To see ourselves as others see us or as Malini Chakrabarty said Scots: the kindest people I’ve ever met!
Join Fiona and Marlene as they chat with artist and anti-racism champion Malini Chakrabarty about her powerful work, her experiences living in Scotland, and the crucial skills needed to build a more equitable society.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Malini shares both the positive and challenging aspects of her journey in Scotland, offering authentic insights into what it means to be a woman of colour navigating Scottish society today. We explore the essential capabilities for combating racism—empathy, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence—and discuss practical ways these skills can be developed and strengthened.
Malini also opens up about her reasons for supporting Scottish independence and provides fascinating perspective on how younger voters are shaping Scotland’s political future. Her reflections bring fresh understanding to voting behaviour and generational attitudes toward democracy.
Throughout this discussion, Robert Burns’s famous line comes alive: “O, wad some Power the giftie gie us To see oursels as others see us”—a reminder of the transformative power of seeing ourselves through others’ eyes, and of the importance of genuine dialogue across difference.
A thoughtful, inspiring, and deeply human conversation you won’t want to miss. You can also watch the podcast on our YouTube channel: “Scots: the Kindest People I’ve Ever Met”
Key topics:
- 01:33 Introducing Malini Chakrabarty
- 02:29 Education Scotland’s anti-racism programme
- 09:25 A warm Scottish welcome
- 12:14 Far right racism in Scotland
- 14:50 Protecting our children through education
- 21:13 Making a personal impact
- 23:23 The Power of Art
- 25:39 Supporting Scottish Independence
- 27:26 Young voters
- 29:26 Young women in politics
- 33:08 Different ways to protest
- 36:54 Lets put the women in charge!
Find out more about the resources mentioned:
- Malini Chakrabarty LinkTree
- Artists for Scottish Independence
- Young Anti-Racist Voices of Scotland
- Young Women’s Movement
- Building Racial Literacy programme
- Pass the Mic Scotland
- Human Rights Consortium Scotland
- browse our Scottish Arts & Culture Playlist
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