The Hello Frequency

The Hello Frequency Podcast acknowledges the Tainui people of the Waikato region, where it was recorded. Respects to elders past, present, and emerging. 

Welcome to The Hello Frequency, My Dear Listeners: I am your host, Caya. 

Nakshi Kantha of Empathy: Weaving Bengali and Tamil Cultures Through Nakshi Kantha & Community Work

"In this episode, we journey into the threads of Nakshi Kantha, a traditional form of embroidered quilting that binds stories, cultures, and communities. My guest, Sahana Rahman, and I explore how crafting, whether through embroidery or crocheting, can serve as a powerful medium for making sense of cultural connections within the diaspora. We dive into the beauty of weaving Bengali and Tamil traditions, discovering the unique expressions that arise from blending these rich cultural heritages.

Through conversations on art therapy, cultural activism, and the joy of reconnecting authentically with our traditions, we share how creativity became a lifeline during the pandemic. For Sahana, Nakshi Kantha is more than an art form; it’s a way to decolonise, heal, and come together. For me, it represents one of the most profound ways to build collective consciousness through empathy.  

Join us as we celebrate the vibrant expressions of South Asian embroidery techniques and embrace art as a path to solidarity and self-discovery."

#NakshiKantha #EmbroideredQuilt #Crocheting #MakingSenseOfCulturalConnectionsInTheDiaspora #ConnectingWithYourCultureAuthentically #WeavingBegaliAndTamilCulturesInNakshiKantha #ExploringDifferentSouthAisanEmbroideryTechniques #FoundMyUniqueExpressionOfKanthaDuringThePandemic #ArtTherapy #CulturalActivism #ComingTogetherThroughArtIsMyWayOfDecolonising  

Citation

© Divakalala, C & Rahman, S. (2024). Nakshi Kantha of Empathy: Weaving Bengali and Tamil Cultures Through Nakshi Kantha & Community Work. The Hello Frequency, A Lifestyle Podcast. 

Remember, in a world where discord echoes loudly, let empathy be our pluriversal language! 

The Hello Frequency Podcast acknowledges the Tainui people of the Waikato region, where it was recorded. Respects to elders past, present, and emerging. 

Welcome to The Hello Frequency, My Dear Listeners: I am your host, Caya. 

This episode sheds light on the vibrant cultural activism that shaped some personal and collective journeys in post-war Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Joined by my guest, Diotima, we explore the importance of diversifying social spaces, drawing on social justice movements and initiatives such as creating a mixed-gender cricket team in Jaffna. Through our conversation, we reflect on the deep connections formed by building communities, supporting one another's paths, and learning to communicate across differences.

We emphasise the significance of honesty in conversations, not just on a personal level, but also for creating collective shifts. We also touch on cultural nuances, from respecting boundaries and cultural differences to embracing unexpected topics, like the perspectives of meat-eating Hindu Brahmins and how this intersects with identity and belonging. Through these reflections, we uncover the power of being comfortable in relationships despite differences, and how true respect for others leads to stronger, more inclusive communities and relationships, such as our friendship. 

#RecollectingMemoriesOfCulturalActivism #DiversifyingSocialSpaces #OneBillionRising #CreatingAMixedGenderCricketTeamInJaffnaSriLanka #BuildingCommunities #SupportingOneAnother'sJourneys #LearningToCommunicateOurDifferences #ValueHonestConversations #PowerToHonestyAndCollectiveShifts #BeingRespectfulOfCulturalDifferences #RespectingBoundaries #MeatEatingHindusBrahmins #BeingComfortableInRelationships 

 Citation

© Divakalala, C. (2024). Echoes of Activism and Friendship: Memories from Jaffna, Sri Lanka. The Hello Frequency, A Lifestyle Podcast. 

Remember, in a world where discord echoes loudly, let empathy be our pluriversal language! 

The Hello Frequency Podcast acknowledges the Tainui people of the Waikato region, where it was recorded. Respects to elders past, present, and emerging. 

Welcome to The Hello Frequency, My Dear Listeners: I am your host, Caya. 

In this enlightening episode of The Hello Frequency, join me and my guest, Ben the Femme, as we embark on a transformative exploration of empathy's cosmic dimensions. We delve deep into the threads of takatāpui and queer wisdom, individual and collective whakapapa, and the interconnectedness of all living and non-living things, honouring the values that ground us. We uncover the mauri life force that sparks all relationships, bridging cultural understandings and cyclical, ongoing connections with the cosmos. Together, we reflect on the energetic essence contained in everything, exploring how empathy spans generations and ignites the intuitive knowledge needed for liberation and unity across diverse communities. We share a sense of magical histories in the making. This conversation is a journey of wisdom, spiritual magic, intergenerational learning, and the power of collective liberation for all. 

Tune in as we honour Māori experiences, celebrate non-monolithic interpretations of Matariki, and invite all wonderful souls to join us in the creation of a more empathetic, connected world. Let’s co-create cosmical magic, YES, it is a thing :)

#HaerengaTereina #TrainJourneys #MagicalHistoriesInTheMaking #TakatāpuiQueerWisdom #HonourMyWhakapapa #HowDoYouInstilEmpathyInAChild #TheValuesThatGroundUsAsPeople #WonderfulSouls #TheEnergeticSparkContainedInEverything #MauriLifeForce #CosmicGenealogy #ItsAllAboutConnectionsAndRelationships #CulturalUnderstandingsOfTheWorld #CyclicalOngoingRelationshipWithTheCosmos #CosmologicalMagic #MāoriAreNotMonolithic #Matariki #ThoseInCommunityWithUs #InterGenerationalLearningAndEmpathy #FosteringIntuitiveKnowledgeBuilding #LiberationForAllPeople 

Copyright and Citation

© Divakalala, C & Kauri, B. (2024).Reciprocal Empathy: From Cosmic Genealogy to Connectedness With All. The Hello Frequency, A Lifestyle Podcast. 

Remember, in a world where discord echoes loudly, let empathy be our pluriversal language! 

The Hello Frequency Podcast acknowledges the Tainui people of the Waikato region, where it was recorded. Respects to elders past, present, and emerging. 

Welcome to The Hello Frequency, My Dear Listeners: I am your host, Caya. 

In this thought-provoking episode, Kyle and I explore the intricate weaving of Kotahitanga, where unity is forged through an appreciation of diverse backgrounds, the powerful narratives of queer people of colour, and celebrations of resilience and pride. We discuss the transformative potential of empathy over competitiveness in fostering genuine solidarity and the importance of understanding Tangata Whenua in the context of Aotearoa. Empathy is one of the foundational practices in building meaningful and horizontal solidarities, emphasising collaboration over competition, and supporting each other’s journeys beyond the apparent power relationships that exist in the intersections. We also discuss the need to bridge cultural gaps by seeking more information and breaking down barriers through effective cross-cultural communication, we aim to highlight the significance of building genuine, empathetic, and respectful relationships that transcend rigid practices and foster a deeper sense of togetherness.   

#Kotahitanga #Unity #Togetherness #Solidarity #PeopleOfColour #QueerPeopleOfColour #FindingsWaysToEmpathiseBeyondTheLimitationsDueToRigidPractices #EmpathyOverCompetitiveness #UnderstandingTangataWhenua #TangataTiriti #BuildingGenuineRelationships #CrossCulturalCommunicationsAndUnderstandings #ListenNow #HappyListening🌟🎙️🌱🌍💖 

Copyright and Citation

© Divakalala, C. (2024).Empathy Over Competitiveness: A New Approach to Solidarity. The Hello Frequency, A Lifestyle Podcast. 

Remember, in a world where discord echoes loudly, let empathy be our pluriversal language! 

The Hello Frequency Podcast acknowledges the Tainui people of the Waikato region, where it was recorded. Respects to elders past, present, and emerging. 

Welcome to The Hello Frequency, My Dear Listeners: I am your host, Caya. 

Join us on a profound journey of reminiscing our relationship of 23+ Years! In this intimate conversation, I sit down with one of my dearest friends (and oldest, though not by age), Vini/Vinita, as we weave through shared experiences, empathy, and related topics. Spanning over two decades and bridging continents, our dialogue explores the essence of empathy and its profound impact on human connections. Vini sheds light on how empathy resonates within my podcast’s diverse narratives and delves into other crucial themes intricately linked to understanding each other in today’s world. Tune in for an episode that celebrates friendship, reflects on personal growth, and honours the power of empathetic connections across time and space.

#NewPodcastEpisode #EmpathyMatters #LongTermFriendship #InspiringStories #HeartfeltConversations #GlobalConnections #EmpathyInAction #EmotionalGrowth #CelebrateRelationships #CelebrateConnections #ListenNow #HappyListening🌟🎙️🌱🌍💖 

Copyright and Citation

© Divakalala, C. (2024).Empathy Across Eras: A 23+ Year Friendship! The Hello Frequency, A Lifestyle Podcast. 

Remember, in a world where discord echoes loudly, let empathy be our pluriversal language! 

The Hello Frequency Podcast acknowledges the Tainui people of the Waikato region, where it was recorded. Respects to elders past, present, and emerging. 

In this heartfelt episode, I welcome back Rafiqah for the second time to delve deeper into the realms of spirituality and empathy. Drawing from her rich Filipino and Islamic heritage, Rafiqah shares profound insights on how understanding empathy through a spiritual lens can deepen our connections with others. We explore concepts like Pwera Usog, Tabi Tabi Po, Lamang Lupa, Diwata, Sadaqah, and Zakat, and how these traditions shape her worldviews and how she connects with others and nurtures relationships in and with solidarity. I also share my experiences and reflections, highlighting the similarities between these concepts and the non-organised, indigenous Hindu philosophies that resonate with me. This episode feels like a true collaboration, and I am deeply grateful to Rafiqah for sharing this platform with me. Her positive words about my podcast, a passion project that nourishes my life and, as the comments suggest, many others as well, mean the world to me. Join us as we listen to the hello frequency again and again ;), and embark on a journey of spiritual understanding and empathy. Rafiqah generously shared the following description to help us better understand the concepts discussed in this episode. Salamat po, Rafiqah! You are a wonderful soul💖
Pwera usog: is a belief to counter bad elements/spirits, essentially a shield against bad intentions through hexes. Babies are often the targets of bad elements so it has become a norm to say that to infants. Tabi tabi po: meaning “excuse me” or “may I please pass?". You say this in the forest or natural area, incase that you accidentally step on a duwende (dwarf), engkanto (elemental) or any one of the many beings inhabiting the forest. It's the ultimate sign of respect for the natural and spiritual world. Lamang lupa: beings that inhabit the earth. Diwata: Nature spirits or faeries. Coming from the Sanskrit phrase "Devata" meaning “goddess.”  Beng are a Mende ethnic group from the Ivory Coast, also known as Côte d'Ivoire. Jinn: According to Islam are any of a class of spirits lower than the angels. Capable of appearing in human and animal forms and influencing humankind for either good or evil. Lihi: While is a condition of pregnancy food craving. Lihí also encompasses a folk belief that whatever a woman craves during pregnancy will imprint characteristics on the child. This concept reminds us about protecting and caring for pregnant women and people. Sadaqah: In Islam, these are voluntary acts of charity that showcase generosity, love and compassion guided by faith. Whether giving a hug, a compliment food, or donations. Sadaqah can be either small or big. There is no compulsion. Zakat: An obligatory act of charity. Mandated as one of the five pillars of Islam. Focuses on compassion as well as giving to the needy. It's like almsgiving, often collected by the Muslim Ummah (community). Kulam: While associated with black magic, it's also a form of hexing rather than cursing (sumpa). Connects to the ideas of retribution and justice through a Filipino spiritual lens. In an unjust society, Kulam can be used as a defence mechanism. Mystical creatures ( kapre,  Tyanak,  Aswang/ Managgal) serve a purpose in Filipino society to remind people of the importance of sticking together and looking out for one another and the importance of respecting, protecting, and maintaining a positive relationship with the environment.
Copyright and Citation

© Abdullah, R. & Divakalala, C. (2024). Connecting Through Spirituality: Insights from Filipino and Islamic Traditions. The Hello Frequency, A Lifestyle Podcast. 

Remember, in a world where discord echoes loudly, let empathy be our pluriversal language! 

The Hello Frequency Podcast acknowledges mana whenua of Tāmaki Makaurau, where it was recorded. Respects to elders past, present, and emerging. 

Welcome to The Hello Frequency, My Dear Listeners: I am your host, Caya. 

In this episode, Sheetal and Caya dive into the evolving understanding of empathy as we grow older. They explore common misconceptions, the importance of connecting with others during difficult times, and how empathy deepens through listening. The conversation also touches on how dominant forces threaten equitable values and traditions, and the role empathy plays in understanding diverse perspectives. They emphasise the dynamic and evolving nature of empathy. They reflect on the continuous journey of learning, the importance of standing in solidarity with others, and the need to challenge systemic injustices, such as caste-based and sex, gender, and sexuality-based discrimination. 

Happy listening 🌟 🌱 🌍💖 

Copyright and Citation

© Divakalala, C. (2024). Empathy in Action: Growing, Listening, Challenging Injustices, and Transforming. The Hello Frequency, A Lifestyle Podcast. 

Remember, in a world where discord echoes loudly, let empathy be our pluriversal language! 

The Hello Frequency Podcast acknowledges the Tainui people of the Waikato region, where it was recorded. Respects to elders past, present, and emerging. 

Welcome to The Hello Frequency, My Dear Listeners: I am your host, Caya. 

In this episode, Anirudh shares personal experiences that focus on fostering empathy and ethics within business environments, which are both crucial and timely topics. We talk about the essence of Shared Values and the art of Nourishing Relationships for Decades, even when faced with physical and emotional boundaries. We speak of keeping connections alive across distances and time, and the importance of Picking up from Where We Left Off—honouring Intellectual Connections and Meaningful Relationships. 

You Cannot Have Relationships Without Empathy, whether it is in personal lives or businesses.

We reflect on the delicate process of Making Sense of Relationships That Matter, especially when grieving the loss of a loved one. Anirudh talks about the Four Pillars for Building Strong Societies, stressing the need to Talk More About Empathy and Spread Empathy in All Spaces and Across Time. 

We also discuss actionable insights on How to Be Empathetic in Your Business and what it means to uplift society by Challenging Everyday Inequities That Contribute to a Lack of Empathy. This conversation serves as a powerful reminder to foster compassion, connection, and understanding in every part of our lives. 

Happy listening 🌟 🌱 🌍💖 

Copyright and Citation

© Divakalala, C. (2024). Creating Empathetic and Ethical Businesses. The Hello Frequency, A Lifestyle Podcast. 

Remember, in a world where discord echoes loudly, let empathy be our pluriversal language! 

The Hello Frequency Podcast acknowledges the Tainui people of the Waikato region, where it was recorded. Respects to elders past, present, and emerging. 

Welcome to The Hello Frequency, My Dear Listeners: I am your host, Caya. 

Join us in this captivating episode as we delve into the world of empathy through the eyes of a talented leftist artist. Discover how art can be a powerful medium for social change and understanding, as Nuno shares his unique perspectives and experiences. Tune in for an insightful conversation that challenges conventional views and inspires a deeper connection with the world around us. 

#ArtistsOfAllKind #Leftists #Inclusivity #Understanding #Compassion #Solidarity #Connections #UnityInDiversity #FriendshipsAcrossDistance #NurturingPositiveTraits #CaringForAll #CelebratingMeaningfulRelationships 

Copyright and Citation

© Divakalala, C. (2024). Leftist Artist Take on Empathy. The Hello Frequency, A Lifestyle Podcast. 

Remember, in a world where discord echoes loudly, let empathy be our pluriversal language! 

The Hello Frequency Podcast acknowledges the Tainui people of the Waikato region, where it was recorded. Respects to elders past, present, and emerging. 

Welcome to The Hello Frequency, My Dear Listeners: I am your host, Caya. 

In this thought-provoking episode, Nishhza and I explore educational methods that emphasise understanding and compassion, focusing on #CriticalPedagogy and #CriticalEmpathy. With Nishhza’s expertise as a high school teacher, we discuss how educators can cultivate empathy through critical thinking and reflective teaching practices that are rooted in community values, uplifting #TransChlidren #PeopleOfColour, including #QueerPeopleOfColour. We also explore topics like #FindingCommunity, #SharedUnderstandings, and #TheValueOfFriendships, while recognising the impact of #DarkHistories and #DiasporasFrozenInTime, as well as the challenges stemming from inadequate support for school teachers. 

Our conversation highlights #TheImportanceOfUnderstandingContext, embracing #NonBinaries, and the power of #HoldingASafeSpaceForChildren. We emphasise the necessity of #HoldingMultipleTruthsSimultaneously to promote humanity and justice for all. This episode underscores the need to #BetterSupportForTeachers, fostering educational environments that nurture emotional intelligence and social justice. Join us for this expansive and insightful discussion. 

Happy listening!

Copyright and Citation

© Divakalala, C. (2024). Developing Critical Pedagogy on Empathy. The Hello Frequency, A Lifestyle Podcast. 

Remember, in a world where discord echoes loudly, let empathy be our pluriversal language!