OKIRU: Rise Together

OKIRU
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  • Mental Health
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Discover a captivating podcast that explores the interconnectedness of well-being, culture, and community. Join us on OKIRU: Rise Together as we embark on a journey of self-discovery, fostering personal growth, and engaging multicultural discussions. Uncover the profound connections between your inner self and the world around you. Through introspection and embracing your inner child's curiosity, you'll unlock the keys to a fulfilling life. Immerse yourself in inspiring conversations with friends, family, and influential figures who join us to share their stories. Together, we build bridges across diverse communities, cultivating a sense of unity and collective growth. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, we believe that we all possess an inner child that yearns to thrive. Don't miss out on the opportunity to rise together with us. Join OKIRU: Rise Together now and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, cultural exploration, and community empowerment. Let's shape a better future together.

  1. How Martial Arts Shaped My Creative Life with Flying Art Studios | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #72

    09/15/2025

    How Martial Arts Shaped My Creative Life with Flying Art Studios | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #72

    In this episode, we sit down with David Trí Nguyen, founder of Flying Art Studios, to explore how martial arts, film, and hip hop shaped his creative and personal journey. From navigating cultural pressures and identity, to building a filmmaking business from passion, to reclaiming Vietnamese pride, this is a conversation about resilience, purpose, and staying true to yourself. We dive into: ‣ Balancing creativity with a busy life ‣ The entrepreneurial ups and downs of building a creative business ‣ Hip hop’s influence on culture, gangs, and positive outlets ‣ The power of reclaiming names and cultural identity ‣ Gratitude, presence, and finding answers within This is more than a story about creativity — it’s about turning struggle into strength, connecting with community, and inspiring the next generation of Vietnamese Australian creatives.

    1h 33m
  2. From skater to filmmaker: Bol Mayan on culture, community & The Seed Network | OKIRU Podcast #71

    08/18/2025

    From skater to filmmaker: Bol Mayan on culture, community & The Seed Network | OKIRU Podcast #71

    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. 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!

    1h 3m
  3. How hip hop, media, and identity shape a community | Michael Husky Nguyen | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #70

    07/14/2025

    How hip hop, media, and identity shape a community | Michael Husky Nguyen | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #70

    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!

    1h 3m
  4. Hold the door open for culture | Corina Dutlow | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #69

    06/15/2025

    Hold the door open for culture | Corina Dutlow | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #69

    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: 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!

    1h 5m
  5. Between Two Worlds: The Vietnamese Australian Identity | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #68

    03/20/2025

    Between Two Worlds: The Vietnamese Australian Identity | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #68

    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!

    1h 27m
  6. Turning pain into purpose; power of ubuntu: creating collective change - OKIRU Rise Together Ep #67

    12/12/2024

    Turning pain into purpose; power of ubuntu: creating collective change - OKIRU Rise Together Ep #67

    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!

    1h 27m
  7. Refugee journey, bike packing and career mentorship with Oanh Thi Tran | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #66

    11/20/2024

    Refugee journey, bike packing and career mentorship with Oanh Thi Tran | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #66

    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!

    1h 22m
  8. Breaking Barriers: How Sports Unite Communities and Transform Lives | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #65

    10/31/2024

    Breaking Barriers: How Sports Unite Communities and Transform Lives | OKIRU Rise Together Ep #65

    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.

    1h 25m
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About

Discover a captivating podcast that explores the interconnectedness of well-being, culture, and community. Join us on OKIRU: Rise Together as we embark on a journey of self-discovery, fostering personal growth, and engaging multicultural discussions. Uncover the profound connections between your inner self and the world around you. Through introspection and embracing your inner child's curiosity, you'll unlock the keys to a fulfilling life. Immerse yourself in inspiring conversations with friends, family, and influential figures who join us to share their stories. Together, we build bridges across diverse communities, cultivating a sense of unity and collective growth. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, we believe that we all possess an inner child that yearns to thrive. Don't miss out on the opportunity to rise together with us. Join OKIRU: Rise Together now and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, cultural exploration, and community empowerment. Let's shape a better future together.

Information

  • Creator
    OKIRU
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    77
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    OKIRU: Rise Together

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