Nicole Yang.
The MFA DE&I Council would like to see an industry where everyone can thrive, feel heard, supported, and safe to do their best work. Let’s meet the Changers who are sharing their own lived experiences to inspire us all to change for the better.
Hi, my name is Nicole. I’m and economy class-flying, violin-strumming migrant born and raised in China, and proud mother to a Jack Russel and two Ragdolls.
When I graduated from university, I expected networking and building professional relationships to be my greatest hurdles. And honestly, it often felt like climbing a steep hill. Cultural differences and language barriers made every step more challenging, turning simple conversations into daunting tasks when connecting with industry professionals.
Even though I started my LinkedIn journey early, breaking the ice and finding common ground with others felt like solving an impossible puzzle. Navigating a new culture while building a professional network was both isolating and overwhelming.
After countless missteps, I discovered a powerful shift in approach: instead of obsessing over shared interests, I began exploring the unique aspects of our cultures and experiences. This not only sparked meaningful conversations but also helped us see how our differences could become valuable strengths.
The reality hit hard when I began job hunting. A major roadblock quickly surfaced: hiring policies that only considered Australian citizens or permanent residents. While I understand the administrative and legal concerns behind these rules, they often unintentionally shut out talented international candidates.
Even with valid work rights, many candidates like me find themselves excluded from opportunities – not because of our skills or potential, but because of our citizenship status. As a result, many international professionals end up in roles that underutilise their expertise, offer lower pay, and limit opportunities for growth, recognition, and advancement.
This isn’t just a minor frustration; it’s a profound barrier to achieving professional fulfilment. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have found a company that embraces diversity and provides equal opportunities for all applicants. But the truth is, this level of inclusivity is still far from standard across the industry.
The media industry as a collective may also benefit from asking the right question – how can we grow and do better as a whole?
Many friends and colleagues were surprised to learn about these issues when I first started voicing my experience. So, for those who have similar experiences, it might be valuable to ask, don’t be afraid to talk about your experiences and use it as an opportunity to raise awareness.
For industry leaders, the right question could be: ‘How can I initiate change?’ This involves actively listening to diverse voices, acknowledging the challenges faced by international and multicultural professionals, and using your influence to promote equal opportunities.
By fostering open dialogue and implementing more inclusive practices, leaders can help dismantle the barriers that many face.
Through these conversations and actions, we can drive meaningful change, create a more equitable environment, and ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute their unique talents and perspectives to the media industry.
Nicole Yang is Client Executive at News Corp
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