Youth Leaders
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.
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.”
Rivindee Udugala
Youth Leader
Rivindee Udugala hails from Sri Lanka, making her way to New Zealand where she was introduced to Mixit when her aunty took her to watch our 2024 summer show ‘I AM & I AM’. The stars aligned as she quickly felt accepted at Mixit, using this space to grow herself as a role model and leader. Outside of Mixit Rivindee enjoys catching a movie and spending quality time with her beloved cat Jackie Chan!
Jake Easterbrook
Youth Leader
At 13 years old Jake Easterbrook made his way into the Mixit programme, having been born in New Zealand with ancestry that traces back to South Africa and Europe. Jake joined Mixit because he was interested in meeting new people, and expanding on his worldview. In the future Jake would like to take what he has learnt through Mixit, and use his skills to help people do the best they can in all areas of their life.
Rana Dowlaty
Youth Leader
Our youngest, and most energetic,youth leader Rana Dwlaty is a huge football and theatre lover. As an Afghan born in Iran, Mixit has become for Rana a second home. She allowed herself to come out of her comfort zone, and embrace all aspects of being a Mixer, and now wants to use this new opportunity to develop her adaptability and embrace change.
Hanan Jama
Youth Leader
Hanan Jama born in New Zealand, with her families origins from Somalia, had heard about Mixit through her cousins, but in 2022 that all changed, when she decided to take the steps and become a part of the Mixit whānau. As a shy kid Hanan only had an interest in reading, but Mixit has since expanded her creativity- taking on dance, music and drama. She also has found her footing through meeting other Mixers, who she hopes to continue to grow with.
