Tell us a bit about yourself.
I'm an Aussie with an insatiable appetite for worldly adventure and meeting new people. I enjoy living actively outdoors, especially escaping to 'nirvana' (AKA Gold Coast, Australia) to walk along The Spit or bodysurf. I'm a glitter lover and obsessor of all things fashion and wishing to adopt a fur-baby soon. Currently, I'm residing and working in broadcast media in the UAE since 2017.
How did you get started in radio and who were your early influences?
The catalyst was my relocation from working in Outback Queensland, Australia as a rural radiographer and sonographer, to Tokyo, Japan, where I first delved into the entertainment and media industry. My budding days of radio began at an independent community station in Brisbane, Australia called 4ZZZ. I was also a volunteer radio presenter at 4RPH (Radio for Print Handicapped) and volunteer narrator at Vision Australia.
What were some of your main goals when you started out as a radio presenter?
To prompt my listener to smile or laugh, a moment’s distraction and relief from life’s worries and stresses. This remains my objective today, but now more so with a strong emphasis to positively connect, engage and uplift my audience.
In what ways is it harder being a female radio presenter? And what can be done to support women in the industry?
I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s harder, as I’ve been fortunate not to be subject to any bias. However, depending who and where you are, I think there’s the risk of being typecast, filling a stereotypical gender-based role on air. It’s imperative to seek a level platform where all points of view are heard and respected, irrespective of gender; work in a progressive organisation that advocates for equal opportunity.
What advice would you give to women looking to join your profession?
Own your true voice; don’t be shy from boldly sharing your convictions. Fundamentally be YOU, authenticity is paramount.
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt and why?
I would like to try children’s TV presenting. The ingenuity of a child’s limitless and untainted perspective is not just inspiring and fascinating, but personally fulfilling when you nurture and cultivate their boundless potential.
Who are other radio presenters that you look up to as role models and why?
The late James Aramouni: his honest ability and gift of communicating and connecting with listeners on a genuine and empathetic level.
Also, the late Lucy Stone: her raw music passion could fire up any passive listener.
What would you say is your biggest achievement to date?
Completing a ten-day absolute silence retreat known as Vipassana in Bombay, India, which as you can appreciate for the fact I talk for a living, was a struggle and a half!
Who/What inspires you to achieve and why?
My parents inspire me because of their endless, unabiding support and cheerleading of all my pursuits, not to mention the countless opportunities they have afforded me, that have undoubtedly led me here which I am forever grateful for. I am my biggest critic, so they provide the rationale and grounding that I sometimes need reminding of.
What is your definition of success?
Rising above the inner doubting voice by 'leaning in' and challenging fears, despite their power to be paralysing, in order to embark on personal growth and development.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
At the time, I was completing my Bachelor of Applied Science, questioning my choice of study. In hindsight, I understand that trajectory was not 'forever', and career metamorphosis is achievable and in reality, inevitable. Three key mindsets I have since adopted: allow time for success; take the risk and let go of perfection.
How do you look after your mental health?
I engage in music therapy daily, it's my elixir. Importantly, scheduling time to invest in myself through self-care in the form of massages, time in nature, Zumba that allows me to recharge and reboot. And of course, satisfying my sweet tooth!
What is that one quote you live by?
I have to say I live by two quotes:
“My philosophy is: it’s none of my business what people say of me and think of me. I am what I am and I do what I do. I expect nothing and accept everything. And it makes life so much easier.” ―Sir Anthony Hopkins
“If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”
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