Ep.20 — Mariah Templonuevo: Growing Up Filipino in New Zealand, Career & Identity

Here's a podcast description that matches the tone of the episode and your previous Banana Lab episodes:

In this episode of Banana Lab, we sit down with Mariah to explore her journey from the Philippines to New Zealand, growing up in Lower Hutt, and building a career that aligns with her values.

Mariah shares the realities of adapting to a new country at a young age, navigating university and the job market, moving to Auckland for new opportunities, and eventually finding purpose in a marketing career within the medical sector.

Along the way, we dive into food, travel, New Zealand's hospitality scene, the Michelin Guide, and why work can become such a big part of our identity—especially in many Asian cultures. It's an honest conversation about career, culture, belonging, and creating a meaningful life beyond your job.

In this episode:

Growing up Filipino in New Zealand
Culture shock and life in Lower Hutt
University, career challenges and moving to Auckland
Finding purpose in marketing
Identity beyond work
Filipino and Kiwi food culture
Auckland's restaurant scene
New Zealand's Michelin Guide
Travel stories from Canada and plans for Europe

Whether you're an immigrant, a foodie, a creative professional, or simply navigating your own career journey, there's something in this conversation for you.

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Ep.14 — Ashley Bautista: Growing Up Filipino in New Zealand

Ashley joins us on Banana Lab to share her experience growing up Filipino in New Zealand and finding her own identity between cultures.Born in the Philippines and raised in Hamilton, Ashley reflects o...

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