Curtin’s Cast Episode 34 - 22 October 2025 - From Basra to 🇦🇺 Aussie Boardrooms: JCRC Chair Sam Almaliki

🎙️ Our guest today has lived the Australian story from the inside out. Born in Basra, Iraq, arriving to Australia as an asylum seeker aged nine including spending time in Villawood Detention Centre, and now a lawyer, chairperson and entrepreneur — Sam Almaliki’s journey is one of hope, hardship and renewal. From learning English behind fences to leading in business and community, Sam’s story captures the resilience and reinvention that define the Australian project. In this episode Nick and Kos yarn with Sam about:

🏠 Growing up in public housing & the power of aspiration
🏏 From Cricket Australia to navigating boardrooms
🤝 Migration, belonging & social cohesion

 

🎧 Listen to Curtin’s Cast with Sam Almaliki wherever you get your podcast goodies!