The Good Food Podcast – Dr Shani Dhanda on the Vaisakhi festival and fighting for the rights of disabled people
Disability activist Dr Shani Dhanda talks about her cooking influences growing up in a Sikh household – plus how Nadiya Hussain taught her how to cook!
The Good Food Podcast
In this episode, host Samuel Goldsmith is joined by Dr Shani Dhanda, a prominent disability activist and broadcaster. Shani shares her journey, from her roots in a devout Sikh household to her career in events management and her inspiring activism. Additionally, she highlights the significance of the Sikh festival of Vaisakhi, shares delicious cooking tips, and talks about her love for traditional and modern cuisines. Plus, how Nadiya Hussain taught her how to cook. This episode offers a blend of social advocacy, cultural education, and culinary delight.
Dr Shani Dhanda is a multi-award-winning disability inclusion specialist, thought leader, and social entrepreneur. She founded Diversability, the Asian Woman Festival, and the Asian Disability Network to combat global social inequality.
Over the past year, she has worked with 100+ clients as a keynote speaker and inclusion consultant. Recognised among the most influential women in leadership, she was a BBC 100 Women Laureate and named a Changemaker to Watch by CEO Magazine. Shani has featured on LinkedIn’s first TV advert, Nadiya Hussain’s Time to Eat (BBC) and EastEnders. A prominent broadcaster, she’s contributed to Rip Off Britain, This Morning, and major news outlets. She advocates for disability rights, influencing policies and launching an internship program for disabled people. With seven executive roles and five ambassadorships, Shani is a catalyst for change in disability inclusion.
Bonus episode
Listen to the bonus cook-along episode.
Listen to more podcast episodes, including our Cook Smart podcast and Tom Kerridge podcast.
