Baskets Of Knowledge

In the latest episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we had the privilege of speaking with Nimeesha Odedra. Her story takes us from the challenges of migration to the triumph of building a business with her mother, showing us what’s possible when we refuse to give up. Key takeaways this week: The Migrant Experience: As a migrant woman in New Zealand, Nimeesha faced the double burden of systemic biases against her gender and her cultural background. Despite being highly qualified, she was constantly overlooked for promotions. Her story sheds light on the silent battles many face in workplaces where unconscious biases linger. Yet, instead of giving in, she turned her frustration into purpose by pursuing a PhD to explore these inequities and amplify the voices of other migrant women. The Power of Sharing Stories: One of Nimeesha’s key findings during her PhD research was the transformative power of storytelling. She discovered that when women shared their struggles and triumphs, it not only validated their experiences but also sparked their healing and renewed their confidence. Sharing your story isn’t just about being heard; it’s about reclaiming your strength and inspiring others to do the same. Building a Legacy with Sobhna's: What began as her mother’s hobby, making curry paste for farmers’ markets, has grown into a thriving business. With Nimeesha’s determination and her mom’s passion, Sobhna's is now sold in over 100 Woolworths stores across New Zealand.  You Are Not Alone: Perhaps the most empowering lesson from Nimeesha’s journey is this: you’re never alone in your struggles. Whether it’s in business, personal growth, or life’s challenges, there’s always someone who understands. But finding that connection requires taking the brave step of putting yourself out there. Vulnerability isn’t weakness, it’s the bridge to growth and belonging.  After you listen, reflect on this: What’s one challenge you’ve turned into an opportunity?  Enjoy Prajesh and Tane

What drives someone to create meaningful change from the age of 5? Meet Tara Shepherd—a trailblazer, advocate, and environmental leader whose journey is as inspiring as it is impactful. Tara’s story begins with her experiences at Ronald McDonald House, where she saw firsthand the importance of community and compassion. At just five years old, she began advocating for others, and that passion has only grown over the years. From standing up for student accessibility to tackling major environmental challenges, Tara has dedicated her life to making a difference. Key Takeaways from Our Conversation:Advocacy Starts Early: Tara’s first steps into activism involved raising awareness for Ronald McDonald House. Today, she’s a champion for students with disabilities, pushing for real change in education systems. Action in the Face of Adversity: When she was 19, Tara was pivotal during a Westport flood crisis, leading waste management efforts that cleared 1,000+ tons of debris in six days. Her leadership earned respect, regardless of age.

In this week’s episode of Baskets of Knowledge, we’re thrilled to feature Priya, a person that continues to blow our mind through her simple yet empowering content.  Priya transformed her life by stepping away from the traditional “success checklist” to define purpose on her own terms. Raised with conservative expectations, Priya followed the typical path of education, career, and family but found herself asking, “Is this it?” Her story is a testament to the power of redefining success from within. In this episode, we dive deep into: Perspective as PowerPriya shows us how a shift in perspective, seeing life from new angles, can open up possibilities and unlock our potential. Her journey of questioning assumptions is a blueprint for anyone feeling stuck. Redefining SuccessFreeing herself from external expectations, Priya stopped living for others and began to pursue her passions. This step toward authenticity gave her the freedom to find genuine happiness and purpose. Small Habits, Big TransformationThrough daily journaling, movement, and consistent small actions, Priya reconnected with herself, showing us that transformation doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small, meaningful habits are key to lasting change. We also speak about her motivation to share this with the world. Listen now to hear Priya’s inspiring journey and discover actionable insights to help you unlock your own potential and live with intention.

In our latest episode, we chat with Ryan Williams, an inspiring young leader from rural New Zealand who’s now thriving at Dartmouth College with the support of Crimson Education. From a small town to the Ivy League, Ryan’s story is packed with insights on authenticity, perseverance, and the power of community. Key Takeaways: Stay True to Your Roots: Growing up on a farm, Ryan’s connection to the land and his small-town values continue to guide him. He emphasises the importance of knowing your core values, especially when navigating new worlds. Passion + Perseverance = Impact: What started as a simple science project on water quality led Ryan to international research forums and impactful sustainability work. His story reminds us that every big journey begins with a small step! Embrace New Opportunities with Boldness: Inspired by a chance conversation, Ryan took the leap to apply to U.S. universities with Crimson Education’s help. Now at Dartmouth on a scholarship, he’s showing other Kiwi students that bold decisions can open doors. Community and Collaboration: From youth councils in New Zealand to connecting with peers around the world, Ryan values community. His advice? Surround yourself with people who challenge you and expand your horizons. Whether you're from a small town or a bustling city, his story is proof that your dreams are within reach. Enjoy Prajesh and Tane