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‘What I have learned through meeting different people from all over the world – they all want to be acknowledged as who they are, and they’re looking for the space where they belong.’
With a third of Australia’s population born overseas, we are seeing a country rich in diversity and culture. Rika shares the challenges of coming from Japan to Australia and how a loving community broke through the loneliness and isolation.
Key takeaways from this episode
- Finding belonging in a new culture: Rika shares her journey from Japan to Australia and the emotional challenges of adjusting, making friends, and raising a family without local support.
- The loneliness of starting over: She describes the effort required to build community from scratch and how easily newcomers can feel isolated—even when surrounded by people.
- The power of simple hospitality: A smile, a greeting, or simply sitting with someone can make newcomers feel safe and welcome. Small gestures matter more than we think.
- Faith discovered through friendship: Rika’s introduction to Christianity came through genuine relationships, shared meals, and seeing others live out their faith.
- Healing through new relationships: Positive experiences with Christian friends and church community reshaped her understanding of family, fatherhood, and trust.
- A calling to support others: Now serving as a cross‑cultural coordinator, Rika walks alongside people from many nations—Muslim, atheist, refugee, and more—offering connection, conversation, and care.
- Everyone longs to belong: Whether new to the country or born in Australia, people share the same deep needs for acknowledgment, friendship, and a safe place to be themselves.
- Don’t underestimate your presence: Rika encourages Australians to welcome newcomers without fear—no perfect words required. Smiles, patience, and genuine interest make all the difference.
Episode transcript
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