S9 EP141 – Zandile Ndhlovu (The Black Mermaid): On Ocean Conservation, Storytelling & Belonging.

S9 EP142: Basira Paigham Returns to Changing Platforms | From Refugee to Global Advocate

Here’s a more polished and cohesive version that keeps the emotional impact, clarifies the returning guest angle, and strengthens the narrative flow for a Spotify/YouTube episode description or LinkedIn-style long-form promo: Basira Paigham returns to Changing Platforms for a deeply powerful follow-up conversation—this time sharing not only where her journey has taken her since fleeing Afghanistan, but the extraordinary impact she is now making around the world. Recognized by the BBC as one of the 100 Most Influential Women of 2021, Basira first joined the podcast to speak about her escape from Afghanistan, the dangers she faced as an LGBTQ+ woman, and the harsh realities of life inside a refugee camp in Ireland. In this new episode, we reconnect with Basira to explore what came next: healing, leadership, advocacy, and building meaningful global change from unimaginable hardship. Now serving as the Executive Director of Rainbow Afghanistan, Basira is helping create life-saving support networks for Afghan LGBTQ+ individuals living under extreme threat. She shares how she transformed rejection into resilience, found strength through self-acceptance, and turned personal trauma into a platform for activism and hope. In this conversation, Basira opens up about: • Rebuilding her life after displacement and fear • Navigating identity, family rejection, and emotional survival • The ongoing dangers faced by queer Afghans • Building Rainbow Afghanistan into a global advocacy movement • Creating solidarity across Afghan diaspora communities • Leadership, resilience, and finding purpose through adversity This episode is raw, courageous, emotional, and ultimately hopeful. Basira’s story is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, one voice can create a ripple effect that changes lives and communities around the world. Perfect for advocates, activists, migrants, leaders, and anyone searching for inspiration to stand firmly in their truth, this episode is more than a conversation—it’s a call to action. 🎙️ Tune in now to hear how Basira Paigham continues to turn courage into impact and advocacy into global movement. Find Basira Paigham at: ✨ Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/basira.sultan.96]✨ Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/basira_paighamm?igsh=dDVwOTlzYTBwbjJz] ✨ LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/basira-paigham-795786174/] Find Rainbow Afghanistan at: ✨ Website [https://rainbowafghanistan.com]✨ Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/rainbowafghanistan?igsh=Z24ydXpsM3dsNm56]✨ Facebook⁠ [https://www.facebook.com/rainbowafghanistan]✨ LinkedIn⁠ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/rainbow-afghanistan/posts/?feedView=all] You can find more information and participate here: English form: https://forms.gle/YT93fAzZQtmvtjyV6 [https://forms.gle/YT93fAzZQtmvtjyV6] Additionally, the Afghanistan Rainbow Path Network is launching a Solidarity Platform designed to bring together organizations, institutions, researchers, media actors, activists, and allies working to advance equality and human rights for the LGBTIQA+ community connected to Afghanistan and its diaspora. To join the network, please use the following form: https://forms.gle/anDUf54wznaiN9J6A [https://forms.gle/anDUf54wznaiN9J6A] You may also find the UN session that Basira spoke about: Reclaim Families:  Reclaim Families: A Feminist and Human Rights-Based Approach to Family Policy (CSW69 Side Event) | UN Web TV [https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k17/k17q1sqdvu]  Find your host, Alka Bromiley at:⁠✨ Website⁠ [https://changingplatforms.com]✨⁠ Instagram⁠ [https://www.instagram.com/changingplatforms?igsh=YWs3bTdsanJ3MGx3&utm_source=qr]✨⁠ Facebook⁠ [https://www.facebook.com/share/18UGtsBwx3/?mibextid=wwXIfr]⁠✨ LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/inspire2consulting/]

S9 EP141 – Zandile Ndhlovu (The Black Mermaid): On Ocean Conservation, Storytelling & Belonging.

In this powerful episode of Changing Platforms, host Alka Bromiley sits down with Zandile Ndhlovu—ocean conservation leader, pioneering freediver, and founder of The Black Mermaid Foundation. From her childhood in Soweto to becoming South Africa’s first Black female freediving instructor, Zandile shares a deeply personal journey shaped by curiosity, resilience, and a profound connection to water. She reflects on early experiences of limited access to swimming, the influence of education and storytelling, and her work in equity, diversity, and inclusion within South Africa’s construction industry—where she saw firsthand how language and allyship shape belonging. A defining moment during scuba training—where she experienced exclusion—sparked a mission: to create safer, more inclusive ocean spaces for Black communities. Since founding her organization in 2020, Zandile and her team have introduced over 1,200 learners to the ocean, using snorkeling, storytelling, and education to build confidence, connection, and a new generation of ocean guardians. This conversation dives into: * How storytelling can reshape our relationship with nature—and each other * The ocean as a space of healing, identity, and belonging * Why representation in conservation is critical for real impact * Practical ways to engage children in ocean stewardship * How one voice can challenge narratives and spark global change Zandile’s work—spanning underwater photography, education programs, and a globally reaching children’s book—is redefining who belongs in the water and why it matters. Her story is a reminder that when we expand the narrative, we expand possibility. If you’re a changemaker, educator, conservationist—or simply someone who believes in the power of stories to move people and ideas—this episode will leave you inspired to create ripples of your own. Tune in and discover how storytelling, courage, and connection can transform both our oceans and ourselves. 🌊 Find Zandile Ndhlovu at: ✨ Website [https://www.blackmermaid.co.za]✨ The Black Mermaid Foundation [https://www.instagram.com/theblackmermaid_foundation?igsh=MXVneWZsc20wZGFheQ==]✨ Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/zandithemermaid?igsh=MTJnYTZvNWFhM3Nmcg==]✨ Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/share/1BfU3nHSYu/?mibextid=wwXIfr]✨ LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/zandithemermaid/] Find your host, Alka Bromiley at:✨ Website [https://changingplatforms.com]✨ Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/changingplatforms?igsh=YWs3bTdsanJ3MGx3&utm_source=qr]✨ Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/share/18UGtsBwx3/?mibextid=wwXIfr]✨ LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/inspire2consulting/]

S9 EP140 Pilar Gonzalez: From Mexico City to Global Banking Leadership, Mentorship, and Retirement Lessons

Most women don’t realize that a global, high-level career—and living a truly fulfilling life—starts with daring to dream beyond borders. Pilar Gonzalez, a Mexican-born banking leader now thriving in Asia and Europe, shares how her childhood in a lively Mexico City cul-de-sac and her relentless curiosity propelled her to compete on a worldwide stage—despite cultural and gendered barriers. In this episode, you'll discover how Pilar seamlessly transitioned from psychology to international banking, and how her network and mentorship shaped her extraordinary journey. We explore her pivotal moves from Mexico to London, Singapore, and beyond, revealing the strategies she used to navigate challenges, build confidence, and lead across cultures. Pilar discusses real strategies for forging impactful connections, mastering career transitions, and balancing global responsibilities with family life—lessons every ambitious professional needs. We break down the importance of curiosity, generosity, and resilience in shaping a life that defies the odds. Pilar shares her insights on the power of mentorship, the importance of clear goals, and embracing change with positivity—even in the face of personal health battles. Her story is a masterclass in leadership, courage, and living with purpose—lessons that resonate just as powerfully today. Why does this episode matter? Because in an increasingly interconnected world, your ability to adapt, connect, and lead with authenticity can transform not just your career but your entire life. Pilar’s experiences remind us that with curiosity and grit, you can turn any challenge into a new opportunity for growth and impact. Whether you're just starting out or contemplating your next big move, this inspiring conversation offers the tools and mindset to make bold moves and foster genuine connections. Perfect for women in international careers, leaders seeking fresh perspective, or anyone craving a dose of inspiration to live more fully—this episode is your roadmap to embracing change and creating your legacy. Join us to learn from Pilar Gonzalez’s journey of resilience, purposefulness, and the unshakeable belief that with enough curiosity, effort, and kindness, you can truly change your platform.   Find Pilar Gonzalez at:✨ LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/pilar-gonzalez-a75a4088/] Find your host, Alka Bromiley at:✨ Website [https://changingplatforms.com]✨ Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/changingplatforms?igsh=YWs3bTdsanJ3MGx3&utm_source=qr]✨ Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/ChangingPlatformsPodcast]✨ LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/inspire2consulting/]

Changing Platforms: A Comeback and a Celebration of Passion

Welcome back to Changing Platforms! In this short, host Alka Bromiley shares her journey of taking a break from podcasting, the reasons behind it, and her renewed passion for creating meaningful content. She also teases an upcoming episode with guest Pilar González from Mexico, emphasizing the importance of passion projects and community.Main topics covered: Find your host Alka Bromiley at:✨ Website✨ Instagram✨ Facebook✨ LinkedIn

S9 EP139 Ilana Landsberg-Lewis: From Grassroots to Global: Empowering Women and Grandmothers Worldwide

In this episode of Changing Platforms, host Alka welcomes Ilana Landsberg-Lewis, an unconventional leader with over 30 years of experience in mobilizing resources for global human rights. Ilana shares her journey from an activist family in Canada to spearheading pivotal movements and initiatives at the UN and Stephen Lewis Foundation. The episode delves into Ilana's philosophies on feminism, intersectional rights, and the importance of empowering grassroots organizations. Learn how Ilana's experiences with African grandmothers and older women worldwide shaped her approach to activism and advocacy and explore her passion project—the 'Wisdom at Work' podcast. A candid dialogue that promises to inspire and uplift, revealing the transformative power of love and collective action. Find Ilana Landsberg-Lewis at: Wisdom at Work Fund [https://wisdomatworkfund.org/] Link to the WizWork social media platform for 60+ women activists: WizWork: social media platform for 60+ women [https://wizwork.net/] https://wizwork.net [https://wizwork.net/] Link to the Wisdom at Work Podcast (which can also be found on most streaming services) Wisdom at Work: Older Women, Elderwomen & Grandmotherson the Move!  [https://wisdomatworkpodcast.com/] Link to a film of the Stephen Lewis Foundation Peoples' Tribunal:  https://youtu.be/CoH32cT0r8s?si=1gwdkTIX5l4k0S3m [https://youtu.be/CoH32cT0r8s?si=1gwdkTIX5l4k0S3m] The African Grandmothers Tribunal: Seeking justice at the frontlines of the AIDS crisis Find your host Alka Bromiley at: ⁠Website⁠ [https://changingplatforms.com/] ⁠Instagram⁠ [https://www.instagram.com/changingplatforms?igsh=YWs3bTdsanJ3MGx3&utm_source=qr] ⁠Facebook⁠ [https://www.facebook.com/ChangingPlatformsPodcast] ⁠LinkedIn⁠ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/inspire2consulting/] Changing Platforms is brought to you by ⁠Inspire2⁠ [https://changingplatforms.com/coaching-and-consultancy] - ⁠https://changingplatforms.com/coaching-and-consultancy⁠ [https://changingplatforms.com/coaching-and-consultancy]