With support from WLI’s Leadership Fund, Ashlyn Vilash, a WLI participant and Master of Communications and Media Studies student at Monash University, successfully completed a work placement at ABC Radio’s Nesia Daily in Brisbane.
The Nesia Daily Show is a live, two-hour show that connects Pacific Island countries through light-hearted interviews, fun chats, and Island music. The show is run by members of the Pacific diaspora and features Pacific guests only, creating an authentic and culturally grounded space for Pacific conversations.
“The purpose of my professional internship was to deepen my understanding of media production and to gain exposure to a regional media industry that works closely with the Pacific. By choosing ABC, I hoped to build meaningful connections with journalists and media personnel who work hard to amplify Pacific voices and learn how things are done in public service media houses,” explains Ashlyn.
Ashlyn, who is from Fiji, shared that the work placement, which she did as part of WLI's LeadershipConnect program, not only gave her insight into the editorial and technical processes used in radio broadcasting, it also taught her how to “navigate cultural sensitivities and promote discussions that matter to the Pacific.”
“As an Australia Awards scholar, I made it a goal to develop myself holistically throughout my Master's journey. I have participated in WLI’s LeadershipConnect program throughout both years of my degree. I was grateful to receive the funding and support from WLI to undertake this experience with ABC’s Pacific radio team, whose commitment to serving and developing the Pacific closely aligns with my Pacific roots and professional aspirations,” shares Ashlyn.
Stepping out of her comfort zone
Although Ashlyn’s role primarily involved working as an assistant producer, she maximised the opportunity in terms of both professional and personal growth, stepping out of her comfort zone and co-hosting the show live on air.
“I pushed myself as I wanted to better understand both the perspective of presenting on-air and supporting presenters from the producer’s booth. I also spoke to guests and segment hosts coming on the show, co-scripted interview questions and talking points, and helped with this on-call interview,” adds Ashlyn proudly.
It’s good to talk
For many people, speaking live on-air would be too daunting an undertaking. For Ashlyn, this was a challenge she was prepared to tackle head-on – not just once – but on three out of the five days of her placement.
“Doing this helped me realise that I’m actually far more outgoing and capable than I believed, which gives me immense courage to continue my journey in exploring the many career opportunities out there in media and communications,” says Ashlyn.
“I discovered that it’s very easy for me to build friendships and networks, and not only with the Nesia Daily team, but with other teams working on other Pacific shows across various departments.”
“This experience has shown me how strong my interpersonal skills are; my adaptability, resilience, growth, quick learning, and the ability to fit in with multicultural teams and those that work remotely.”
Thriving during her placement at Neisa Daily has not only had a positive impact on Ashlyn’s confidence when it comes to leading projects and openly contributing her ideas, she feels it’s also given her invaluable insight into some of the social issues effecting the Pacific region that can be addressed through high-quality media. One show that particularly stands out for Ashlyn is SistasLet’s Talk, which she says: “speaks out on Pacific women’s issues that are often culturally tabooed.”
Strong networks & lasting connections
Sharing how she intends to ensure her professional opportunity translates to supporting quality media in the Pacific, Ashlyn pinpoints the networks she can now access, as well as a better understanding of how advanced technology plays an important role in both regional and international media.
“I’ve obtained new knowledge about how a regional media organisation with advanced technology and resources operates. I’m also now a voluntary contact point for the ABC Pacific Radio team for sourcing interviewees and for assistance with stories related to Fiji,” says Ashlyn.
“Personally, I wanted a chance to make connections that would later be useful, not just for my career trajectory in the Pacific, but also aid in developing Fiji’s media and communications industry through training and knowledge sharing.”
For Ashlyn, the main objectives of the LeadershipConnect’s program to help participants build their leadership skills, knowledge and networks certainly seems to have paid off.
“I encourage Australia Awards scholars to actively participate in the LeadershipConnect program and make the most of the opportunities it offers. My placement has shown me how stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to valuable experiences, meaningful connections, and professional growth.”
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Learn more about WLI's LeadershipConnect program.