My D*List: Chelsea Pita on why nan's house is her favourite place to eat

My D*List is a series of profiles that allows us to get to know people from across disability communities in Aotearoa. We ask them to explore their hopes for the future (Dreams), what they like to do on a night in (Drama), their idea of a great night out (Disco), favourite food (Delicious) and the special friends and whānau in their world (Dates).

Dreams: To thrive and be happy

Honestly, I hope I’m stable - financially, physically and mentally. I dream that my whānau and I are happy and thriving in our dreams, aspirations and future endeavours. As for Aotearoa, that one is difficult to answer. Although we have come far, we still have a long way to go. As a wahine tāngata whaikaha Māori (Ngāti Tūwharetoa/Ngāti Rangitihi) I represent multiple minority communities and those communities continue to be underserved and underrepresented. My hope is that Aotearoa works at putting more effort into acknowledging, serving and partnering with the Māori and disability community.

Drama: A love for old school hiphop

Depending on my mood, will depend on what I watch. Just not a horror. I recently got a small role in a TV show and now that I have a bit of experience on a set, anytime I watch a film or show I start to enjoy more than just the storyline but also the effort and work behind each scene. As for music, I always love to listen to music, mainly old school hiphop, rap and R&B - I say that as if it’s really old but in reality late 90s to early 2000s is my preference, like 2 Pac, TLC, NWA, Mary J Blige, Snoop Dogg etc.

Disco: Good company makes the night

I’m not much of a going out kind of person. Twenty-three and still never been clubbing because it’s just not my kind of scene. Don’t get me wrong I love a night of dancing and socialising but only every once and a while. For me, it’s all about the kai in front of you and the company around you, music, dancing or some sort of social activity is just an added bonus, it’s those around you that will make the night a hit or miss.

Delicious: Nan's house for kai

My nan’s house will always be my favourite place to eat, guaranteed there's always a pot on the stove whether it was a boil-up or stew, you just knew you were eating good when you got to nan’s. I’ve always enjoyed cooking and baking from a young age, so it’s hard to say what my favourite thing to make is when I’m at home, but I guess similar to my choice films, cooking is the same for me. Depending on my cravings will depend on what I cook - oh, and what ingredients are already in the fridge and cupboards.

Dates: Mum's love and support 

My circle of friends is small but impactful. They’re supportive and inspirational with a dash of truth hitters when needed. My mum has always inspired me to keep striving for more and better. I grew up in a low income, single-parent, state household and although we may not always have had much, my mum always tried her best to give my siblings and I everything we needed and every possible opportunity. I wouldn’t be where I am or doing all these amazing things if it wasn’t for the love and support from my mum.

Want to contribute your D*List? Send us an email: kiaora@thedlist.co.nz