Episode #55
#55 - Ballet Without Borders and the Power of Belonging
Send us Fan Mail A child can be full of talent and still never discover it if nobody opens the door. That idea sits at the heart of our conversation with Katia Kullengren, founder of Ballet Without Borders, a charity bringing ballet and performing arts to children who might otherwise never step into a studio. Katia shares what it was like arriving in Australia as a young immigrant, living below the poverty line, and realising that “work hard and dream big” only works when opportunity is real. We dig into what happens when children meet ballet for the first time: not just learning steps, but hearing classical music, taking on a physical challenge, and seeing themselves differently. Katia tells the story of a boy who came to an early workshop simply because his mum needed somewhere safe for him to go during the school holidays, and how that single introduction became his community for years. Along the way, we talk about confidence, belonging, discipline, focus, and why a creative outlet can be life-changing for kids who do not connect with competitive sport. Katia also reflects on leadership, service, and building a national organisation by staying curious and listening to schools and communities. We discuss why arts education should sit alongside sport in any serious conversation about inclusion, youth development, and stronger communities, plus her vision to expand access for First Nations children and into the disability and neurodiversity sectors. If this resonates, subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with someone who believes every child deserves the chance to find what they are capable of. -- In this episode Leon and Katia discuss: Why talent may be evenly distributed while opportunity is not Katia’s experience of migration and growing up below the poverty line How missing out on ballet became the inspiration for Ballet Without Borders Why access to the arts should not depend on income or postcode How ballet builds confidence, resilience, focus and belonging The importance of creative opportunities for children who do not connect with sport Creating inclusive programs for culturally diverse, First Nations, neurodivergent and disabled communities Why listening and curiosity are essential qualities for founders and leaders How volunteering a small amount of time can make a meaningful difference Katia’s vision for Ballet Without Borders over the next 20 years A powerful reminder Changing a life does not always begin with something extraordinary. Sometimes it begins with one open door, one person who believes in you, or one experience that helps you discover something you never knew was possible. Every one of us has the capacity to create opportunities for others—through our time, encouragement, knowledge, generosity or willingness to believe in someone before they believe in themselves. Connect and learn more. Learn more about Ballet Without Borders, support its work or explore volunteering opportunities: Call Katia: +61 (0) 410 668 655 Email: info@balletwithourborders.org (Details shared with Katia’s permission during the episode.) Support the show ️ About Engaging Conversations Hosted by Leon Goltsman, Engaging Conversations shares the stories and insights of leaders, innovators, and everyday Australians creating positive change. Through honest dialogue and meaningful connection, each episode aims to inform, inspire and strengthen our communities. Enjoyed this episode? Follow the podcast, leave a review and share it with someone who would value the conversation. Connect with Leon Goltsman: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leongoltsman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leongoltsman/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lgoltsman Website: https://www.ecohq.com.au Email: leon.goltsman@ecohq.com.au Have a story to share or interested in collaborating? Leon would love to hear from you. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of Leon Goltsman, Engaging Conversations or Ecolibrium Headquarters Pty Ltd. This podcast is provided for informational and entertainment purposes and does not constitute professional advice.
