Kia ora, and welcome to the very first episode of UNLEARN! I’m Milla (she/her), an educator and researcher. In this first episode, I’m opening up about a journey that’s been challenging but necessary—unlearning my own biases, especially around gender. I want to do and be better, to truly see and understand the gender diversity that exists all around us, that which yet often remains invisible in traditional education spaces.
We people often cling to certainty and to the things we've learned before, sometimes turning away from the human rights of others in the process. But I’ve realised that staying silent is its own kind of harm, and I have a responsibility as an educator to make sure that everyone, especially those who don’t fit into society’s narrow gender boxes, feel seen and valued.
My goal for each episode is to discuss the small but powerful actions we can take in education—like learning people’s names and pronouns and respecting their identities. These are often overlooked details, yet they’re foundational for a true sense of belonging. On this first episode, I reflect on the impact of allyship and the wisdom I’ve gained from my students.
This podcast isn’t just about me sharing; it’s about learning together. In future episodes, I’ll be inviting guests who have helped me challenge my previous perspectives and helped me unlearn. So, whether you’re an educator, a parent, or a different type of an ally, I hope you find a space here to reflect, challenge yourself, and maybe even feel a little more equipped to support the diverse learners in your life.