My Story

My name is Sarah Macdonald, and I am a Pākehā New Zealander with heritage from the British Isles, including England, Scotland, and Scandinavia. My ancestors arrived in Aotearoa in the 1860s, many having lived in various parts of the British Empire, including India and the United States. Growing up in Southeast Asia—Singapore and Hong Kong—exposed me to diverse cultures early in life, enriching my understanding of the world and the nuances of different perspectives.

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My identity is multifaceted, shaped by my experiences and unique cognitive processes. I am dyslexic and have traits of ADHD, which has shaped my approach to problem-solving and creativity, allowing me to offer distinctive insights in both my professional and personal life. As I turned 40, I began to fully embrace this neurodiversity, developing a deeper understanding of how it informs my work, especially in supporting neurodiverse individuals and fostering inclusivity in all spaces.

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I also came to realise later in life that I am a bisexual woman. This understanding of my sexuality has not only provided relief but also helped me connect deeply with issues of identity and belonging. This journey informs my work, as I strive to create spaces where individuals can express their authentic selves without fear of judgement. My commitment to JEDI work is rooted in my own experiences navigating complex layers of identity.

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Professionally, I have dedicated myself to uplifting those facing marginalisation, particularly within dominant cultural contexts. My career spans across community, education, and business sectors, with a special focus on the Arts. I believe that the Arts—especially music—serve as a powerful conduit for building intercultural connections and promoting social cohesion. In this work, I seek to move people from the "headspace" to the "heart space," ensuring that engagements are both meaningful and transformative.

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As a middle-aged woman, mother, Pākehā, Tangata Tiriti (in the context of Aotearoa New Zealand), adult learner, and bisexual, I am acutely aware of the privileges I carry. I aim to use this privilege to build bridges and create access and connection. I believe in the transformative power of storytelling and in harnessing my dyslexic creativity to bridge understanding.

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At Intercultural Connections, I work alongside a diverse network of JEDI professionals who bring their own lived experiences and expertise. Together, we integrate a rights-based approach, intercultural competency, and systems change innovation into tailored training solutions that empower individuals and strengthen relational dynamics.

Our efforts are driven by respect for diverse lived experiences and supported by evidence-based frameworks. We are passionate about building bridges across cultures and creating environments where all voices are heard and valued.

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Specialties.

• Facilitator: I specialise in bridging diverse perspectives, building connections, and creating inclusive environments. I employ Design Thinking and Human-Centred Design methodologies to ensure that all solutions are tailored to the unique needs of each community and organisation I work with.

• Content Specialties:

  • Intercultural competency/connection

  • Refugee and Migrant Settlement

  • Supporting Neurodiversity

  • Community-Based Social Cohesion Projects

  • Advancing Social Impact using Systems Change Methods

• Advocacy: Leading efforts for a more just and equitable future.

• Coaching and Mentoring: Walking alongside individuals and groups during times of transition.