OKIRU: Rise Together

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

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Facebook: @okiru.com.au

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Shop Now 👇

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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"!

#FilipinoCuisine #MentalHealthAwareness #OKIRUPodcast #MelbourneFoodScene #ChefLife #FilipinoCulture #culture #melbourne #betweentwoworlds

Thad Mangalino is a performance coach, motivational speaker, podcaster and writer for the Philippine Times. In this episode, we dive deep into the unique journey of growing up as Filipinos in Australia, sharing the richness of our cultural upbringings and exploring the mindset needed to nurture your best self. Discover the invaluable tools we've uncovered to navigate life's challenges.

If you're craving authentic stories about culture, community, and the lived experiences of our vibrant Filipino community, this podcast is your sanctuary. Join us as we unite, rise, and celebrate our collective journey.

Join us as we rise up and rise together!

You can find the full summary of this episode by clicking the link below 👇

https://videohighlight.com/video/summary/pj3kZwOsKMA

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You can also 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

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About Us

OKIRU Collective is more than just clothes and designs we adore. Our mission is to share the untold stories of those who've lived through hardships and glories, inspired by migration waves that overlap. Our founders strive to empower and map a journey towards mastering one's universe.

Through sharing tales from diverse backgrounds, we delve deep into personal identities found. We believe that everyone has a unique story to tell, to share, to feel its full glory. We know life's struggles, the pain and strife, mental and physical health battles rife.

So we motivate you to push through the fight, to "Get Up" when knocked down, to ignite a courage to begin, strength to perform, and perseverance to keep going, no matter the storm.

OKIRU represents belief in oneself and kindness to others, a valuable wealth.

Liem guides us through a short 10-minute guided meditation to help us settle into the conversation. We begin the meditation by focusing on our breath, the life force that gives us energy and helps ground us into the present moment. For those who live busy lives and are constantly on the grind, focus on finding 10% more relaxation. The small adjustments can help you greatly no matter what you do.

You can find the full summary of this episode by clicking the link below 👇

https://videohighlight.com/video/summary/pj3kZwOsKMA

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You can also 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

-

About Us

OKIRU Collective is more than just clothes and designs we adore. Our mission is to share the untold stories of those who've lived through hardships and glories, inspired by migration waves that overlap. Our founders strive to empower and map a journey towards mastering one's universe.

Through sharing tales from diverse backgrounds, we delve deep into personal identities found. We believe that everyone has a unique story to tell, to share, to feel its full glory. We know life's struggles, the pain and strife, mental and physical health battles rife.

So we motivate you to push through the fight, to "Get Up" when knocked down, to ignite a courage to begin, strength to perform, and perseverance to keep going, no matter the storm.

OKIRU represents belief in oneself and kindness to others, a valuable wealth.

Are you ready to dive into a world of self-development, culture, and community? Join us on OKIRU: Rise Together, a podcast that's here to warmly welcome young hearts in Australia and all over the globe. We're your Melbourne-based companions on a mission to unite communities through the power of storytelling.

In this special episode, we catch up with the creative minds behind our podcast: Jasper Menor, Gerald Prado, and Liem Nguyen. Together, we're at TISIRI in North Coburg, ready to share our journeys and insights with you.

Jasper kicks things off by sharing his bold leap into full-time entrepreneurship, offering a glimpse into the highs, lows, and invaluable lessons along the way. Our candid conversation also delves into the past few months, when we faced burnout head-on and discovered the path to rejuvenation.

But that's not all! We're delighted to introduce you to our special guest, Yussef Elleissy, the brains behind Indulge Waffles and Frogo. At the age of 19, while studying astrophysics, he embarked on a remarkable journey to start his own business. His story is a testament to the incredible possibilities that await when you chase your dreams.

This episode is just a taste of the exciting new formats we're exploring, and we can't wait to share more with you in our upcoming projects. The future holds endless opportunities, and we're thrilled to reveal them soon.

So, dear listener, stay tuned to OKIRU: Rise Together. We're here to empower, inspire, and build connections that last a lifetime. Together, we'll rise, grow, and celebrate the beauty of self-development, culture, and community. Your journey begins here, with us.

You can also 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

About Us

OKIRU Collective is more than just clothes and designs we adore. Our mission is to share the untold stories of those who've lived through hardships and glories, inspired by migration waves that overlap. Our founders strive to empower and map a journey towards mastering one's universe.

Through sharing tales from diverse backgrounds, we delve deep into personal identities found. We believe that everyone has a unique story to tell, to share, to feel its full glory. We know life's struggles, the pain and strife, mental and physical health battles rife.

So we motivate you to push through the fight, to "Get Up" when knocked down, to ignite a courage to begin, strength to perform, and perseverance to keep going, no matter the storm.

OKIRU represents belief in oneself and kindness to others, a valuable wealth.

Join us for a heartwarming episode on OKIRU: Rise Together, as we celebrate the enriching journey of self-development and multiculturalism with Bou, a proud Māori man. His vibrant culture forms the bedrock of his identity, providing deep-rooted safety and understanding of his place in the world. We're thrilled to share how Māori culture blesses him with so much wisdom and empowerment.

Explore the captivating concept of intersectionality as Bou opens up about his experiences as a queer man and an Indigenous individual. His story resonates with authenticity, offering profound insights into the beautiful complexities that shape us.

Kickstart this extraordinary episode with a moment of mindfulness through guided meditation, allowing you to connect with your inner self. Let the serenity and peace flow through you as you embark on this empowering journey of self-discovery.

As we delve into the heart of our conversation, we pause to honour and appreciate the rich heritage of Australia's First Nations people. A heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country sets the stage for a thoughtful exploration of our shared cultural tapestry.

Calling all young souls who seek connection, community, and growth! Join us on the OKIRU: Rise Together podcast as we embrace diversity, foster self-discovery, and celebrate the power of culture. Bou's heartfelt story will leave you feeling welcomed and inspired.

So tune in now, and together, let's navigate the depths of self-awareness, multiculturalism, and the essence of community. We extend our arms wide to welcome you on this transformative journey. Let's thrive together with open hearts and minds!

You can also 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

About Us

OKIRU Collective is more than just clothes and designs we adore. Our mission is to share the untold stories of those who've lived through hardships and glories, inspired by migration waves that overlap. Our founders strive to empower and map a journey towards mastering one's universe.

Through sharing tales from diverse backgrounds, we delve deep into personal identities found. We believe that everyone has a unique story to tell, to share, to feel its full glory. We know life's struggles, the pain and strife, mental and physical health battles rife.

So we motivate you to push through the fight, to "Get Up" when knocked down, to ignite a courage to begin, strength to perform, and perseverance to keep going, no matter the storm.

OKIRU represents belief in oneself and kindness to others, a valuable wealth.

Welcome to a Mindful Journey: Embrace Your Inner Self

Embark on a transformative podcast experience that truly "hits different." Join Liem and Bou as they lead you through a blissful meditation journey, designed to nurture your self-development and connect you with the heart of Melbourne's vibrant community and rich multiculturalism.

As you settle into the podcast, Bou shares their profound experience after meditating with Liem – a moment that sparked self-discovery and growth. Together, we'll explore a simple yet powerful practice, fostering an awareness of your body and its place in space. Known as proprioception, this gentle guidance will ground you in the present moment.

Next, we turn our focus inward, exploring the art of interoception – recognizing the subtle movements of our breath, something we all do unconsciously, but can now embrace consciously. This mindful practice brings us closer to our true selves, igniting the flames of self-awareness and personal growth.

And that's not all! Liem thoughtfully includes an Acknowledgement of the Country, a heartfelt recognition honouring the ancestral land of First Nations people. Together, we embrace and celebrate the rich cultural diversity that makes Melbourne truly special.

This podcast is your haven if you're a young soul seeking a welcoming space to cultivate self-development, meditation, and a deeper connection with community and culture. Liem and Bou warmly invite you to join this mindful journey of self-discovery, where we celebrate our shared humanity and embrace the beauty of multiculturalism.

Tune in now and immerse yourself in the magic of "Embrace Your Inner Self." Let's grow, learn, and rise together with open hearts and minds. Welcome to the mindful revolution!

Welcome to OKIRU: Rise Together! Join us as we dive into the transformative practice of Metta meditation, also known as loving-kindness meditation. Originating from Buddhist traditions, this practice nurtures compassion and goodwill towards oneself and others, fostering a sense of interconnectedness.

In this enlightening episode, Liem, our experienced guide, leads us through a short yet impactful Metta meditation practice. Discover the power of directing feelings of love towards individuals, groups, and all beings. By repeating affirmations like "May I be happy," this practice promotes empathy, reduces stress, and enhances emotional well-being.

Explore how Metta meditation strengthens social connections, fosters resilience, and cultivates a more compassionate world. Engage in this practice to nurture personal growth and the development of loving-kindness within yourself.

Subscribe to OKIRU: Rise Together for more empowering episodes featuring guided meditations, mindfulness practices, and discussions on personal growth and well-being.

Engage with us by sharing your experiences and insights in the comments section. Like, rate, and share this episode with others who are seeking to enhance their emotional well-being, develop compassion, and cultivate a more compassionate world.

Tune in to OKIRU: Rise Together and embark on a transformative journey towards cultivating compassion and fostering personal growth through Metta meditation. Together, let's create a world rooted in love and kindness. #MettaMeditation #Compassion #EmotionalWellbeing

Welcome to OKIRU: Rise Together! In this engaging episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Anzari Atik, a PhD in Neuroscience, Yoga Teacher, Running Community Leader, and a dear friend of our podcast. Anzari leads weekly classes at Assembly Yoga and spearheads a vibrant run club in Williamstown every Wednesday morning at 7 am. Joining her is Kano Ravalji, a passionate advocate for youth and multiculturalism, who was honoured as the VicHealth Future Changemaker Award's inaugural prize winner.

In this captivating conversation, we explore the rich experiences of Anzari and Kano, growing up as migrant children in Australia. They share profound insights into the sacrifices their parents made, granting them the privilege of a life filled with opportunities. Beyond that, we delve into fascinating topics like gaming, the deeper meaning of 'namaste' in yoga, and the impactful community work that both Kano and Anzari are involved in.

Don't miss this thought-provoking episode as we navigate the complexities of identity, cultural integration, and the power of community. Gain valuable perspectives from these inspiring individuals who are making a difference in the lives of others.

For more enlightening episodes and captivating conversations, make sure to follow and subscribe to OKIRU: Rise Together on Spotify and other podcast platforms.

Visit our website okiru.com.au to learn more about our podcast and access additional resources related to the topics discussed in this episode.

Join the discussion by sharing your thoughts and personal experiences in the comments section. Help us spread the word by liking, rating, and sharing this episode with others who appreciate inspiring stories of resilience, community impact, and cultural diversity.

Tune in to OKIRU: Rise Together and be part of the conversation that celebrates the vibrant tapestry of human experiences. Together, let's inspire, connect, and create positive change so that we can Rise Together!

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Timestamps:

00:00- Understanding Cultural Identity and the Migrant Experience

08:50-Meditation and Yoga Practice

12:40-Sharing Family History

15:26-Growing up in Fiji and moving to Australia

21:50-Finding Identity as a Minority

27:09-Finding Belonging in Yoga

33:25-Yoga, Appropriation, and Cultural Connection

37:21-Connecting Business with Culture

39:12-Discovering Filipino Culture

44:41-Traditional Wedding and Connecting with Culture

51:17-Moving to a New Country

54:35-Choosing Your Own Path

56:03-Appreciating Family

57:15-The Shifting Definition of Success

01:00:27-Connecting with Culture as Empowerment

01:03:11-Reconnecting with Fijian Indian Culture

01:05:13-Learning About Language and Cultural Understanding

01:08:35-Inclusion and Community Work

01:11:55-Learning from Others' Experiences

01:14:26-What Community Means to Them

01:18:12-Three Rapid Fire Questions

01:19:34-Conclusion and Contact Information

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📱Socials:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/okiru.com.au/

Spotify:

https://spoti.fi/3rOi6HO

Facebook:

https://m.facebook.com/okiru.com.au/

Tiktok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@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

OKIRU Collective, a brand that's more

Than just clothes and designs we adore

Their missions to share the untold stories

Of those who've lived through hardships and glories

Inspired by migration waves that overlap

Their founders strive to empower and map

A journey towards mastering one's universe

A path they're on, they want you to traverse

Through sharing tales from diverse backgrounds

They delve deep into personal identities found

Believing that everyone has a unique story

To tell, to share, to feel its full glory

They know life's struggles, the pain and strife

Mental and physical health battles rife

So they motivate you to push through the fight

To "Get Up" when knocked down, to ignite

A courage to begin, strength to perform

Perseverance to keep going, no matter the storm

OKIRU represents belief in oneself

And kindness to others, a valuable wealth.

Maiysha Moin is a 4th year law student at Monash University. She is currently going through a deep journey to uncover her identity and what type of person she is and wants to become.

We talk about her role in the School's Strike for Climate, privilege and stories of uncovering her cultural identity and what that means to her. Maiysha shares her journey into relearning her mother tongue and other stories.

00:00-Introduction

04:59-Stories of Culture

10:49-Meditation and Identity

18:23-Becoming a Climate Activist

23:40-Family and Upbringing

24:47-Moving to Australia and Losing Connection with Community

30:02-Being South Asian at School

31:04-Feeling Alienated

33:07-Rediscovering Culture

37:10-Reflection on Multicultural Identity

43:47-Learning Bengali and Hindi

50:02-Learning New Languages

56:27-Importance of Cultural Identity

01:01:18-Advice for Young South Asian Women

01:02:42-Challenges of Identity

01:07:13-Advocating for Diversity

01:09:04-Reflection on Identity and Purpose

01:11:40-The Significance of Names in Cultural Identity

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This is part of our special series of speaking with young multicultural leaders in Australia and part of organisations such as the Centre of Multicultural Youth. Follow their journey and hear their stories as we connect their lived experience to our community.

Let's make every effort to show kindness to one another and let's Rise Together! OKIRU!

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📱Socials:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/okiru.com.au/

Spotify:

https://spoti.fi/3rOi6HO

Facebook:

https://m.facebook.com/okiru.com.au/

Tiktok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@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

OKIRU Collective, a brand that's more

Than just clothes and designs we adore

Their missions to share the untold stories

Of those who've lived through hardships and glories

Inspired by migration waves that overlap

Their founders strive to empower and map

A journey towards mastering one's universe

A path they're on, they want you to traverse

Through sharing tales from diverse backgrounds

They delve deep into personal identities found

Believing that everyone has a unique story

To tell, to share, to feel its full glory

They know life's struggles, the pain and strife

Mental and physical health battles rife

So they motivate you to push through the fight

To "Get Up" when knocked down, to ignite

A courage to begin, strength to perform

Perseverance to keep going, no matter the storm

OKIRU represents belief in oneself

And kindness to others, a valuable wealth.

Welcome to our podcast! Join us on a transformative journey as we dive into a profound 'I Am' guided meditation designed to enhance personal growth and self-discovery. In this immersive episode, we provide expert guidance to help you establish a harmonious connection between your body and mind, while cultivating mindfulness through focused breathing techniques.

Uncover the deeper meaning of your name and unlock your true potential through the repetition of short yet powerful mantras that resonate with your being. This transformative practice allows you to tap into a deeper level of self-awareness and explore the depths of your true essence.

Immerse yourself in this guided meditation experience, perfect for your moments of reflection and self-care. Tune in and embark on a journey of self-exploration that will leave you feeling centered, enlightened, and connected to your inner self.

Subscribe to our podcast for more empowering episodes, featuring guided meditations and insightful discussions aimed at enhancing your personal well-being.

Remember to follow, rate, and share this episode with others who are seeking personal growth and self-discovery. Don't miss out on this opportunity to embark on a transformative journey towards self-transformation.