A new programme and podcast on OAR FM Dunedin is promoting conversations about difference in the wake of the Christchurch mosque shootings.
Amal Abdullahi is international student wellbeing lead with Silverline Otago, set up in 2017 for Otago University students, by students, to give them an opportunity to discuss self-care and mental health issues.
Ms Abdullahi said she approached OAR FM about creating her show Headscarves and Good Yarns after examining her own response to the events of 15 March.
“I saw a lot of conversations happening on Facebook and in real life, people talking about racism in New Zealand and how it wasn’t that big of a shock that (the shootings) happened here, and that we need to change if we want to avoid something like this happening again.
“All I could think about was that it’s awesome that people are thinking like that now but what’s going to happen in a couple of weeks or months? People are going to stop having these conversations, and that urgency for change is going to disappear.”
The radio show and podcast would be a forum for “good yarns”. Anyone who considered themselves to be different or who wanted to share their own experiences and stories was welcome to take part.
Civic and community leaders would also be invited to be part of the conversation.
“I’d like our leaders to talk about race and diversity in New Zealand, and how we’re going to navigate the change that’s needed,” said Ms Abdullahi.
While the programme would be traversing some heavy topics, the focus would be on positive approaches and outcomes.
“There will always be in-depth conversation but I never want it to come from a place of judgement or hate.”
Headscarves and Good Yarns airs Mondays at 7pm on OAR 105.4FM and 1575AM, with podcasts available from oar.org.nz, Google podcasts and Apple podcasts.
Photo: In-depth conversation: Amal Abdullahi hosts Headscarves and Good Yarns on OAR FM Dunedin.