Lightkeepers

About Lightkeepers

Every era has people who refuse to let the light go out. Lightkeepers Podcast finds them, hears their stories, and asks the only question that matters: how do you keep going?

Publisher

Mushtak Al-Atabi

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

1 Jun 2026

Latest episode

17 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

12 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   17 Oct 2026

   Different: The Courage to Become Yourself | Yekemi Otaru

   What does it mean to feel "different" and how do we turn that difference into our greatest superpower?In this special episode of Lightkeepers, hosts Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi and Ian Houston turn the light onto their co-host, Yekemi Otaru, an engineer, author, university chancellor, entrepreneur, and CEO of the charity Somebody Cares.Yekemi opens up about her personal journey with vulnerability and warmth: from growing up in Nigeria and moving to Muscat, Oman as a young girl, to navigating spaces where she felt visibly and culturally different. She reflects on the childhood moment when someone asked why the palms of her hands were a different color from the back of her hands, the early mid-career shift from oil and gas engineering to marketing and communication, and the quiet power of embracing who you are instead of trying to fit in.Together, the trio explores how private doubts can give way to deep self-awareness, why true leadership is about serving the community with dignity, and how each of us can discover the reason we are here on Earth.In This Episode:[00:11] Turning the spotlight onto Yekemi Otaru[02:14] Who is Yekemi beyond titles and accolades?[03:45] Childhood roots: The girl who loved directing plays and teaching others[05:58] Childhood inspiration: Watching Oprah Winfrey and dreaming big[06:47] A father’s belief in education for girls[11:42] From petroleum engineering to an MBA: Navigating an early career pivot[14:07] Translating complex ideas: Bridging the gap between engineering and human connection[20:17] Facing doubt and imposter syndrome: "Do it afraid"[22:15] Moving from Nigeria to Muscat, Oman: The feeling of being "different"[23:02] The story behind the palm of the hand[26:44] Scotland as home: Embracing diversity and the Black Scottish community[31:14] If you wrote an autobiography: Why the title is Different[32:35] Leading Somebody Cares: Restoring dignity through food, furniture, and practical support[37:39] Creating pathways for youth with additional support needs[44:43] Getting to know yourself: Charting your daily energy and discovering your purpose[50:14] One message for the next generation: Believe in yourself and keep the light on#Lightkeepers #YekemiOtaru #Different #Leadership #Storytelling #Purpose #CommunitySupport #Inspiration #Scotland

2. 

   16 Oct 2026

   For the Love of Scotland: Love, Loss, and the Life of Purpose

   What happens when you turn the spotlight on the storyteller?In this special episode of Lightkeepers, the tables are turned as Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi interviews his friend, poet, journalist, and Scottish-American cultural ambassador Ian Houston.What unfolds is a deeply personal, vulnerable, and moving conversation about identity, immigration, the ache of childhood loss, and why Scotland’s spirit of warmth, egalitarianism, and quiet resilience holds timeless wisdom for an increasingly divided world.From growing up as an immigrant kid in the San Francisco Bay Area to navigating the profound grief of losing his childhood best friend Doug, Ian shares how private sorrows cultivate the "soil within our soul"—and why choosing to uplift others, champion higher education, and uphold human dignity is the most enduring light anyone can leave behind.In This Conversation:[00:11] Turning the light inward: Introducing Ian Houston[02:21] Beyond titles: Who was Ian as a young boy?[03:23] Growing up in the Bay Area in a Scottish immigrant family[05:23] Imagining messages from our younger and future selves[10:06] "What light are you keeping?" Focusing on uplifting others[12:59] A shared love for Scotland: Warmth, wisdom, and an unbreakable spirit[15:20] "When are you back in Scotland?" Loving place through people and family[18:29] Standing steadfast: The future and civic soul of Scottish higher education[26:24] Discovering the inner spark: Lessons from parents and Nana's handmade scarecrows[28:49] The formative grief: Remembering Doug and the tree in California[34:49] Finding empathy, kindness, and deeper wisdom through loss[36:42] Cultivating the soil in our soul: Poetry, doubt, and finding daily energy[40:42] Passing the torch: Robert Burns, Auld Lang Syne, and leaving a gentle residue[44:07] One message for today's youth: Uphold human dignity and stand firm#Lightkeepers #IanHouston #LoveOfScotland #Storytelling #GriefAndHope #RobertBurns #HigherEducation #HumanDignity #Leadership

3. 

   13 Sept 2026

   Soon Seng Chan: Transforming Malaysia, One Student at a Time

   What does it take to ensure that a child's future is not determined by the socioeconomic circumstances they are born into?This is one of the defining questions of our time. Around the world, societies continue to wrestle with educational inequity and unequal access to opportunity. Yet there are people who refuse to accept that circumstance should define destiny. They dedicate themselves to creating pathways for every child to discover and fulfil their potential.Our guest today is one of those people.Soon Seng Chan is the Chief Executive Officer of Teach For Malaysia, an organisation driven by a bold vision: that one day, all children in Malaysia will have the education, support, and opportunities they need to shape their own futures. Through his leadership, Teach For Malaysia has been building a movement of educators, leaders, and advocates working to tackle educational inequity and create lasting change.

4. 

   11 Sept 2026

   Prof Woo Yin Ling: A World without Cervical Cancer

   What drives a person to dedicate their life to improving the lives of others, especially those they may never meet? Professor Woo Yin Ling, co-founder of the ROSE Foundation, embodies this spirit. Her mission is clear: to eradicate cervical cancer in Malaysia through self-screening, education, and empowering women.## Who is Professor Wu Yin Ling?In a recent conversation, Woo Yin Ling shared insights into her personal journey. Beyond her impressive accolades, she describes herself as curious, with an innate ability to connect with others. "I'm curious about other people's lives... I just love talking to people and getting to know them," she explained. This curiosity has fueled her passion for addressing cervical cancer, a disease that predominantly affects women under 45.## The Challenge of Cervical CancerCervical cancer remains a significant health concern, with alarming statistics highlighting its impact. Woo Yin Ling pointed out, "Every six minutes, six women die from cervical cancer globally." Yet, this is a preventable disease. With existing vaccines and screening methods, it is possible to eliminate cervical cancer, but access remains a critical issue.Woo Yin Ling emphasises the inequities surrounding this disease: "80% of new cases are diagnosed among underprivileged women." This reality inspired her to establish the ROSE Foundation, aimed at removing obstacles to cervical screening and making it accessible to all women, regardless of their socio-economic status.## Overcoming BarriersThe foundation's name, ROSE, symbolises the soft approach needed to address these serious issues. Wu Yin Ling reflects on the challenges she faced, stating, "Cultural stigma and health literacy can make cervical cancer screening daunting for many women." She emphasises the importance of understanding the needs of the women they aim to serve.Moreover, Woo Yin Ling shares that her journey began with a simple conversation. After learning that women could perform their own screening using a swab, she was inspired to initiate a project without the backing of significant grants. "It started very, very small," she recalls, seeking support from various stakeholders to gather resources and launch the initiative.## Lessons LearnedThe importance of being connected to the community cannot be overstated. Woo Yin Ling recalls a humbling experience during a visit to a local clinic, where a nurse expressed frustration at how academic researchers often approach solutions without understanding the on-the-ground realities. This feedback has shaped her approach, leading to a program that meets women where they are, both physically and emotionally.As Woo Yin Ling continues her fight against cervical cancer, her story serves as a reminder of the power of empathy, curiosity, and determination. By addressing the systemic barriers and engaging with the community, she is paving the way for a future where cervical cancer is no longer a threat to women's health.In a world where we have the means to prevent and treat cervical cancer, Wu Yin Ling's work is a beacon of hope. If you're interested in learning more about her inspiring journey and the impact of the ROSE Foundation, I encourage you to listen to the full episode.

5. 

   7 Sept 2026

   Serina Hijjas, an Architect of Life, Energy, and Space

   Serina Hijjas' work reshapes the skyline of Malaysia. This is a conversation with Serina, the human, the daughter, and the leader. We spoke about her deep sense of purpose, lessons from her father, and also how she intends to pass on the light to the next generation.

6. 

   24 Aug 2026

   Susan Krumdieck: The Transition Engineering Guru

   Susan Krumdieck looked at our energy systems, the pipelines, the motorways, the power stations, and reached an uncomfortable conclusion: our unsustainability crisis is not the result of failed engineering. It is the result of successful engineering. Systems that work brilliantly, profitably, and reliably... at delivering a future we cannot survive.In this conversation, we talk to Susan about how to make transition engineering a reality.

7. 

   11 Jul 2026

   Constructing Change: Why the Built Environment Needs Young Minds Now

   In a world where the built environment shapes our daily lives, the stories of those who lead and innovate within it often go unheard. In this episode, we delve into a fascinating conversation with Alison Watson, a passionate advocate for education and change in the construction industry. As a land surveyor turned social entrepreneur, Alison's insights illuminate the vital role of education in transforming the built environment and empowering future generations.

8. 

   10 Jul 2026

   John-Son Oei Building Homes and Dignity for Indigenous Communities

   In a world where many choose to look away from the struggles of marginalised communities, some individuals hear a calling and take action. These are the lightkeepers. One such lightkeeper is John-Son Oei, the founder and CEO of Epic Homes, an organisation dedicated to building homes for the Orang Asli communities in Malaysia. This post explores Johnson's journey, the challenges faced by these indigenous people, and how he is making a difference.John-Son started his journey into social entrepreneurship at the young age of 22. An ordinary young man at the time, he was looking for purpose and meaning in life as he approached graduation. With a background that did not provide him with financial security, he was driven to find ways to make a difference in the world. Through his love for community activities and the outdoors, he began to reflect on how he could contribute positively to society.The Orang Asli people, the indigenous communities in Malaysia, face significant challenges, particularly when it comes to housing. John-Son estimates that between 10,000 and 12,000 families within Peninsular Malaysia are in desperate need of safe and adequate homes. Many live in makeshift structures that deteriorate quickly, making it difficult for families to thrive and raise their children in a secure environment. The lack of decent housing not only affects their safety but also hampers their ability to focus on long-term development.How Epic Homes is Making a DifferenceEpic Homes was born out of a desire to make a tangible difference. Johnson and a group of motivated youths started by helping to improve basic facilities, such as toilets and showers, in the communities they visited. Their first project, although simple, ignited a passion in many who participated. They found that people were eager to contribute to meaningful work when given the chance. This realisation led to the development of a more structured approach to building homes for the Orang Asli.The Importance of Community InvolvementOne of the core philosophies of Epic Homes is the importance of community involvement. Johnson believes that meaningful change happens when communities are engaged in the process. By involving the Orang Asli in the building of their homes, Epic Homes fosters a sense of ownership and pride among the families. This approach not only provides them with physical shelter but also restores their dignity and sense of belonging.The Impact of Epic HomesSince its inception, Epic Homes has significantly impacted the lives of many families, helping them transition from inadequate living conditions to safe and secure homes. The organisation promotes a model of sustainable development, ensuring that the benefits extend beyond just housing. By empowering the indigenous communities, Johnson and his team are paving the way for a brighter future, where families can thrive and contribute positively to society.

9. 

   16 Jun 2026

   Learn How Heather McGregor Leverage Relationships to Help Others Progress Their Careers

   We spoke with Heather about being a relationship builder and how she helped many people start (and restart) their careers, including Monica Lewinsky. She built systems to address inequality with very practical structural change, as exemplified by her work with the 30% Club, Taylor Bennet Foundation, and Heriot-Watt University.

10. 

    16 Jun 2026

    Instilling the Love of Reading in Children with Prof Rana Dajani

    Ever felt that deep urge to make a difference but didn’t know where to start? Here’s how Dr Rana Dajani began her journey:She grew up in a home filled with conversations and care. Her mother taught her the importance of community, and that sparked her desire to help others. But it wasn’t just a single moment of enlightenment; it was a gradual realisation that we all have a responsibility to the world around us. When she noticed that children in her neighbourhood weren’t reading for fun, she knew she had to take action. So, she gathered them in a local mosque to read together. It was all about creating a love for reading and igniting their imaginations. Because every child deserves to discover the world through books. It’s not just about the act of reading; it’s about nurturing future generations to think boldly and explore freely. What’s the light that you are holding for humanity? How are you making a difference?#WeLoveReading

11. 

    16 Jun 2026

    Jack Sim, The Man Who Made Toilets Available to Billions of People

    Learn how Jack Sim transformed the sanitation narrative and established World Toilet Day, shedding light on the global sanitation crisis. From personal struggles to impactful leadership, discover insights that challenge conventional thinking about education and societal values.Sanitation is often an overlooked aspect of global development, yet it plays a crucial role in public health and community well-being. In this blog post, we explore a transformative conversation with Jack Sim, founder of the World Toilet Organisation, who has dedicated his life to addressing this neglected issue. About Jack SimJack Sim is a visionary leader known for his groundbreaking work in sanitation advocacy. He founded the World Toilet Organisation and initiated World Toilet Day, recognized by the UN. His unique perspective stems from a personal journey through Singapore's evolution from a developing nation to a global leader in sanitation.The Power of Humble BeginningsJack recounts his childhood memories of Singapore as a colony, emphasising the stark contrasts between then and now. "I was born in 1957, a time when our GDP was just $500. Today, it surpasses $100,000 per capita," he shares. This transformation is not merely economic; it reflects a societal evolution that includes advancements in sanitation, which Jack passionately advocates.The Journey from 'Failure' to ActivismJack faced early academic challenges, describing himself as a "school failure" due to ADHD. Yet, he turned these obstacles into opportunities, finding success as a businessman before pivoting to focus on sanitation. "I realised we’re not spending money; we’re spending time," he explains, highlighting his commitment to making a meaningful impact during his lifetime.The Sanitation CrisisDespite significant advancements, Jack points out that 2.5 billion people still lack access to proper sanitation, leading to millions of unnecessary deaths from preventable diseases. "Sanitation is a neglected agenda," he asserts, calling for a shift in how we discuss and prioritise this critical issue. Breaki Taboos with HumourJack emphasises the importance of humour in addressing sensitive topics like sanitation. He learned from others in the field that laughter can break barriers, allowing for open conversations about issues that many shy away from. "When people laugh at you, they're listening to you," he says, illustrating his strategy for raising awareness.The Role of EducationIn addition to sanitation, Jack critiques the education system, which often prioritises rote learning over creativity and critical thinking. He argues that education should celebrate multiple intelligences rather than stifling them. "Our system rewards those who regurgitate information while punishing creativity," he states, calling for educational reform that nurtures diverse talents.Key Takeaways- Sanitation is a critical public health issue that affects billions and deserves more attention.- Personal experiences can lead to transformative leadership; Jack's journey showcases resilience and dedication.- Humour and community engagement are powerful tools in advocacy, making difficult subjects more approachable.- Educational reform is necessary to cultivate a generation that values creativity alongside knowledge.ConclusionJack Sim's journey from an academic underdog to a leading sanitation advocate illustrates the importance of persistence and passion. His insights challenge us to rethink how we approach both sanitation and education, urging us to prioritise these fundamental issues that affect millions. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is World Toilet Day? World Toilet Day is an annual event on November 19, established by Jack Sim to raise awareness about the global sanitation crisis.Why is sanitation important? Sanitation is crucial for public health, as it prevents diseases and promotes overall well-being in communities.

12. 

    1 Jun 2026

    Stories from the People who Refuse to Let the Light Go Out

    In this Lightcast, we explore a special type of leaders. Those who do the necessary work to keep our world together without much fanfare, we call them the Lightkeepers. At a time when some of the world's most powerful leaders are not necessarily prioritising the creation of an equitable, sustainable, and enjoyable world, Lightkeepers are quietly steering us in a more inclusive and purpose-driven way. This lightcast is a project to celebrate these special leaders and learn from them.

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