative: South Sudanese Community through Sport

27:15 | Healing Together: Resilience Through Collective Support

30:43 | Uniting Cultures Through Australian Rules Football

33:01 | Turning Challenges into Inspiration for Youth

34:56 | Community Connection & Integration through Football

42:25 | Generational Bonds & Love in the South Sudanese Community

50:14 | Music, Mentorship, & Empowerment

56:29 | Conflict Resolution & Youth Empowerment

1:00:00 | Tackling Community Challenges Together

1:07:44 | Dreaming Big: A Vision of Leading South Sudan

1:13:08 | From Refugee Camp to Australia: A Journey of Gratitude

1:16:12 | Empowerment Through Learning from Mistakes

Find us on social media:

Instagram: @okiru.com.au

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3rOi6HO

Facebook: @okiru.com.au

Tiktok: @okiru.com.au

Help us share more stories and join the OKIRU Collective by grabbing yourself or a loved one unique OKIRU gear that will keep you comfy while you watch the podcast:

Shop Now 👇

http://www.okiru.com.au

🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories!

Prefer to listen on the go? Find this episode on Spotify and other podcast platforms!

Hosted by Liem Nguyen and produced by Jasper Menor, co-founders of OKIRU and passionate advocates for cultural representation, the OKIRU Rise Together Podcast shares stories of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride.

In this episode of the OKIRU Rise Together, hosts Liem and Fhred dive into a candid conversation with Jamal Hakim, who is running for Lord Mayor of Melbourne. Hakim shares his vision of inclusivity and plans for the City of Melbourne but also touches on topics such as anime, karaoke, and the game Animal Crossing. This episode provides a refreshing perspective on the interconnections between local politics and everyday life which hopefully makes politics accessible for young listeners.

Throughout the conversation, Jamal emphasises the significance of local council elections and why young people should involve themselves in political processes. Using the lens of Melbourne's unique dynamic, with its large young population and cultural diversity, Jamal highlights the broad responsibilities of local councils, extending beyond roads, rates, and rubbish. Addressing global issues like housing affordability and representing multicultural and LGBTQ+ communities, he advocates for a more transparent, inclusive approach in governance.

Summary:

0:00 Jamal Hakim's Run for Lord Mayor and Youth Political Engagement

5:43 Navigating COVID Challenges and Netflix Escapes

10:06 Understanding Local Council Responsibilities Through Animal Crossing

14:47 Public-Private Partnerships for Affordable Housing Solutions

17:07 The Multifaceted Role and Responsibilities of a Lord Mayor

19:51 Creating Inclusive Spaces for Queer Identity in Melbourne

21:51 Cultural Identity, Anime, and Politics in Australia

26:34 Lebanese Migration, Career Paths, and Family Support

29:48 Celebrating Rice Diversity and Jamal Hakim's Mayoral Candidacy

31:09 Jamal Hakim's Vision for Inclusive Political Change

33:39 Balut, Karaoke, and Cultural Representation in a Lighthearted Chat

35:56 Transparency and Funding Challenges in Lord Mayor Campaigns

41:44 Campaign Strategies, Personal Growth, and Energy Vampires

51:48 Jamal Hakim's Vision for a Transparent and Inclusive Melbourne

55:57 Jamal Hakim Discusses Business, Politics, and Karaoke

Find us on social media:

Instagram: @okiru.com.au

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3rOi6HO

Facebook: @okiru.com.au

Tiktok: @okiru.com.au

Help us share more stories and join the Okiru Collective by grabbing yourself or a loved one unique OKIRU gear that will keep you comfy while you watch the podcast:

Shop Now 👇

http://www.okiru.com.au

🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories!

Prefer to listen on the go? Find this episode on Spotify and other podcast platforms!

Hosted by Liem Nguyen and produced by Jasper Menor, co-founders of OKIRU and passionate advocate for cultural representation, the OKIRU Rise Together Podcast shares stories of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride.

Join Alex Monteiro, founder of High Tea Sessions and co-founder of Liberation Group, as he explores Melbourne’s doof culture, the power of community, and his deep connection to his Portuguese heritage. Dive into the thrilling underground party scene, the transformative practices of breathwork and meditation, and the creative vision behind Liberation and High Tea Sessions. Through stories of late-night events, cultural influences, and his philosophy of freedom and expression, Alex offers unique insights into crafting unforgettable experiences. Tune in for an inspiring conversation blending cultural identity, music, and personal growth.

Chapters:

0:00 Exploring Doof Culture and Cultural Heritage with Alex Monteiro

2:32 Guided Meditation for Relaxation and Breath Awareness

8:29 Exploring Breathwork and Its Impact on Mindfulness

12:41 Creating Safe and Secretive Underground Parties

17:48 Managing Events Respectfully to Maintain Positive Atmosphere

19:06 A Teen's First Underground Party Experience at Bradmill

22:53 Liberation Events: A Space for Self-Expression and Community Connection

25:01 Creating a Daytime Festival Experience with High Tea Brand

28:29 The Challenges and Beauty of Integrating Live Acts in Clubs

32:58 Creating Daytime Doof Vibes in Melbourne's Local Bars

35:03 The Diverse Sounds and Personalities of Liberation DJs

41:09 Dreaming of Hosting a Transformative Three-Day Doof Festival

42:53 Johnny Gibbs: The Versatile DJ and Financial Controller

44:56 Alex Montero's Upcoming Creative Event at Doctor Morse

48:11 The Joy and Challenges of Organising Summer Doof Events

51:44 Growing Up in a Portuguese Family in Melbourne

58:03 The Allure and Freedom of Doof Culture

1:01:35 Bringing Babies to Festivals and Exposing Them to Culture

1:02:48 The Liberating and Transformative Experience of Festival Culture

1:07:00 Connecting Through High Tea Sessions and Social Media

Find us on social media:

Instagram: @okiru.com.au

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3rOi6HO

Facebook: @okiru.com.au

Tiktok: @okiru.com.au

Help us share more stories and join the Okiru Collective by grabbing yourself or a loved one unique OKIRU gear that will keep you comfy while you watch the podcast:

Shop Now 👇

http://www.okiru.com.au

🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories!

Prefer to listen on the go? Find this episode on Spotify and other podcast platforms!

Hosted by Liem Nguyen and produced by Jasper Menor, co-founders of OKIRU and passionate advocate for cultural representation, the OKIRU Rise Together Podcast shares stories of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride.

Elevating Filipino Cuisine & Mental Health in Kitchens | Chef Fred Batalona | OKIRU Rise Together Podcast

In this episode, Chef Fred Batalona joins the podcast to share his inspiring journey of elevating Filipino cuisine in Melbourne through his two culinary ventures, Barangay and Palay. Fred opens up about battling impostor syndrome, the challenges of running pop-up dining experiences, and his innovative approach to fusing traditional Filipino flavors with modern fine dining.

Beyond food, Fred is on a mission to promote mental health awareness in the Filipino chef community through his Kalma initiative. He talks about collaborating with renowned chefs, the importance of mental well-being in high-pressure kitchen environments, and his vision for increasing the visibility of Filipino culture on a global stage.

Chapters:

0:00 Exploring Filipino Cuisine and Mental Health with Chef Fred

5:28 Elevating Filipino Cuisine Through Modern Presentations and Collaborations

8:55 Launching A Filipino-Themed Event Amidst COVID Challenges

13:38 Immersive Filipino Cultural Events Featuring Cuisine, Fashion, and Music

16:28 Taking a Leap of Faith to Showcase Filipino Culture

23:42 Exploring Filipino Cuisine and Cultural Representation Through Food

33:00 Elevating Filipino Cuisine in Melbourne Against All Odds

36:41 The Evolution and Elevation of Filipino Cuisine in Melbourne

42:30 Collaborating with Celebrity Chefs and Modern Filipino Cuisine

46:12 Mental Health Challenges in the Hospitality Industry

53:38 Navigating the Challenges of Running a Filipino Pop-Up Restaurant

1:01:34 Chef Fred's Journey from Pastry to Creative Ventures

Find us on social media:

Instagram: @okiru.com.au

Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3rOi6HO

Facebook: @okiru.com.au

Tiktok: @okiru.com.au

Help us share more stories and join the Okiru Collective by grabbing yourself or a loved one unique OKIRU gear that will keep you comfy while you watch the podcast:

Shop Now 👇

http://www.okiru.com.au

🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories!

Prefer to listen on the go? Find this episode on Spotify and other podcast platforms!

Hosted by Liem Nguyen and produced by Jasper Menor, co-founders of OKIRU and passionate advocate for cultural representation, the OKIRU Rise Together Podcast shares stories of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride.

👉 Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll dive deeper into the concept of "between two worlds"!

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