Humans of the Northern Beaches: We Belong is a podcast amplifying diverse voices from Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Hosted by local community leaders, each episode takes you on a journey through personal stories that delve into identity, culture, migration, disability, food and the profound connections that bind our community together.
Join us as we celebrate the stories that unite us all and discover how these narratives can inspire meaningful change in our own lives. Subscribe now and be part of a movement that embraces diversity and fosters community spirit.
All views and opinions expressed by participants in this podcast belong to the participants and do not reflect the views of Northern Beaches Council.
Catching the wave: Susan and her journey into ocean photography
In this episode of the We Belong podcast, Maria sits down with Susan Whitby — an archaeologist whose unexpected dive into ocean photography during COVID led to a new creative chapter in her life. What began as a simple way to spend time outdoors soon became a daily ritual of capturing the light, movement, and emotion of the sea.
From early morning swims at Collaroy to chasing the perfect wave shot, Susan’s story is grounded in curiosity, quiet joy, and a deep connection to nature. She reflects on the meditative rhythm of photographing waves, the beauty of sunrise, and the importance of slowing down and paying attention. If you’ve ever felt the pull of the sea or wondered what it means to follow a feeling, this episode is a gentle reminder to lean into what lights you up.
You can find Susan on SusanWhitbyPhotos.com or on Instagram @susanwhitbyphotos.
All views and opinions expressed by participants in this podcast belong to the participants and do not reflect the views of Northern Beaches Council.
17 Sept 2025
Beyond the headlines: Melinda's lifelong dedication to amplifying refugee voices
In this special episode recorded from Scotland Island, co-host Margaret chats with Melinda Ham, an award-winning journalist and former foreign correspondent. Melinda shares her incredible journey from growing up in Canada and working across the globe like Malawi, Zambia, India, and Singapore, to finding her peaceful haven on the Northern Beaches.
Melinda’s experiences covering major world events—including refugee crises and dawn of democracy movements—shaped her perspectives and actions. Her book, “The Lucky Ones”, amplifies the powerful, untold stories of refugees who have found safety and built new lives in Australia.
Tune in to hear Melinda's reflections on resilience and compassion, her hopes for a welcoming Australia, and how she balances a quiet life on the island with a continued dedication for championing refugee voices.
Melinda’s book, The Lucky Ones, is on https://www.simonandschuster.com.au/books/The-Lucky-Ones/Melinda-Ham/9781922848024 (https://www.simonandschuster.com.au/books/The-Lucky-Ones/Melinda-Ham/9781922848024)
Melinda can be contacted for questions, author talks, or public speaking through LinkedIn or her publisher publicity@simonandschuster.com.au (mailto:publicity@simonandschuster.com.au)
Resources on refugees in Australia
https://www.refugeecouncil.org.au/resources/ (https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refugeecouncil.org.au%2Fresources%2F&data=05%7C02%7C%7C310c51d2844f46c8a01708ddce41c4d1%7C8c5136cbd646431c84ae9b550347bc83%7C0%7C0%7C638893504103402975%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2FDfcxIqNWgrjNchRheH8pS%2FWi3BDitb4i%2F6XY8Kk8pg%3D&reserved=0)
https://www.unsw.edu.au/kaldor-centre/our-resources/get-the-facts (https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.unsw.edu.au%2Fkaldor-centre%2Four-resources%2Fget-the-facts&data=05%7C02%7C%7C310c51d2844f46c8a01708ddce41c4d1%7C8c5136cbd646431c84ae9b550347bc83%7C0%7C0%7C638893504103434031%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=YpMXX1l2ophQNfyin5rl1j8wegT5bUFqjSL3oT%2B0k8Y%3D&reserved=0)
All views and opinions expressed by participants in this podcast belong to the participants and do not reflect the views of Northern Beaches Council.
27 Aug 2025
Shiva's journey of faith, freedom, and finding home on the Northern Beaches
In this episode, Maria chats with Shiva, a member of the We Belong: Intercultural Community Leaders Program behind this podcast initiative. Shiva shares her journey, beginning with her family's decision to escape Iran when she was 14 years old due to the persecution of the Baha'is. She recounts their lifechanging journey to Australia, and the experience of starting a new life in a foreign place.
Grounded in the Baha’i philosophy of “The world is but one country, and mankind its citizens”, Shiva discusses her connection to the Northern Beaches, and her belief in unity and diversity. She shares her thoughts on fostering deeper community connections on a personal level and the importance of shared stories in building a more understanding society.
Her story is a testament to the idea that living true to one's faith can be a path to connection and belonging.
Places mentioned by Shiva
The Baha’i House of Worship at Ingleside, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches
All views and opinions expressed by participants in this podcast belong to the participants and do not reflect the views of Northern Beaches Council.
12 Aug 2025
From Runway to Ripples of Kindness: Cherise’s story of Resilience and Connection
Join co-host Margaret for a captivating conversation with Cherise, who grew up in the US. Scouted for modelling at a young age, Cherise shares about the harsh realities of the fashion industry and the subsequent intentional soul work that helped her heal and find her peace.
Now settled on the Northern Beaches, she cherishes her connection to the community and her love for her family and the environment. True to her Southern US upbringing, Cherise is a huge believer of and advocate for the small, everyday deeds that make a profound impact in the world.
Tune in to hear Cherise's powerful story of resilience and connection. You can also find her on Instagram @cheriseshaddixarthur.
Support sources:
Lifeline
Confidential crisis support service Crisis phone: 13 11 14
Northern Beaches phone: 02 9949 5522
Website: https://www.lifelinenb.org.au
Mental Health Line
Speak with a clinician for mental health support and recommendations
Phone: 1800 011 511
All views and opinions expressed by participants in this podcast belong to the participants and do not reflect the views of Northern Beaches Council.
29 Jul 2025
Clare's Kitchen: Food as Connection
Today’s guest is Clare Hammond, a Northern Beaches local and the force behind Chef by the Sea. Clare's story is a heartwarming blend of culinary passion and community connection, all centered around the universal language of food.
Clare shares how her journey with food was sparked from childhood memories with her family, nurtured from cooking through various countries, and finally to starting her own catering service on the Northern Beaches.
Join us in this episode honouring the food that connects us, whether through a shared Sunday roast, curries at home, or in the lively atmosphere of night markets.
You can find Clare at www.chefbythesea.com.au or on her Instagram @chefbythesea.
All views and opinions expressed by participants in this podcast belong to the participants and do not reflect the views of Northern Beaches Council.
9 Jul 2025
Veena's voyage: From India to inner wisdom on the Northern Beaches
Inner work facilitator Veena Gopinath recounts her transformative journey from India to Australia, discussing self-discovery and helping others find authenticity in this interview with host Maria.
26 Jun 2025
Healing, humour and helping others: Simon’s lifelong road to belonging
Radio professional Simon shares his story of resilience and community involvement after a life-changing accident, discussing trauma, humor, and healing with host Margaret in this interview.
24 Jun 2025
Juliana’s Journey: Surviving and thriving on the Northern Beaches
Host Nancy interviews Juliana about her experiences immigrating to Australia, raising children as a single mother, and finding belonging while overcoming racism, highlighting the importance of resilience.
24 Jun 2025
Welcome to the Humans of the Northern Beaches: We Belong podcast
Hosts Maria, Margaret, Nancy, and Jin introduce the "Humans of the Northern Beaches: We Belong" podcast, which shares diverse stories from Sydney's Northern Beaches to foster community connection and understanding.
Who has been a guest on Humans of the Northern Beaches
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Veena Gopinath
Simon
Juliana
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YouTube views
832,872
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 55 / 100
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Quality
75
Social presence
0
YouTube
86
Engagement
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