In her TEDx talk, Lilia Tarawa recounts her experiences growing up in the Gloriavale Christian Community, a cult-like environment on New Zealand’s South Island. Tarawa describes her childhood in the picturesque, isolated community with its strict Christian doctrines and communal living. She reminisces about the joy of community events and the close-knit relationships with her extended family and friends, highlighting the positive aspects of her upbringing.However, her narrative takes a darker turn as she reveals the harsh and abusive practices enforced by the community’s leaders. Tarawa shares painful memories of public humiliation and physical punishment, including an incident where her grandfather shamed her for her academic achievements. These experiences, along with witnessing brutal discipline and oppressive control, led her to question the community’s teachings and her own worth.The turning point came when her best friend Grace was forced into a marriage she didn’t want. This event galvanized Tarawa to escape with her family, driven by a desire for freedom and self-respect. After leaving Gloriavale, she immersed herself in understanding human behavior and self-love, ultimately using her leadership skills to build a new life outside the cult. Tarawa’s story is a testament to personal growth and the transformative power of self-love and resilience.
