Youth leaders
Sajal Taneja
Youth Leader Coordinator
Sajal joined Mixit in 2019 through a family friend and became a Junior Youth Leader within a year. Since then, Sajal has consistently displayed commitment to our mission and has become an integral part of our community. Now, as a Youth Leader Coordinator, he helps in training and guiding the upcoming Youth Leaders. Originally from India, Sajal values the opportunity Mixit provides to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and make lifelong friendships. He sees Mixit as a platform for both creative expression and personal growth, allowing him to explore and expand his creativity. Sajal finds joy in expressing himself through the performing arts, especially driven by his passion for acting and drama and the supportive environment Mixit offers.
Arezo Nazari
Youth Leader
As a newcomer to New Zealand, Arezo was invited to end-of-year picnic in 2021 from other organisation, where she first encountered Mixit. Subsequently, she joined the summer project – “VOICES” in 2022. Originally from Afghanistan, Arezo initially struggled with homesickness and isolation. However, her time at Mixit proved transformative, allowing her to rediscover joy and belonging. Through making new friendships and engaging in activities, she found solace in the shared experiences of other immigrants. With a passion for hiking, cooking, and reading, Mixit became more than just a community—it was a home where Arezo felt safe and accepted. Returning after a year as a Youth Leader, she cherishes Mixit's warmth and energy, reaffirming her sense of belonging.
Zohal Afshary
Youth Leader
Originally from Afghanistan, Zohal joined Mixit in 2021 when she was introduced through her sister. The fun and energetic atmosphere immediately caught her attention, and she decided to participate regularly. After coming for a year, she was invited to step up as a Youth Leader. She values the inclusive and welcoming environment that provided a place where she can learn, build her confidence, and mature while having fun. As an outgoing person, she loves to engage in various sports, write, travel, and Mixit offers an excellent platform to pursue all her interests.
Shahram Qasimi
Youth Leader
Shahram’s journey with Mixit began at our Auckland outreach workshop in July 2022. Coming from Afghanistan and fresh to New Zealand with no friends and minimal English, he found support and joy in the session. This positive experience nudged him to dive and commit into the core program, seeking to navigate this new NZ culture. Mixit swiftly became his second family, where he not only learned new things but also formed meaningful connections. Shahram cherishes being part of such a welcoming community, expressing gratitude to be a Youth Leader and for the friendships and growth opportunities it offers. As he puts it, "I am so happy that I am a Mixer.”