Moja Collective - nature, mindfulness and building community outdoors with Shukura Babirye

Recorded live at Camley Street Nature Park, in collaboration with Open Area.Moja Collective founder Shukura Babirye sits down with Ijaz Kato for a warm, honest conversation about how an Instagram page celebrating diverse experiences in nature unexpectedly grew into a monthly walking community - and why slowing down, paying attention and sharing access matters.They explore how Moja Collective’s walks evolved from social hikes into mindfulness-led outdoor experiences, what it means to “lead” as a facilitator rather than a figurehead, and the practical realities of making nature feel safer and more welcoming - from risk assessments and group size, to storytelling, land stewardship and the subtle ways we can reduce our impact on wildlife and other visitors.In this episode, we cover:Why Moja Collective started - and how it evolved “by accident”Making nature feel closer than people think - from London to the North DownsTurning a hike into a mindfulness practice - silence, senses and slowing downCommunity building without burnout - and how to design for longevitySafety on walks - preparation, accessibility and helping people feel settledStorytelling, land oversight, and what stewardship looks like in practiceHow Moja Collective signposts other groups and opportunities (no gatekeeping)Balancing people’s wellbeing with respect for place - sound, space and wildlifeGuests:Shukura Babirye - Moja Collective founderIjaz Kato - interviewerFind Moja Collective events: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/mojacollective-76841278903Recorded at: Camley Street Nature Park In collaboration with: Open AreaExplore more London National Park City Podcasts