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!