The MFA’s NGEN Award gives media agency executives with less than five years’ experience the opportunity to create positive impact by using their core skills: strategic thinking, creativity, storytelling and media execution expertise. NGENers were this year invited to respond to a brief for youth charity Musicians Making a Difference (MMAD).
AdNews presents, Meet the NGEN Award Finalists: Tania , Junior Strategist, Havas Media Australia and Janice Tsang, Account Manager, Havas Media Australia
How long have you been in the industry?
Tania: Two and a half years spanning across Brisbane and Sydney markets.
Janice: I have been in the industry just under four years!
What attracted you to working in a media agency? Was this always the plan?
Tania: I have always been attracted to creativity and being at the forefront of culture. My sister was already working in media and she has always been my number one role model in both my personal and professional life, so of course, like the annoying little sister that I am, I just had to copy her!
Janice: I had no idea what a media agency was until a friend introduced me to this new world, and since then I got captivated by how fun and innovative the industry is.
What were your greatest lessons from the experience of entering the NGEN Award?
Tania: Having the right partner by your side is paramount. You need someone to balance you out, the yin to your yang. Working with someone who has a different skill set will help to ensure you come out with a thoughtful and well-rounded response. It doesn’t mean that you will always see eye to eye, but they will be there to reel you in whenever you veer off the path (thanks, Janice).
Janice: Crafting good ideas takes time, but establishing a clear response structure ignites thoughts and facilitates the natural flow of ideas. It will never be a “perfect” response, so it’s crucial to have the ability to step back and acknowledge your own excellent work!
What’s the best thing about the industry you work in?
Tania: Our industry attracts people from all walks of life! I have met so many interesting, brilliant and amazing individuals, every day, I get to listen and learn from them.
Janice: Definitely the people! The lifelong friendships I’ve made, and the office banter keeps me going every day.
What does the MFA industry purpose of ‘We Are The Changers’ mean to you?
Tania: All too often we can forget the influence and impact that our work has. We shape culture, we inspire millions, in some cases, billions. We have the power to ensure that every single person feels seen, heard and represented – regardless of how big or small your campaign budget may be.
Janice: There is an impact in everything we do, no matter how big or small. Our collective efforts, including the remarkable work we produce, possess the potential to shape the world in a positive manner.
Where do you plan to be in five years’ time?
Tania: At the MFA Awards dinner with my strategy team by my side. Or, on a beach in Palermo with Jennifer Coolidge. Whichever comes first.
Janice: I hope to continue to produce meaningful work and help foster great culture and talent in the industry.
The winners of the NGEN Award will be announced at the 2023 MFA Awards gala dinner on Thursday, September 21.
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