Behind the Smile - Peleti Oli
Peleti's life embodies a powerful journey of resilience, self-discovery, and a relentless pursuit of healing not only himself but others. Through challenging personal experiences, including the tragic loss of his brother to suicide, Peleti has become a leader of hope and change. Coming from a tra…
Behind the Smile - Vira
Originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Vira’s journey to Aotearoa as an asylum seeker marked a radical shift from a communal, family-centric upbringing to a society starkly different in its individualistic values. Accompanied by her elder sister and mother upon arrival in New Zealand, h…
Behind the Smile - Vikram
Vikram's life has been one of navigating love, loss, and an unyielding pursuit of hope. Born and raised in Singapore, his heart was intertwined with his family, especially his beloved mum, who imparted values of resilience and compassion. Vikram's world shattered at the age of 12 when his mother pa…
Behind the Smile - Rachel
Before anything else, Rachel is a loving mum and partner, a social worker, a DJ and a champion for social justice. Rachel describes her upbringing as “colourful and challenging”. Rachel faced adversities that shaped her life, including experiences of sexual violence and the onset of a methamphetam…
Behind the Smile - Quinn
Fresh out of high school, eighteen-year-old Quinn from Dannevirke dove eagerly into farm work. But as his dedication consumed him, Quinn found himself spiraling into a dark place, overworked and overwhelmed by feelings of being a burden on those around him. He planned to end his life and sent a goo…
Behind the Smile - Quack
Quack was raised in Panmure with their mother and four siblings. Quack’s father resided up north and his appearances were scarce, typically reserved for funerals or confrontations with their mother. Quack, a twin and the youngest in their whānau struggled to understand the complexities of their par…
Behind the Smile - Semi Cho
Semi's upbringing was complex and challenging, weaving elements of both a regular childhood and the awareness of not fitting into societal norms. Having albinism meant that Semi looked markedly different, often leading to instances where others stared, made comments, or passed judgments. Societal …
Behind the Smile - Lissy & Rudi
Lissy and Rudi are building a community for intergenerational healing. Crochet, initially a craft, soon evolved into a —a tangible medium through which they honour their tūpuna and the diversity of life experience, to foster community. Their hands weave threads that carry stories from previous gene…
Behind the Smile - Kia Kanuta
Kia found solace in the kitchen after losing both parents in his teens. Working at the Avondale RSA, he found stability and purpose under the guidance of two chefs. Cooking became his refuge, offering structure amid grief. Beyond mere task, it became a way to care for others, inspiring him to mento…
Behind the Smile - Henrique / Rhubarb Rouge
Henrique's journey from Brazil to New Zealand at 13 was marked by cultural shocks and mental health struggles. Adjusting from Brazil's vibrancy to New Zealand's quiet way of life was challenging. His silent battle with mental health persisted until he opened up at 15, starting therapy and medicatio…