Creating Belonging: The Message of Neighbour Day with Natalie Ahmat

In this episode of Stars and Stories, Mark Hogan speaks with journalist and Neighbour Day Ambassador Natalie Ahmat about the growing issue of loneliness in Australia — and how small acts of connection can help turn things around.

With nearly one in three Australians reporting loneliness, Natalie shares why the key to overcoming loneliness is taking the time to make that human connection.

Neighbour Day, happening this Sunday, March 30, is a national call to reach out, say hello, and build stronger, more connected communities. The 2025 theme, “Create Belonging, Share Belonging, Grow Belonging,” encourages us all to take simple steps toward fostering belonging and respect.

Stars and Stories Podcast

Broadcasting straight from the heart of Remote Communities, Black Star Radio brings a fresh twist to local radio with stories, music, and connections that matter. Powered by Queensland Remote Aboriginal Media (QRAM), we’re here to amplify voices, celebrate culture, and bring you the latest from Far North Queensland.

Meet Natalie Ahmat

A proud Mudburra (Wave Hill, NT) and Wagadagam (Mabuiag Island, Torres Straits) woman, Natalie is passionate about telling stories through an Indigenous lens.

A journalist, producer, presenter and filmmaker, Natalie has been a familiar face on NITV for almost two decades. In 2023, Natalie was appointed Head of Indigenous News and Current Affairs at NITV and SBS, overseeing NITV News, as well as NITV’s flagship current affairs programs, The Point and Living Black.

As well as being an Ambassador for Neighbour Day, Natalie is the Co-Chair of the Indigenous Literacy Foundation and sits on Cricket Australia’s National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cricket Advisory Committee.

Learn more at: https://neighboursday.org