Episode #167. UBUNTU: I see you, I celebrate you, You matter. I am because we are. Kellie Hackney, The Canopy, Author, Woman Changing the World

At the heart of Ubuntu lies a deeply moving philosophy from Africa, one that weaves the very fabric of our shared humanity into a single, vibrant tapestry. This philosophy teaches us a simple, yet profound truth: "I am because we are." 

It's a reminder that none of us exists in isolation. Our lives, our successes, and our challenges are deeply interconnected with those of others around us. Ubuntu invites us to look beyond our individual selves and recognize that our collective well-being is fundamentally linked to the happiness and health of our community.

KELLIE HACKNEY, Author, Chapter called INTERWOVEN Shared Stories, Shared Humanity 

FAMILY SERVICES LEADER, The Canopy. The Canopy is a non-profit organisation that provides multiple services for families, children and the community, including managing a number of community centres and halls. The Canopy operates its administration from Cameron Park Community Centre but services extend throughout the Lake Macquarie and Newcastle regions.

https://thecanopy.org.au/

Kellie Hackney's life is a profound narrative of resilience and hope. She writes “As I close my eyes and think of ubuntu—I am because of who we are—I envisage a beautiful woven tapestry. A work in progress, a reflection of our journeys and a witness to the journeys we share together”

Overcoming early adversity, including addiction and mental health struggles, she transformed her pain through connection, belonging, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge and light. Her recovery, supported by loved ones and professionals, exemplifies the power of healing and the beauty of rewriting one's story amidst life's challenges. 

This principle doesn't just highlight our interconnectedness; it also underscores the immense power of belief in change and the magic of new beginnings. Ubuntu suggests that when we acknowledge our shared humanity and act with compassion and empathy towards others, we unlock the potential for profound transformation—not just within ourselves, but within our communities and the world at large.

Embracing Ubuntu means embracing the belief that change is possible and that a different, more hopeful outcome awaits us all. It teaches us that through unity, support, and mutual understanding, we can overcome obstacles and move beyond our current limitations. This belief in the power of collective action and shared purpose is what fuels new beginnings and drives us towards a brighter, more inclusive future.

In essence, Ubuntu is a call to action—a call to stand together, to believe in our collective power to effect change, and to embark on the journey of new beginnings with open hearts and minds. It's a reminder that in the grand tapestry of life, each thread is vital, each contribution matters, and together, we can weave a story of hope, resilience, and enduring humanity.

"Sacred Promise: An Anthology," curated by Dr. Tererai Trent and endorsed by Elizabeth Gilbert unites diverse voices sharing personal stories and commitments to themselves, exploring life's essence, challenges, and the pursuit of purpose. This anthology, praised for empowering women to aim higher, is an invitation to reflect on the promises we make to ourselves, urging readers towards self-discovery, empowerment, and collective change.
 https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Promise-Dr-Tererai-Trent-ebook/dp/B0B54ZSJRF
https://thecanopy.org.au/