Born in Exile, Singing for Freedom: The Voice of Lele
This week’s podcast is a conversation about legacy, resilience, exile, embracing a sense of belonging … & the power of music …the Voice of Lele.
Lele is a proud West Papuan singer-songwriter, refugee, mother of four, and decolonisation activist.
Born in exile, Lele’s journey has taken her from the Netherlands to Australia, where she became the nation’s first prominent West Papuan artist to perform on major stages — including the Australian Open. She shares the realities of being separated from one’s homeland, the deep cultural connection passed down by her late father — legendary musician Agustinus Rumwaropen.
We explore how music has become her weapon of resistance, a vessel for preserving her culture, and a bridge between her Melanesian roots and the world stage. This conversation is a testament to resilience, motherhood and determination.
In this episode, we explore:
– Growing up in exile and the meaning of “home”
– Music as cultural preservation and political protest
– The legacy of her late father, Agustinus Rumwaropen
– Balancing motherhood, activism, and performance
– Lessons in resilience and identity
This is what Lele said about resilience and identity:
“Music is a form of protest.”
“Living in exile means always longing to be home, even if you’ve never truly lived there.”
“You’re stronger than you think you are. Even when you think you’re strong, you’re even stronger.”
“If you get caught raising the West Papuan flag back home, it’s 15–20 years in jail — but I fly it proudly on stage.”
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Find Lele at:
Website: https://www.voiceoflele.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voiceoflele
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