A Journey of Culture, Courage, and Community with Leilani Faaiuaso

Raised in South Auckland, Leilani Faaiuaso’s journey is a powerful testament to cultural pride, intergenerational learnings, and community service.In this Baskets of Knowledge episode, Leilani opens up about what it means to grow up as a Samoan woman in spaces where brown faces were few and far between, from her scholarship experience at St Cuthbert's College to thriving in the corporate world at Deloitte.Despite feeling pressure to assimilate and moments of cultural disconnection, Leilani's story is about coming full circle. From disassociating with her culture to declaring “I am Sāmoan” on a TEDx stage, her story is a lesson in vulnerability, growth, and standing firm in your identity and roots.In our conversation, she shares:The power of embracing your heritageThe behind-the-scenes of her TEDx talk on identity and belongingExperiencing burnout and the importance of rest.The ongoing need for youth leadership and representation in governance spacesLeilani doesn’t just talk about impact, she lives it. From her work in Pasifika and youth leadership to becoming a Young Local Hero of the Year medalist. Leilani is empowering the next generation of Aotearoa’s changemakers.Key learnings from Leilani’s story:✅ Your cultural identity is valid, no matter how fluent or “full-blooded” you are✅ You can live your ancestors’ wildest dreams while still making room for rest and reflection✅ Being young it’s important that we have the people and opportunities to gain experience✅ You can never pour from an empty cup, fill up your cup to overflow into your community✅ Faith, family, and gratitude are what keeps you groundedWhether you’re navigating your cultural identity, aiming for corporate success, or looking to make a difference in your community, this episode is your reminder that you can do anything, anywhere as long as you have the right people and right resources around you. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify and YouTube:🔗 [Insert Spotify link]🔗 [Insert YouTube link]Tag a friend who needs to hear this