Storytelling for a better world
Meet AUT alumna Elina Ashimbayeva, a storyteller, community advocate and human rights champion whose career has been shaped by curiosity, passion and a commitment to making the world a better place.
Elina’s path to success wasn’t driven by a specific job or career title. Instead, her pursuit of a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Rights at AUT stemmed from a desire to learn more, to understand different mindsets and to challenge herself intellectually.
Midway through her studies, she made the bold decision to leave a job she loved at a Crown agency in the education sector to focus on her full-time studies.
After graduation, she joined the design team at Auckland Hospital, Ara Manawa, as a Senior Experience Designer, but she didn’t stop there. Elina went on to run projects like Ally Skills, a platform for DEI and allyship workshops, and Equitable Product, which teaches inclusive technology. Through it all, her work has been deeply influenced by her experiences at AUT, especially when it comes to the power of storytelling.
"I’m particularly inspired by finding new ways for people to connect through personal storytelling," she explains.
In 2019, Elina founded Storyo, a platform that amplifies marginalised voices through personal storytelling on a wide range of topics.
"I don’t get too caught up in the how or even the what sometimes," she reflects. "But I stay rooted in the core mission: amplifying real, everyday stories and making people feel heard and seen."
Her most recent Storyo series focused on sexual health, pleasure and periods, featuring 25 individuals from Aotearoa. "I love when educational content is infused with raw, vulnerable stories,” she says.
While Elina's career has been full of meaningful work, she admits the toughest part has been balancing her professional ambitions with her personal wellbeing.
As someone who is an immigrant, the eldest daughter and a support for her family, the pressure can be overwhelming. "Thank god for amazing therapists and coaches," she adds, acknowledging the importance of taking care of her mental health.
Elina’s dedication to building community is another cornerstone of her journey.
Over the years, Storyo has evolved from written interviews to filmed series and community events. Elina has worked with 15 volunteers, secured grants, and organised poetry readings, collage workshops, panels and more.
Through Storyo, she has interviewed over 200 people, and it’s been an essential part of her journey to finding community.
"At first, I struggled with the concept of ‘community,’ but my friend Kiran Patel once said, 'Community is just your friends and their friends – bonding over a meal and opening your hearts together,'" Elina shares.
It's clear that community, for Elina, is less about digital metrics and more about genuine human connection.
Outside of her professional endeavours, Elina has decided to try explore a new path.
In 2024, she moved to New York City to study at a full-time conservatory.
Despite her busy life back home, she decided to take a break and immerse herself in a new creative outlet.
"It’s been the best thing for me at this stage of life," she says, describing the emotional growth she's experienced through her acting classes.
She also maintains her health through therapy, even while living abroad.
Elina's story is one of constant growth, adaptation and resilience. Whether through Storyo, her work in human rights or her new acting career, she is a true testament to the power of following your passions and embracing unexpected paths.