MEET THE TEAM: 5 minutes with Miriam

Tell us about yourself and how you found yourself part of Neighbourhood:

I’m a third year communications student at the University of Canterbury and have followed

Maddie for a wee while because I loved the positivity her IG brought to my feed! I was

scrolling through stories when I came across her call for people to get involved with

Neighbourhood. My values aligned with Neighbourhood and I could see that it was such a

valuable platform for me to work with others and help to create positive change in my

community!

Do you have any significant goals or projects for 2021?

Honestly, my main goal is to finish off uni and figure out some sort of future pathway for me

to take next year! I also want to make an effort to take any opportunities offered to me.

What is a cause/issue/movement that you feel passionately about?

I feel like there are so many issues out there that I feel strongly about but if I were to pick

three they would be: the environment, mental health and women’s rights.

Who or what has influenced you the most?

My grandma has been my best friend growing up and she continues to inspire me and push

me to be the best version of myself. She’s such a strong woman and I will always look up to

her!

If someone I love is down, I cheer them up by…

Just being present - whether that’s sitting in silence together or bringing snacks round and

having a chat. It’s so important to make yourself available and be there for those you love

while also having your own boundaries.

Somewhere that you’ve never been to in Aotearoa that you’d like to visit?

I’m lucky enough to have travelled to a lot of beautiful places in Aotearoa but one place that I would love to visit would be Milford Sound!

Something that relaxes me when I’m feeling stressed is…

I love love going on long walks with my friends and also going to classes at the gym. My

favs are yoga and pump!

What is something you’re grateful for?

I’m super grateful for my family and beautiful friends who pick me up when I’m struggling

and are also always there to celebrate with me.

Favourite song on your playlist right now?

I have been listening to Olivia Rodrigo’s good 4 u on repeat! It makes you feel

all the emotions!!

What motivates you to do good?

Seeing the positive change that I can create when I do even the smallest of good for other

people - it really is the little things!