MULS 2023 Diverse Careers Guide by Macquarie University Law Society

2023

MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY LAW SOCIETY

Diverse Careers Guide

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02 04 06-40

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Table of Contents

Welcome Why Follow A Non-Traditional Pathway A Conversation With...

Director of Publications

Acknowledgement

Mikaela Mariano

Macquarie University Law Society acknowledges the traditional custodians of the Macquarie University Land, the Wallumattagal clan of the Darug Nation, whose cultures and customs have nurtured, and continue to nurture, this land, since the Dreamtime. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

Director of Career Engagement Kristy Spinelli

Designer Julien Ortiz

Contributors Vanessa Li Zara Bending Sonya Willis Katherine Giles Sharmila Jayasinghe Jack Crittenden Calli Tsipidis

DISCLAIMER The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor, Publications Director or the Macquarie University Law Society, and this publication is in no way associated with Macquarie University. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this guide as of November 8th 2023, please note that such information is subject to change without notice. The advice provided in this publication is intended solely for advisory purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. This publication is being distributed free of charge, with the understanding that the authors, Editor, Publications Director, and any persons related to this publication bear no responsibility for any actions or omissions made based on the information provided within this publication. By using this guide, the user acknowledges that they are personally responsible for their own actions and will not hold the Editor, Publications Director, or Macquarie University Law Society liable for any damages resulting from the use of this publication.

Diverse Careers Guide

Welcome

Welcome. Director of Publications

Director of Career Engagement

Welcome to the inaugural Diverse Careers Publication! On behalf of Kristy and I, we are incredibly excited to present this to you. As law students, it's natural to contemplate whether the traditional path of becoming a lawyer is the right fit for your entire career. While there's absolutely nothing wrong with pursuing a legal career, Kristy and I created this publication with the understanding that some students may be curious about exploring alternative paths. We want you to know that it's entirely okay to consider these possibilities. Our publication covers a wide range of career options, from Creative Director to Academics, Author, and Policy Professional. The goal of this guide is to empower students and show them that a law degree opens doors to countless opportunities. You should never feel ashamed to explore these possibilities and think beyond the conventional legal path. Your legal education equips you with versatile skills that can be applied in a variety of fields, and we hope this publication inspires you to pursue a career that aligns with your passion and interests. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to those who contributed to this publication. Your dedication, time, and willingness to share your experiences have not gone unnoticed. Your contributions have served as a source of inspiration and empowerment. Thank you once again!

Thank you for reading our inaugural Diverse Careers Guide! This collaboration between Mikaela, our Director of Publications (and incoming President), and myself as the Director of Careers aims to shed light on less conventional career paths for law students. We understand the stress of navigating your post-law degree journey and hope this guide eases that burden. With the incredible interviewees within, we hope you feel confident to pursue your own career journey, and are reminded that you do not need to “have it all figured out” yet. As the Careers Director, I am passionate about helping students discover their ideal career paths, especially those who, like me not long ago, are uncertain about their options and where to begin. On behalf of MULS and our students, I would like to thank all of the esteemed interviewees who gracefully gave up their time to be interviewed — this guide would not be possible without them, and their personal insights are inspiring. It goes without saying that I would also like to acknowledge Mikaela for her fantastic effort in assembling this high-quality guide. A special thanks to Julien Ortiz, our dedicated graphic designer, who tirelessly crafted this publication and others this year.

Mikaela Mariano

Kristy Spinelli

Happy reading!

Diverse Careers Guide

Why follow a non-traditional pathway?

Why follow a non-traditional pathway? The field of law is an exciting and surprisingly diverse profession that offers a multitude of opportunities and avenues for exploration. While a career in a traditional law firm can be incredibly rewarding, it's essential for aspiring law graduates to understand that their potential extends far beyond this one option. The world of law is not limited to courtroom battles and legal documentation; it permeates every aspect of our society and touches upon numerous areas of life.

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We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where students from all walks of life feel empowered to explore their creative outlets and engage in critical analysis and debates about law.

In doing so, we aim to foster a holistic understanding of the law's role in shaping our world. More than simply preparing students for traditional legal roles, we aspire to nurture their potential as informed citizens and future leaders. We believe in acknowledging and celebrating students for their dedicated efforts, with the ultimate goal of developing their skills and expertise. Our mission is to help shape today's students into the well-informed, forward-thinking leaders of tomorrow.

DO YOU (ALREADY) HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?

THE 7 IN-DEMAND TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

When applying for jobs, you need to convince employers that you have the skills, knowledge and motivation to excel at their organisation. Employers understand that core legal skills – like drafting and advocacy – are developed over the course of a career. So they’re also keen to know which transferable skills you’ve already acquired outside the world of law. Take a moment to reflect on the skills you’ve been sharpening in several settings, such as your: •

General work experience

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Sport teams

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University projects

•

Community activities

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Volunteering

Now, let’s examine the top transferable skills employers want to see in new grads. And how each one will prove useful time and again throughout your career.

The top transferable skills you can bring to a legal role 1.

Problem-solving: Determining what is legally relevant requires you to sift through lots of information and establish the legal significance of key findings. Likewise, you’ll draw upon your creativity and strategic thinking to identify client objectives and solve novel problems.

Research: As a new grad, you’ll often need to locate and read through cases, statutes and other materials. You’ll draw on your research skills as you navigate legal databases, legislation and physical texts to resolve complex questions.

Verbal communication: To be successful in law, you’ll need to state cases with precision. It’s key that you distil facts and information into an easy-to-understand summary. Many similar skills will also be valuable throughout your career – like empathic listening, asking the right questions, formulating arguments and interviewing.

Negotiation: From time to time, you’ll be asked to resolve challenging issues in a way that both parties find acceptable. You’ll need to learn about the strengths and weaknesses of the other person’s position – to help propose a mutually agreeable resolution.

Written communication: You’ll often need to write for specific audiences and formats – like case notes, letters, memos, legal pleadings, court documents and contracts. So being clear, succinct and engaging is key. Translating complex legal concepts for clients and stakeholders is a very valuable skill.

Time management: Legal organisations are often fast-paced and high-pressure environments. If you can demonstrate your ability to juggle conflicting priorities and workloads, employers will welcome you with open arms.

Client management: Building healthy, ongoing relationships with stakeholders will be a core task throughout your career. Some clients may prove to be extremely demanding due to their challenging legal circumstances. So strong people management skills will allow you to manage the diverse needs of your clients.

Want to gain sought-after skills, fresh thinking – and the most supportive network of mentors you could hope for? Gain the expertise you need to excel with Practical Legal Training. Learn more at collaw.edu.au/PLT

Diverse Careers Guide

Vanessa Li

A Conversation With

Vanessa Li

@vnessali on instagram.

Vanessa Li is an Australian-born-Chinese entrepreneur, creative director, content creator and consultant based in Sydney.

Vanessa recently completed a Bachelor of Laws/ Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) degree at the University of Sydney. With years of valuable experience as a Paralegal, having worked in both top-tier commercial firms and boutique firms, Vanessa has taken an exciting leap into the creative and digital media realm. She draws upon her background in law, business, marketing, and fashion to inspire her multifaceted pursuits, which include content creation, social media and brand consulting and talent management.

Since embarking on her creative career, Vanessa has partnered with the likes of luxury fashion houses including Prada, Miu Miu, Bottega Veneta and Bulgari; as well as beauty brands including Armani Beauty, Lancôme and Sulwhasoo. Notably, she has also founded her own media company, BLOOM BY HER, which serves to connect diverse creators in partnerships with global brands. Such reflects her fervent dedication to advocating for diversity and inclusion within the fashion and social media industries.

Diverse Careers Guide

Vanessa Li

Can you tell us about your career journey so far?

It would be remiss of me not to start from the very beginning — I grew up in a Chinese immigrant family that prioritised education, academic success and financial stability. From a young age, I was studious and academically inclined, but also naturally very creative (I loved art, reading and writing, and music). My mother ran a fashion company, so creativity was always a part of my life, but I chose to focus on my academics as I believed this was the ‘right’ thing to do. At the age of 16, I decided I wanted to become a lawyer. From then on, I relentlessly pursued this goal and achieved the ATAR needed to study a Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Laws degree at my dream university: University of Sydney. It was at this time, I set my sights on becoming one of the first Asian female partners within a top-tier law firm.

Growing up, my parents taught me to always be the hardest worker in the room: that perseverance and work ethic translated into everything that I chose to pursue. I was the first in my family to go into law school, meaning that I had no connections in the legal profession when I started my degree. Because of that, I knew that I needed to go the extra mile and put myself out there in comparison to others who already had established legal networks. Despite having zero legal experience, in my first year, I remember I sent my resume and cover letter to over 200 law firms within the Sydney CBD in an effort to get my foot in the door.

Amid a mountain of rejections and non-responses, I received one reply from the principal solicitor at a small boutique firm in Wynyard. In my interview, I transparently told him that even though I lacked legal experience, I promised that I wanted to learn from him and that I would work three times harder than any other applicant. That: landed me the job. After working there for a year, I began applying for roles at larger firms. In second year, I received a call from Gilbert + Tobin asking if I could speak Cantonese as they needed a Cantonese speaker for a document review matter. Out of the thousands of applicants, only two candidates (myself included) had indicated that they could speak Cantonese. I said yes, and I got the job (some might say, by sheer luck). After a few weeks in the firm, I was promoted to a paralegal role within the Knowledge and Practice Innovation team, which allows me to tap into my creative and innovative side. All throughout this time, I had a small Instagram page where I would casually create and post aesthetic photos of landscapes and food for my own purposes as a creative outlet. The turning point in my career trajectory was the nation-wide COVID lockdowns. Without having to commute to work or university, I found myself with a few hours to spare each day. During this time, I struggled with finding fulfilment in my day-to-day life and in my work, and turned to photography and creativity as a source of comfort and self-expression. Being classically trained in fine art and photography from a young age, this felt like second nature to me and brought me a lot of joy. It was then that I began to post more consistently on my Instagram account. Drawing from my love of fashion (inspired by my Mum), I began sharing my daily outfits and styling tips online, and (somehow) began receiving traction from a growing audience.

Diverse Careers Guide

Vanessa Li

As my social presence grew, I began noticing the lack of cultural diversity within the fashion industry. As an Asian-Australian, I deeply wished to see more faces that looked like mine. One of my first social media collaborations was with a well-known womenswear brand that I reached out to to express my hopes to see more diversity within their brand imagery — and they replied by (funnily enough) offering me a $100 worth of clothing credit per month in exchange for posting on my Instagram. It was then that I realised that my platform had an influence and was also a form of social currency. Back then, my legal career still came first, and I convinced myself that my creative pursuits were mere passion projects. After the pandemic, I was invited to my first Australian Fashion Week (which conveniently fell

during the same week as my final exams for law school). I felt so much imposter syndrome when I walked into my first show. It was during the same week that I unfortunately experienced some racial remarks and microaggressions towards my Asian heritage. This fuelled my desire to make a greater impact and create a space for people of colour within the creative industry: and that is why I started BLOOM. After a few months of balancing law school, my business, my personal brand and my job in law, I took a calculated risk and decided to put my legal career on the back burner.

A major turning point for me was when I changed my mindset. There was a day where I asked myself “Am I doing this [pursuing a legal career] because I want to do it? Or, is it because I think it is the right thing to do?”. In our twenties, many of us follow a welltrodden ‘default’ path — going to university, landing a graduate job and climbing the corporate ladder until we retire. However, very few of us pause and reflect on whether the default path truly aligns with our own values and our purpose. My answer was the latter. It was then that I gave myself an ultimatum: if my income from my personal brand can exceed what I could earn at a law firm, it is a risk worth taking. I am a calculated

risk-taker, so I evaluated the opportunity with an Excel spreadsheet and a decision matrix. Numbers aside, I knew that if I put my time and energy into something I was passionate about, I would find fulfilment and success. Taking the mentality that my parents instilled with me, I promised myself that I would be the hardest worker in the room: no matter the industry or career. I also realised that the legal profession would always be there, but it would be near impossible to come by the opportunities I had as a creative again. The deciding factor for me was the following question: "If I were to die tomorrow, would I regret not taking this opportunity?" My answer was: yes.

Diverse Careers Guide

Vanessa Li

And so, I quit my job in law and the rest has been history. Breaking out of the mentality that society often prescribes—a strict and linear path—was one of the hardest things I’ve had to do. There is a prevailing belief that it is wrong to deviate from this path.

What challenges or obstacles did you encounter on your path to your current position, and could you highlight one specific challenge you faced?

Did any challenges or setbacks ultimately have a positive impact in the long run?

I truly believe that every challenge or failure is an opportunity to learn and grow.

When I first started, my biggest challenge was accepting the reality that I was a young Asian female entrepreneur in the Australian media space. With multiple layers of disadvantage, I consciously chose not to adopt a victim mindset even though I did face many barriers in establishing legitimacy I didn’t experience a single defining moment, but rather there was a build up of a series of moments and presence within the media industry. I eventually learned that instead of trying to make space as a that compelled me to take my current path. person of colour by cutting a piece of the pie, I could One such moment was when I had the opportunity to take an internship at an investment create my own space and bake a whole new pie. The loneliness of entrepreneurship was bank. I was faced with a decision to accept or another challenge I faced. Starting as a onedecline the offer by the morning. Deeply unsure woman business, I navigated the start-up journey about my course of action, I sought advice from alone for quite a while before I hired my team. In my Mum at 2am in the morning.. the beginning, I found it difficult not being taken She told me: “If you genuinely wanted this, you would’ve accepted it without hesitation.” This seriously by stakeholders in the industry as I was a small fish in a vast sea of many fish. I soon realised made me realise that my second-guessing was that I had to take the same mindset I took years a sign to reject the offer. After doing so, I felt a back when I applied to those 200 law firms: persist huge sense of relief. I knew that I made the right and stay resilient. decision. Last year, burnout was another challenge Leaving law was the scariest decision of my that entered the picture. All my life, I’ve defined life: it symbolised me closing the door on Baby my self-worth by my productivity. I found satisVanessa’s childhood dream. faction in filling my calendar with work, study, business commitments and events, but I did not set boundaries for play and relaxation. Working over 100 hours a week for over two years, I failed to prioritise my own health and well-being. I had always considered myself mentally resilient, but this experience taught me the importance of balance and self-care. I began to prioritise my own needs and found a healthier work-life ‘balance’.

Diverse Careers Guide

Vanessa Li

Pretend you’re about to complete your degree and about to embark on your career. What advice would you give yourself, and students at that stage currently?

I would give three pieces of advice:

2. Call yourself out, set boundaries and prioritise self-care. Often, we get caught up in following a structured 1. Be open to everything and seize opportunities.

path to pursue one end goal. Consequently, we may deflect or miss opportunities that we perceive as irrelevant. But, the reality is: if you are not opening up your mind to new things, how are you supposed to create a life that fulfils you? What happens if you reach your end goal and realise that you’re not happy?Embracing diverse opportunities allows you to learn and grow in various aspects of life. Don't put up walls that limit your potential by closing yourself off to new things. You never know where a door may take you.

Your wellbeing is the core of succeeding in your career, relationships and in life generally. Younger me made the mistake of focusing fully on my career and finances, at the expense of my well-being and relationships. Learning to set boundaries and scheduling ‘me time’ and ‘connection time’ has been game changing for me. A handy exercise to gain greater clarity is to ask yourself: ‘What are my top 3 values?’. Now, look at your calendar and tell me if the way you spend your time reflects your values. If you value family, how much time are you spending with them versus the time you spend studying in the library? Being brutally honest with yourself is instrumental in creating long-lasting change (it’s healthy to call yourself out once in a while).

3. Put yourself out there and be proactive. Don't wait for opportunities to come to you, create opportunities for yourself. Be proactive in seeking out opportunities to grow, learn, and connect. Don't let your ego or fear of rejection hold you back. Be open to putting yourself out there, even if it means facing the possibility of failure or rejection. Every setback can be an opportunity to learn and grow, so don't view failure as a negative; instead, see it as a valuable learning experience and be resilient in your pursuit of your definition of success.

Diverse Careers Guide

Vanessa Li

You have taken pride in your role as a trailblazing advocate for diversity and inclusion within the fashion, beauty, and lifestyle industries since entering the digital media space. Your company, ‘BLOOM BY HER’,' stands as a testament to your commitment to empower creators from diverse backgrounds. Can you share how your law degree has provided you with the versatility to fulfil this vision?

My law degree has been immensely beneficial to me, not only in terms of its content but also in how it has trained me to think. It has honed my problemsolving skills in a very logical and systematic way. Whether it's tackling conceptual essay questions or distilling complex legal principles, I've learned to break down complex issues into manageable, logical steps. This approach has been instrumental in starting and running my business. When I began my business, I used the same logical thinking that I acquired in law school. I created a scaffold (reminiscent of a problem question scaffold) for starting my business and broke down each element of business into manageable, logical parts. This analytical approach has proven invaluable in helping me tackle a range of intricate business challenges, from negotiations and marketing to branding. It has allowed me to delve into the intricacies of the primary elements while also considering and comprehending the finer details and client preferences. Law school and working in the legal profession trained me to think and conduct myself in a way that has been invaluable to my business and in my interactions with clients Whether it involves drafting employee contracts, pitching creative ideas or communicating with my clients — my legal background has enabled me to step out confidently and professionally.

One of my former bosses in law was instrumental in my decision to pursue my creative career. She told me: ‘Vanessa, the law will always be here, but opportunities like this [your creative career] won’t. You would be silly not to take it.’ Whenever I have moments of doubt, I find comfort in her words and support. Since then, my business has experienced strong growth. We have evolved from a talent management agency to a media company with three divisions: talent, consulting and creative. I have had the opportunity to work with incredible clients on campaigns and travel the world for work. I recently returned from visiting New York for a business trip with plans to move there next year. That being said, I still hope to complete my PLT and get admitted as a solicitor soon too: my door in law is entirely not closed (yet).

Diverse Careers Guide

Zara Bending & Sonya Willis

A Conversation With

Zara Bending & Sonya Willis In this interview we spoke with Macquarie Law School Academics Dr Sonya Willis and Zara Bending.

Zara Bending Zara is passionate about the intersection between criminology and wildlife conservation and has researched this area extensively both globally. Zara is a resident expert on wildlife crime for the Jane Goodall Institute Global and served multiple terms as Board Director of the Jane Goodall Institute Australia. Her work was recognised in 2022 when she was a Grand Finalist for the Future Directors Institute ‘Future Director of the Year’ Award. Zara teaches units regularly in both the LLB and JD courses at Macquarie and beyond and is famous amongst students for her Foundations of Law classes.

Dr Sonya Willis Sonya is an editor of the Legal Education Review, and author of Civil Dispute Resolution: Balancing Themes and Theory 2022, and Civil Procedure 2012. Sonya has worked at a top accounting firm as a tax accountant, a litigator in a top commercial law firm, completed her PhD on case management and is now researching vulnerable litigants. Sonya sits on the Board of Directors for Dunmore Lang College and teaches undergraduate and postgraduate students in both civil and criminal procedure, and taxation law.

Diverse Careers Guide

Zara Bending & Sonya Willis

What was your first job? Zara: My first job was being a learn-to-swim

Sonya: My first paid job was babysitting as a

instructor where I taught young children to swim with a range of classes suited to accommodate a range of varying needs. Years later, I encountered one of the students that I taught as a swim instructor in one of my Foundations of Law lectures, it was a surreal moment!

teenager and tutoring on the side. Shortly after school, I worked for a small boutique firm during the holidays as a receptionist. I had the best phone manners, and worked for a partner who required his tea to be dunked precisely 21 times.

Can you tell us about your career journey so far? Sonya: My career journey began with an economics degree at Sydney University majoring in commercial law and accounting. Before graduation, I received several job offers and, given my interest in the law, I decided to pursue tax at one of the big international accounting firms. After two years of full-time work, I enrolled in a law degree, working full-time at my accounting firm by day and studying law in the evenings. During my law degree I competed in both the Jessup and Vis moots, which made me good at working all day, going to practice moots, and then returning to the office to work on submissions and coursework before doing it all again the next day. I did once pull two all-nighters in a row, which I do not recommend. Upon completing my law degree (where I was fortunate to win the University Medal), I received a job offer from Blake Dawson (now Ashurst) and worked as a commercial litigator (with subspecialties in taxation, employment, and international commercial arbitration) for nearly a decade. During that time, I taught private international law and the Vis International Arbitration Moot at UTS in the evenings and weekends (which gave me a wonderful annual trip to Vienna to arbitrate). I also took a year off from Ashurst to complete my Masters in law at Cambridge. Eventually attempting to parent and litigate simultaneously became a bit of a struggle and I was awarded a scholarship to undertake my PhD

at Sydney University where I also taught casually and on contract. My PhD, submitted in 2017, focused on procedural fairness. In 2016, I became a permanent academic at Macquarie University, researching and teaching predominantly in civil procedure and private international law including publishing two books on Civil Procedure in 2012 and 2022. I continue to be obsessed with procedural fairness which led me to my present research into the plight of vulnerable litigants. I am currently writing an article reporting on interviews I have undertaken in the past few years with judicial personnel about the introduction of a potential vulnerable litigant selfassessment tool to improve judicial awareness of individual litigants’ circumstances. Recently I turned my back on two decades of private international law teaching to return to teaching tax. My unit focuses on how tax operates (both intentionally and unintentionally) to shape human behaviour as this approach helps students make sense of what can, otherwise, seem a very complex and bewildering area of law.

Zara: During my time at university, I embarked on a diverse range of experiences and activities. Alongside pursuing my LLB and Social Science degrees, I tutored, worked with the Disability Unit, became a Student Advisor, and did my full year Honours dissertation. It was here that my love of research developed. An important turning point in my journey occurredwhile interning for the

Diverse Careers Guide

Zara Bending & Sonya Willis

Office for Women in Violence Prevention for the Department of Premier and Cabinet, focusing on domestic violence issues. I started publishing peerreviewed articles from my Honours thesis which was supervised by Dr Carlos Bernal-Pulido before he became a judge of the Constitutional Court of Colombia. However, my interests expanded to include conservation, leading me to start a PhD about palm oil while working at Taronga Zoo. While working at Taronga Zoo, I heard a ranger talking about how wildlife trafficking should be treated similarly to drug and human trafficking because of the organised crime actors involved. It was at this moment that I realised my love for criminology, international and domestic law, and conservation could intersect by investigating wildlife trafficking. I am submitting my PhD in this field, while teaching, and balancing corporate and not-for-profit sector work, including my engagements with the Jane Goodall Institute Australia and Jane Goodall Institute Global. As a wildlife crime expert, I’ve been called as an expert witness before parliamentary inquires and criminal trials; and internationally I spend a lot of time within the UN treaty frameworks. Sometimes

this involves making submissions to the UN, for example a group of students and I co-authored a submission to the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights on the right to a clean and healthy environment and we were cited in their final report on ‘best practice — each of us individually named! The UN Human Rights Council went onto recognise it as a human right! On other occasions I’m in the NGO coalition space supporting Member States in how to approach their international obligations. Currently, my favourite project is working with the Global Initiative to End Wildlife Crime which aims to support the creation of the first global agreement on wildlife crime (a protocol to the UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crime) as well as support a One Health approach to wildlife trade (including preventing pandemics at the source). Teaching always has my heart, and right now I’m judging for the Australian Awards for University Teaching for the second time, which feels like paying it forward after I got my national citation for teaching excellence for ‘inspiring the next generation of legal scholars, advocates, and change-makers through holistic mentorship and transformative learning design.'

Law school often follows a structured and linear path, where the expectation is to complete the Practical Legal Training (PLT) and secure a law graduate position. How did you discover alternative career options while still leveraging your law degree in an industry that typically emphasises this traditional route? Zara: I haven’t ruled out firm life, public service, or going to the bar. However, as my career has progressed, I became more interested in changing laws and making a broader impact. I realised that even with the best client service, the laws in the areas I worked within were so inadequate that had these laws remained, I wouldn't be able to assist clients effectively. So, I chose to focus on academia to be the sort of expert who could assist organisations trying to make a difference and maximise my sphere of impact. I chose to focus on academia and working with organisations that aligned with my values and principles. Whether

you undertake PLT (Practical Legal Training) or not, legal knowledge is a superpower as the knowledge and skillset it provides is very valuable in a variety of aspects of life. Knowing I can assist multiple stakeholders, (from students to NGOs) and lawmakers (from Australian politicians, to the House of Lords in the UK, and the halls of international law) because of my legal background is incredibly rewarding, and illustrates that legal knowledge enables you to make a difference not just within the law, but beyond. This has been an empowering realisation which has further fuelled my research and advocacy.

Diverse Careers Guide

Zara Bending & Sonya Willis

Sonya: I took a somewhat untraditional legal path by starting my career as an accountant. However, my accounting career has assisted me, both as a lawyer, and an academic. I really enjoyed working at Ashurst as a litigator, but, by the time I had two children, court scheduling became increasingly difficult to manage. While I could manage hanging laundry whilst supervising a toddler and dictating client advice over the phone to my secretary, the opportunity to research my passion project

(while maintaining family life) prompted a switch to academia. Academia allows me to feel like I am helping to make the world a better place, particularly through research that addresses the needs of vulnerable litigants.

"Academia allows me to feel like I am helping to make the world a better place."

Were there any obstacles or “setbacks” that ended up being positive in the long run? Sonya: During my time as a litigator, I was

Zara: Like many students, I had my sights set on a

once accused of lying by a partner. The partner requested I ask a witness to say something in her affidavit which I knew, from my work with her, that she would not agree to say. However, the partner insisted I ask her anyway. I reluctantly asked the witness the question, and she confirmed what I suspected. When I informed the partner, he accused me of lying and kicked his table in frustration. Subsequently, without telling me, the partner spoke to the witness himself who confirmed my recount of events. He never informed me of this (I only found out because the witness told me) nor apologised for his behaviour. This and similar incidents with the same partner prompted me to undertake an LLM at Cambridge University. My year at Cambridge proved to be one of the best years of my life. During my time there, I was taught by a host of brilliant scholars including James Crawford, Lord Goff and Graham Virgo, sang evensong twice weekly with the Trinity Hall Choir in the College Chapel built in 1350, met House of Lords judges and witnessed the appeal of a case we were studying, performed in an original College play, rowed the Cam in the bumps, attended the College May Ball and was awarded first class honours in my LLM. While I wouldn’t say the encounter with that partner was in any way positive, it led me to an amazing year at Cambridge.

clerkship with a specific firm who had prestigious medical-law clients. However, I did not obtain this clerkship, and at the time, this felt like a significant 'setback'. I cried on public transport, and lied to my parents, suggesting I was fine and had work to do. However, that night, I was determined to not be a victim and wanted to explore new pathways. From here, I applied for a volunteer role with Taronga Zoo, recognising my passion for animals. This change in perspective allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals who shared my passion for animal welfare and conservation. Through this, I found both my purpose and my research topic. It's worth noting that while it initially was not fun to face this rejection, I now realise that it paved the way for my entry into a PhD program, a significant step in my academic and professional journey. This experience taught me the value of resilience and the importance of recognising that setbacks can often be pathways to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities. If I had not experienced this so-called 'setback', I would not have accomplished what I have.

Diverse Careers Guide

Zara Bending & Sonya Willis

Pretend you're about to complete your degree and about to embark on your career. What advice would you give yourself, and students at that stage currently?

Zara: First and foremost, I would remind myself

Sonya: I would emphasise that everyone has

not to dwell on the past. It's essential not to fixate on the rearview mirror while driving your career forward. Setting rigid 5 to 10-year plans can lead to unrealistic expectations and a feeling of failure if we don't meet them. Further, these inflexible goals often keep us narrow-minded and less open to pursuing other opportunities which may be equally, or potentially even more fulfilling. There may be times in your career where you don’t feel like you’re in control, and that’s perfectly fine — your career will likely go through stages of unpredictability and that is normal. As students, it is worth noting that you shouldn’t pigeonhole yourselves into pursuing “conventional” paths only. Your career is a personal journey, and it should primarily focus on fulfilling your own aspirations rather than conforming to societal norms. Ultimately, you will be working for a substantial period, you want to ensure that you enjoy what you do rather than selecting a path that you don’t enjoy because it feels like everyone else is doing it. If I had done that, I wouldn't have experienced the most meaningful relationships that have shaped my journey, including those with my childhood idol, Jane Goodall, and my incredible friends and colleagues at Macquarie, WSU, and SIBT.

a different path in their career journey. If you have a genuine desire to achieve something, you will find a way. It’s not always about rushing to get where you want to be; sometimes, you need to let life’s experiences and opportunities naturally accumulate. One of the best things about a legal career is the longevity it provides. Law is a profession that allows people to thrive into their later years and respects those who do. For example, some judges have retired from the bench, and have then become mediators, arbitrators, or have gone back to the bar, working for many years after their judicial retirement at 70. I personally know a former Dean of Law who completed his PhD at the age of 82. Old lawyers can definitely still learn new tricks. So, you have time to try your hand at a variety of careers inside and outside the law and the law will always be there waiting for you to return if you choose to.

Finally, I'd tell myself and students not to succumb to the pressure often placed on young people, the notion that 'you can have it all.' It doesn’t mean having everything all at once. It’s important to recognise that life is a marathon, not a sprint.

Zara and Sonya: Focus on running your own race. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others, but life is not a competition. Each person’s journey is unique, and it’s important to follow your own path at your own pace. Finally, we would highlight the example of Jane Goodall, a remarkable individual who spent her early twenties as a waitress to earn enough money to undertake her first research trip in Africa. Goodall likely didn’t start her journey thinking she would become one of the most important figures in animal conservation, yet here we are. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary and impactful journeys aren’t the ones you anticipate at the beginning. Everyone starts somewhere, and no two lives are the same – there is no right or wrong way to pursue a legal career. So, stay open to unexpected opportunities and possibilities.

Diverse Careers Guide

Zara Bending & Sonya Willis

Outside of the law, and your incredibly busy lives, do you have any hobbies or things you enjoy that keep you sane? Zara: Admittedly, sometimes it is difficult to 'switch

Sonya: I have a black belt in jiu-jitsu and train every

off' from work. That said, I love visiting wildlife parks as a visitor rather than as a researcher which I find quite tranquil and allows me to enjoy my passion for wildlife without an expectation of producing an output. I’m also a bird mum to two birds, Sunny, and Eugene, and I propagate succulents. Recently, I have also really appreciated the importance of physical fitness, and its ability to help me decompress which I highly recommend. Noting that legal and advocacy wins are often long and hard fought, anything that enables instant gratification is advantageous. I have found that making things from scratch is a hobby of mine, whether it be cooking, or making both candles and makeup.

week which helps keep me active both mentally and physically. I also try to walk in my local national park every morning to help my sanity. I sang at Sydney University and Cambridge, and I’d love to start a Macquarie law school choir as a surprising number of us sing. It is probably no surprise that watching my daughters perform is my happy place, whether they’re singing, dancing, or playing an instrument in a concert or play or musical. In the holidays, we usually go to a beach and go on hikes in the bush. I find being in wide open spaces like the ocean incredibly beneficial.

Diverse Careers Guide

Katherine Giles

A Conversation With

Katherine Giles

Pictured center: Katherine Giles.

Katherine Giles is a specialist IP and Media lawyer and the Head of Legal and Operations at the Arts Law Centre of Australia. Katherine has worked in the IP and Media team at MinterEllison and in-house at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. At Arts Law, Katherine leads the delivery of Arts Law’s legal services, manages operational matters and provides artists and arts

organisations with legal advice across of range of areas including, copyright law and policy, general intellectual property, commercial transactions, privacy and pre-publication content issues spanning defamation, contempt, suppression and non-publication orders.

Diverse Careers Guide

Katherine Giles

What was your first job? Growing up I had a strong desire to secure parttime employment, primarily to start saving money and have the chance to earn my own income. At the age of exactly 14 years and 9 months, I set out on my job-hunting journey. It was a different era back then with no online applications, and the process involved pounding the pavement and personally submitting resumes. This suited my "get on your feet" mentality at the time. My very first job was as a cashier at Bi-Lo Supermarket in Newcastle, and

after that I worked at Pizza Hut. Although the job wasn't exactly what I had dreamed of doing in the long run, it turned out to be a humbling experience. I had the opportunity to interact with a diverse range of customers, some of whom were quite friendly and others who were less so. It was an eye-opener to see people coming into the supermarket with food vouchers, which made me appreciate the value of hard work and the challenges that many people face.

Can you tell us about your career journey so far? My career journey as a lawyer has been quite a unique and rewarding one. It all began when I joined the Arts Law Centre of Australia (Arts Law), a relatively small organisation at the time with just eight employees. Arts Law is Australia’s national community legal centre for the arts. This was a place where I was introduced to the world of law and its intersection with the creative industry. Back then, Arts Law didn't have paralegals, so I had to wear multiple hats. I found myself answering phones, taking instructions, and dealing with paperwork, which included sending out template contracts to clients. I remember putting those contracts into envelopes and handling the logistics of order forms and postage for Arts Law. It was during this time that I realised I could be a lawyer who actively participated in the creative world and make a real difference. At the time, Arts Law didn't take in law graduates. However, I was determined to pursue this path. So, with almost 2 years of experience at a small law firm under my belt, I returned to Arts Law. I worked at Arts Law for a few years before I took up a role in the ABC in-house legal team. After 8 years at the ABC I moved to the IP and Media team at

MinterEllison working with partners John Fairbairn and Zeina Milicevic. But my passion for the arts and pro bono work eventually drew me back to Arts Law in December 2022. The realisation that I could merge my passion for the arts with my legal expertise has been a driving force throughout my career journey. At one point, I contemplated heading towards a career as a historian or sculptor, but my love for law and passion for social justice eventually led me in a different direction and I decided to study law at University. So, my career journey has been an interplay between the legal world and the creative arts — two areas I'm truly passionate about.

I find great joy in being able to use my legal expertise to help individuals and organisations in the creative field, and this journey has been a fulfilling one, shaped by a deep love for the arts, social justice and the law.

Diverse Careers Guide

Katherine Giles

During your university studies, you worked as a Part-time Administrative Assistant at Arts Law Centre before eventually becoming the Head of Legal and Operations. What inspired you to join the Arts Law Centre, and what motivated you to return to this organisation? Even when I was working at the ABC and MinterEllison, I continued my association with Arts Law by volunteering. Arts Law has a dedicated group of volunteer lawyers and law firms. There are currently around 350 lawyers who provide valuable legal advice to clients and review various documents, especially those related to copyright issues. I found this work to be immensely rewarding and enriching and I continued this volunteer pro bono work for about 15 years, until I returned to work at Arts Law in December 2022. The experience was not only professionally enriching but also personally fulfilling. It allowed me to stay connected with Arts Law's mission and values, and I had the privilege of working with individuals like Robyn Ayres, the CEO, who has always been a mentor and an inspiration to me. This continuous involvement with Arts Law made it clear that my heart was deeply invested in Arts Law. The experience I gained during my time at ABC and MinterEllison was invaluable. It allowed me to gain a broader perspective, develop essential

legal skills, and handle complex matters. During my time at MinterEllison, I had the opportunity to work on pro bono matters as well. All these experiences collectively led me back to Arts Law. It felt like the right time to return, spread my wings, and contribute to the organisation that had always held a special place in my heart. The dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the work at Arts Law, along with the opportunity to help the creative community, was incredibly enticing.

Arts Law is not just a workplace for me. It's also a place where my deep-rooted interests in the arts and the law converge. This is what inspired me to join Arts Law initially and what motivated me to return, and I couldn't be more pleased to be back in such an interesting and fulfilling role.

With your experience in an In-House role at ABC and work in the intellectual property and media law team at Minter Ellison, how has your background in entertainment and media law bolstered your ability to advise authors and publishers in protecting their work and rights? As a junior lawyer at Arts Law, I had the privilege of working with creators and creative organisations. My role at ABC, in particular, allowed me to gain invaluable insights into the entertainment and media industry. At the ABC, I worked in a team of lawyers that advised producers and program makers on pre-publication media law and IP issues, and gained hands-on experience in the commercial aspects of music and content distribution division. I got to see a project from the start to finish. Working in-house at the ABC equipped me with commercial experience, especially in dealing

with licensing agreements and publishing contracts, including those related to music distri-bution and publishing, and book and magazine publishing. Moving to private practice at Minter Ellison was another crucial step in my journey. I was fortunate to work in a great team and I had the opportunity to advise and work with a diverse range of clients. This experience allowed me to delve into different areas, including privacy law, and further diversified my skill set. Following this I did some IP work for a carbon farming start-up in December 2022 I returned to Arts Law. All of this experience has given me experience advising creators, including authors and publishers.

Diverse Careers Guide

Katherine Giles

In your role at Arts Law, what were some key achievements or initiatives you were involved in that you found particularly rewarding or meaningful? At Arts Law I have had the privilege of being involved in a variety of initiatives and achievements. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work at Arts Law is the opportunity to make a positive impact on artists and arts organisations through the advice, resources and workshops we provided. I particularly enjoy running professional development workshops where I can engage directly with creators which allows me to understand their unique needs and challenges. We recognise the significance of face-to-face interactions in this context, and I thoroughly enjoy the exchange of ideas and knowledge during these sessions.

These workshops not only empower artists but also foster a stronger sense of understanding and collaboration within the creative community. Additionally, my work at Arts Law often takes me to remote parts of Australia. In particular, I recently had the privilege of working with Aboriginal artists on an outreach trip in areas outside of Alice Springs — such as the artists at the Hermannsburg Potters Arts Centre. During these outreach trips, we advise on artists’ rights, copyright licensing, Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property and Wills. It is always a humbling experience.

Were there any obstacles or “setbacks” that ended up being positive in the long run? Balancing a demanding career with the responsibilities of being a parent to two small children, who are now teenagers, has never been a setback, but has sometimes been challenging. Balancing the demands of work with the needs of children is always a juggle. During this time, what greatly helped me navigate this period was having role models and mentors. It was reassuring to know that others had been through similar challenges and had come out on the other side. Now that my children are older, I can see how quickly time has

passed — from the days of daycare to primary school and high school. It has taught me the value of perspective and I hope that I can be supportive of younger parents facing the same juggle. While it may be challenging at times, it's only a short period of time. As the workplace has evolved, I think there's a growing awareness of the importance of supporting employees who are parents and investing in them, regardless of their family and caring responsibilities.

Based on your experiences, how would you advise students interested in pursuing a similar career path to get their foot in the door?

Discover Your Passion

Volunteer and Get Involved

The first step is to identify what truly interests and excites you. Find the area of law, be it entertainment, media, IP, or any other, that aligns with your passions. Knowing your true interests will be your guiding light as you embark on your career journey.

Once you've identified your passion, look for volunteer opportunities related to that field. Volunteering is a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience and learn more about the specific aspects of the career. Consider reaching out to organisations or events that align with your interests. For example, community legal centres often welcome volunteers, and junior lawyers

Diverse Careers Guide

Katherine Giles

can get involved in a variety of ways. It's not just about learning the ropes but also about building valuable connections with peers and organisations.

Join Relevant Associations and Organisations Joining associations and organisations that focus on your area of interest is also important. For example, if you are interested in media and IP there are associations such as the Copyright Society of Australia, IPSANZ and the Communications and Media Law Association (CAMLA). These organisations offer seminars and other events that not only provide learning

opportunities, but also offer the ability to connect with others who share your interests.

Seek Related Volunteer Opportunities Beyond volunteering in legal roles, consider seeking opportunities to volunteer at related institutions or events. For instance, if you're interested in arts and culture, volunteering at galleries, exhibitions, or cultural events can provide a unique perspective and help build connections. These experiences can also stand out on your CV and show that you are genuinely passionate about the field.

Pretend you're about to complete your degree and about to embark on your career. What advice would you give yourself, and students at that stage currently? Believe in your abilities and remember that your career is a lifelong journey, full of opportunities to explore your passions and interests. Embrace change, be open to new experiences, and commit to continuous learning as the professional world evolves. Cultivate strong relationships and stay resilient, learning from setbacks and persevering. Seek work that aligns with your values, aim to make a positive impact, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Remember that your career is a journey, so savour the process, celebrate your successes, and move forward with enthusiasm.

Why in house or a community legal centre over say private practice or government? I have worked in an in-house role, in private practice and in a community legal centre. All of these roles have been fantastic. In terms of where I am working now, Arts Law is unique because it is a specialist community legal centre . While not exactly like a law firm, it still involves the day-to-day work of advising clients, although there is the excitement of advising creators and creative organisations and hearing about all the fantastic projects they are working on.

"Remember that your career is a journey, so savour the process, celebrate your successes, and move forward with enthusiasm."

Diverse Careers Guide

Sharmila Jayasinghe

A Conversation With

Sharmila Jayasinghe

Sharmila Jayasinghe is a Sri Lankan-born Australian Author and the Principal Owner of Reads Media Boutique Publishing House. From a young age, Sharmila has harboured a deepseated passion for writing, which was further ignited during her time in law school. Her books consistently explore the unseen struggles of migrants and serve as a voice for her Sri Lankan community. Sharmila embodies the concept of being both an individual and a representative of many, and this collective identity profoundly influences her writing. Her work reflects the rich tapestry of her cultural hybridity.

Throughout her diverse career, which includes roles as a Staff Reporter, Journalist, and contributions to various NGOs, there is a common thread: her unwavering commitment to advocating for social justice issues. This passion for social justice has now become a driving force behind her writing, allowing her to shed light on important causes and amplify the voices of those who need to be heard.

Diverse Careers Guide

Sharmila Jayasinghe

Can you share the journey of your career so far? My career journey has been quite vibrant. When I reflect on it, I can see that I've dipped my toes into various fields, trying to figure out what I truly want to do with my life. It's been like weaving a colourful tapestry, exploring multiple professions. Though my education journey after school started with a law degree, my very first job was as an English tutor, marking the beginning of my career path. I later transitioned into my first proper job at a bank, after which I worked as a reporter for an English newspaper. This experience made me become a freelance journalist in both Australia and Sri Lanka. I even tried my hand at being an air hostess for Air Lanka, a national carrier. During the height of the HIV epidemic, I joined an NGO as the national coordinator for a HIV/AIDS program, providing care for patients and more.

Eventually, after migrating to Australia, I decided to focus on writing. I even won the Deakin University award for my novella ‘Brown Isn't My Colour’. One of my short stories also received the Verandah Literary Magazine Fiction Prize in 2022. Currently, I'm shortlisted for the USYD Union’s Creative Award and the 2023 Scarlet Stiletto Award for the best crime story written by an Australian female author. I obtained my Masters in Creative Writing and Literature at Deakin and went on to pursue a Ph.D. from Sydney University. Additionally, I've launched Reads Media Boutique Publishing House, a platform aimed at helping first-time authors get their work out there.

Law school often encourages a traditional path, emphasising Practical Legal Training (PLT) and securing a law graduate position. How did you explore alternative career options while still utilising your law degree, considering this typical trajectory in the legal industry? It's true that law school often steers students toward a traditional path, which involves completing Practical Legal Training and securing a law graduate position. However, for me, studying law opened my eyes to numerous other possibilities. Specifically, the investigative skills I honed, coupled with my love for writing, drew me towards journalism and eventually authorship. I view writing as a form of research, even in fiction. The rigorous training I received during my law degree, teaching me to investigate and draw conclusions, has been instrumental in my journalism and fiction writing careers. I firmly believe that what you learn, whether through formal education or life experiences, shapes your perceptions and worldviews. My law degree altered my perspective, making me more attuned to issues of injustice.

This led to my active involvement in social and community services, particularly in the fight against domestic violence and raising awareness about mental health. My law degree played a crucial role in shaping my ability to be a voice in my Sri Lankan community, and I'm deeply appreciative of that.

"My law degree played a crucial role in shaping my ability to be a voice in my Sri Lankan community, and I'm deeply appreciative of that."

Diverse Careers Guide

Sharmila Jayasinghe

Have you encountered any challenges or setbacks that, in hindsight, had a positive impact? This may relate to initially earning a law degree but choosing not to pursue a legal career.

When I reflect on the various challenges and setbacks I've faced throughout my journey, it becomes apparent that many of these experiences, particularly those related to my decision to enter law school, have had a remarkably positive impact on my life. My journey into the world of law started during a tumultuous time in Sri Lanka. As I was completing my Advanced levels examinations, the country was grappling with political unrest, which had far-reaching consequences, including the closure of higher education institutions and a substantial backlog in the education system. In the face of these challenges, I made a pivotal decision — to sit for the law entrance exam. I didn't want to spend any more time waiting for the situation to stabilise and for universities to reopen. This unconventional choice, to pursue law during such turbulent times, would ultimately set the course for my career as both a journalist and a writer. This transition marked an exhilarating chapter in my life. Writing had always been a passion of mine, a love I'd nurtured since childhood. Joining the world of journalism was a significant turning point, and I have never looked back with regret. What's fascinating to me is that everything I learned during my law degree, from analytical thinking to research

skills, has played a pivotal role in shaping the person I am today. Importantly, it didn't box me into one specific career path, providing me with a breadth of skills and knowledge that I could apply to various fields. Furthermore, this journey has taken me around the world, exposing me to diverse cultures, landscapes, and people. These travel experiences have become an integral part of my writing, infusing my work with a unique global perspective. I draw inspiration from the places I've visited, the people I've met, and the stories I've encountered along the way. As I look ahead, I am thrilled about the prospects that lie on the horizon. The passion for writing, which has been a constant thread throughout my life, still burns brightly within me. The prospect of continuing to do what I love for the rest of my life fills me with excitement and a deep sense of purpose. It's a reminder that even in the face of challenges and unexpected detours, our journey can lead us to places we never imagined, enriching our lives in ways we couldn't have foreseen.

"The prospect of continuing to do what I love for the rest of my life fills me with excitement and a deep sense of purpose. It's a reminder that even in the face of challenges and unexpected detours, our journey can lead us to places we never imagined, enriching our lives in ways we couldn't have foreseen."

Diverse Careers Guide

Sharmila Jayasinghe

Despite obtaining your law degree in Sri Lanka, you've ventured into various fields such as being a Staff Reporter, Contributing Writer, a Media Marketing Consultant, and now serving as the Principal Owner of Reads Media Boutique Publishing House, along with being an Author. Could you explain how your law degree has equipped you with the skills and knowledge to navigate this diverse career journey? From my perspective, I believe that my journey into the world of books brought me to my law degree and, in turn, my exploration of the realm of Law brought me back to the literary world. There's an intricate relationship between these two seemingly different areas of expertise. As a child, I had a deep fascination with crime and mystery novels. This interest was nurtured by my late father-in-law, who happened to be a forensic pathologist. He not only solved cases but also documented them in books. Our conversations were filled with intriguing discussions about the cases he had been a part of. While in law college, I found myself gravitating towards criminal law as my favourite subject. The intricacies of criminal law appealed to my inquisitive nature and honed my analytical skills, two attributes that have proven invaluable throughout my career. This appreciation for the nuances of criminal law

would later become a cornerstone of my writing. It all came together when I wrote my first book, "Butterfly Kisses." This novel delved into the world of criminal mysteries, bringing together my love for storytelling and my fascination with investigative processes. The first ‘Mystery’ short story I wrote titled “Secrets Women Keep”, to my surprise and delight, was shortlisted for the prestigious Scarlet Stiletto Award. This accolade reinforced the idea that my legal education was not a departure from my writing aspirations but rather an integral part of my journey. The investigative aspect of my legal education seamlessly translated into my role as a journalist. Whether it's examining cases, researching topics, or seeking the truth, the skills I gained from law school have proved indispensable in my journalistic pursuits.

Your current work is centred around the literary field as an author, with books such as 'Butterfly Kisses,' 'The Untold Story of My Lover,' and 'Brown Isn't My Colour.' What motivated you to embark on this path? The inspiration behind my journey as an author can be traced back to several significant influences and a deep passion for storytelling. My parents were my first and most profound sources of inspiration. Both of them are writers, and growing up in our household was akin to living in a literary haven. For Christmas, instead of toys, we received books. We had our own library at home, and my parents always encouraged my writing endeavours. Although they harboured dreams of me becoming a doctor or lawyer, they never stifled my creative aspirations. However, it was my husband who played a pivotal role in pushing me towards my true calling. After getting married, I took the leap and wrote my first novel. That was a defining moment in my life.

From that point on, I haven't stopped writing, and it became clear that this was my true passion. My work as an author centres on a particular theme that's close to my heart — migrant stories. The majority of my literary creations revolve around the experiences of immigrants. These stories aim to shed light on the struggles and triumphs of those who leave their homeland in search of a better life. Some narratives are uplifting, while others delve into the challenges and hardships migrants face. It's a way for me to give a voice to the community and bring their stories to the mainstream. As a writer with a diverse cultural background, I consider myself a "hybrid writer." I stand at the crossroads of two cultures, and my writing

Diverse Careers Guide

Sharmila Jayasinghe

reflects the rich interplay between them. It's essential for me to share the stories of South Asian communities, highlighting their unique experiences and challenges. What I bring to the literary world is a perspective that bridges cultures, offering a fresh lens through which to view these narratives. In my writing journey, I've been influenced by literary giants who have gone before me. Authors like Yasmin Goonaratne, Michelle de

Kretser, Salman Rushdie, Arundhati Roy, Shehan Karunatilaka have all made indelible marks in the realm of South Asian literature. Their ability to bring culture into focus and explore the nuances of South Asian communities has inspired me. While I draw from these remarkable authors, what I bring to the literary world are my own unique stories, each a reflection of my background, experiences, and the communities I represent.

Considering your unique career experiences, what advice would you offer to students who are interested in pursuing a similar career path and wish to enter this industry?

Follow Your Passion

Season Your Mind

The first and most important piece of advice I can offer is to do something you love. When you wake up in the morning and have to go to work, make sure it's a pursuit that genuinely excites you. In my case, I have a deep passion for writing, and that passion has been my guiding light. Your career should reflect your interests and passions.

Despite facing rejections, don't be discouraged. Use these experiences to season your mind. The journey of a writer or journalist involves continual growth and development. The more you write and get your work out there, the better you become at your craft.

Don't Let Your Background Define You Your academic background doesn't have to limit your career choices. I, had a Law education, but I didn't let it restrict me to a legal career. You don't have to adhere to a strict, predefined career path based solely on your academic background.

Leverage Your Unique Skills If you have a background in a field like law, consider how your unique skills can benefit your writing and journalism. These skills, such as analytical thinking, research abilities, and the ability to see multiple perspectives, can be invaluable in investigative journalism and storytelling. They're not mutually exclusive; they can complement each other.

Learn to Accept Rejections

Give a Voice to the Voiceless

Rejections are a natural part of any creative or journalistic field. For journalism, especially, you might send out numerous story pitches, and only a few will get accepted. It's important to view rejections as opportunities for growth and learning. Every rejection is a chance to improve your craft and refine your skills.

Whether you choose to be a lawyer, a writer, a journalist, or all of the above, understand that your skills can be used to give a voice to the voiceless. As a lawyer, you can advocate for justice in a courtroom, and as a writer or journalist, you can amplify the stories of those whose voices might not otherwise be heard. This is a powerful way to make a difference in your community and beyond.

Diverse Careers Guide

Jack Crittenden

A Conversation With

Jack Crittenden

Jack Crittenden is a seasoned policy and legal professional with diverse expertise spanning various sectors, including environmental law and policy, law enforcement and criminal justice, employment law and the design and implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme. Jack began his academic journey as an Anthropology student at the University of Sydney, where he completed his Honours Degree, before going on to complete a Master of International Environmental Law at Macquarie University. Following a brief stint at the University of Technology, Jack returned to Macquarie University to complete his Juris Doctor part-time. Jack was admitted as a lawyer in the Supreme Court of

Queensland in 2021. Jack's extensive background not only encompasses legal and policy work but also includes his role as an Industry Fellow with the Queensland University of Technology, where he is a School for Justice Board Member, casual academic with Macquarie Law School and volunteer employment and human rights lawyer with Caxton Legal Centre.

Diverse Careers Guide

Jack Crittenden

Can you tell us about your career journey so far?

I started my academic journey with a degree in anthropology at the University of Sydney, completing my Honours thesis on ordinary people’s understanding of climate change and their role in protecting the environment. This work was inspired by my experience of Professor Laura Nader’s teaching while on academic exchange at the University of California, Berkeley. My initial desire on graduation was to pursue a PhD by studying traditional cultures overseas. However, I discovered that the available degree programs and job opportunities in this field were limited. As a result, I decided to enrol in a Master’s program in Environmental Law and Policy at Macquarie University. Initially, I was hesitant to take this path, as I had never considered law as an option. Nevertheless, after attending my first lecture, I knew it was the right choice for me. I enjoyed the challenge of applying my knowledge to legal problem-solving and the intellectual rigour of the law. During my Master's program, there was an opportunity to participate in the predecessor of the PACE program. Macquarie University was ahead of the curve when it came to providing graduates with practical experience as part of their law degree. I would recommend PACE to all prospective graduates — it broadened my perspective and opened up new possibilities for me. I worked as a part-time policy intern for Dr Rob Stokes MP, in his former role as Parliamentary Secretary for Renewable Energy. Dr Stokes and his team were great mentors to me, and their commitment to public service, as Macquarie University Alumni, had a big impact on my career journey. Upon completing my Master’s, I secured a graduate policy officer position with the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet. The public service was a great spot to land for me, as it supported me to continue my legal studies part

time, while providing a challenging and rewarding career — again, I would recommend it to prospective grads. My role as a Graduate Policy Officer was very rewarding as I was able to leverage my legal studies in the work I was doing, first in environmental policy and then in criminal justice policy. This work ocurred against the backdrop of lockdown laws, bail reform, the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse and high-profile criminal cases. Subsequently, I joined a multidisciplinary taskforce charged with designing and implementing the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in NSW. Helping to deliver a complex, generational reform was one of the most challenging and rewarding things I have ever done. I really cut my teeth as a policy officer in this role, building stakeholder engagement, project management and strategic advice skills which have served as a solid foundation for the rest of my career. Following NSW’s transition to the NDIS, I took an opportunity with the NSW Office for Police, in their resourcing and reform branch. In this role, I provided financial and administrative policy advice to support the NSW Police Force’s operations, including budget initiatives, workforce matters and an organisational restructure. This last project gave me an opportunity to engage in legal work that went beyond traditional lawyering, including drafting policy advice, conducting legislative review and working closely with the Parliamentary Counsel’s Office to draft legislation. As part of this role, I was seconded to the Office for the Minister for Police, where I worked as a senior liaison officer between the political staff and the NSW Police Force to support the passage of the legislation I had helped draft through the Parliament and Executive Council. This experience allowed

Diverse Careers Guide

Jack Crittenden

me to develop a deep understanding of the connection between law, policy and politics. As the 2019 election approached, I recognised the need for a change and sought new opportunities. This coincided with the finalisation of my law degree, making it the right time to explore options to move jobs and cities. Applying for a range of jobs across Australia, I took the first one offered, with Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) in Brisbane, although I had never even visited before. In this role, I led a project team to identify prisoners with disability and support them to access the NDIS on release, with a view to reducing recidivism. This work had a significant impact for some of the most complex people in society and was incredibly rewarding. As my career in Queensland progressed, I took an opportunity to lead a small team to design and implement medium-term strategic change projects for QCS. This was the best policy job I have ever had, as I had the freedom to tackle some of the more complex and interesting

challenges facing the criminal justice system in Queensland, and work with my team to come up with a plan for addressing them. Our team has delivered a range of strategies on high priority issues, including women in contact with the criminal justice system, alcohol and other drugs, mental ill-health and anti-corruption. Unlike most policy work, these documents are all publicly available here. During this time, I also led a planning team in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and spent a year on secondment working as a lawyer as part of the QCS legal team, advising on a range of personal injury and employment law matters. I returned to my policy role after 12 months as I wanted to pursue legal options with more face to face client interaction. This secondment was a blessing in disguise, however, as it led to a role as a volunteer employment and human rights solicitor with Caxton Legal Centre, a passion I continue to pursue while progressing my policy career.

Try not too worry too much about it — although the competition can be tough, you will find the path you were meant to be on.

If my career can serve as a lesson to anyone, it's that you don't have to follow the traditional path. I started in policy, had a stint in in-house counsel, and ended up practising as a volunteer solicitor. There are multiple avenues to pursue this profession. If you don't immediately land a graduate position, don't fret. There are alternative paths to become a lawyer, and you can always find a way to carve your niche in the legal field, or a related discipline.

Diverse Careers Guide

Jack Crittenden

What challenges or obstacles did you encounter on your path to your current position, and could you highlight one specific challenge you faced? When I described my career journey earlier, with the benefit of hindsight, I may have given the impression that there was a plan that I followed to get where I am today. The truth is, even the best laid career plans (and I have had a few!) don’t survive contact with reality. Careers don’t follow a linear path - opportunities present themselves and then lead to places you can’t predict. All you can do in the moment is make the best decision with the information you have available to you at the time. I found my time working as a government lawyer very challenging. I spent much of this time working with investigators to identify employee misconduct and then manage the legal process of their discipline and, in some cases, dismissal. I found this difficult as I did not get to engage in much client contact (my client was the State of Queensland). While I could see a raft of policy changes that needed to be made, I had to confine myself to the

legal issues at hand, which was often frustrating. However, as government solicitor, having undertaken work most junior lawyers in the private sector can only dream of (briefing counsel, representing clients in settlement, mediation and conciliation conferences, preparing advice on a variety of issues), I was successful in securing a volunteer position in a Community Legal Centre. In hindsight, I don’t think I was ready to be a law student when I graduated high-school. I believe it was essential for me to explore other avenues before settling on the law. My life experience up to that point helped me hit the ground running when interviewing clients and providing advice on a range of employment and human rights matters with Caxton Legal Centre. The soft skills I had developed throughout my career proved critical to my success.

With your extensive policy experience, including roles in the Department of Corrective Services in Queensland and the NSW Office for Police, could you explain how your law degree equipped you with the skills and knowledge to navigate this diverse career journey? A law degree equips you with essential skills that go beyond legal knowledge. Legal research is a skill that truly shines when you're in a policy or legal role. When faced with a policy problem, being able to quickly and accurately check the relevant legislation and regulations can set you apart from other professionals. Having familiarity with legal aspects and being able to identify key issues can greatly enhance your effectiveness in any role. The ability to articulate your reasoning persuasively is also essential, as many policy discussions involve collaborative decision-making. Law teaches you how to think critically, analyse

information, interpret data, and write in a purposeful manner. However, the writing I do now is usually not as extensive as the problem questions and essays in law school. I've come to realise that being able to quickly interpret information, distil key insights and present them succinctly is critical to providing advice in a range of contexts. When I worked in the Minister's office, I quickly began to understand the ultimate audience of much of my written advice. Ministers often only have minutes to spare to read and understand the advice prepared for them, and then make a decision. In this highly time-sensitive environment, you may

Diverse Careers Guide

Jack Crittenden

be accustomed to writing extensive legal advice, but it's crucial to unlearn this habit. Getting the engagement of senior stakeholders often means condensing your advice to 1-2 pages, which can be a challenging adjustment, especially if you're used to writing longer documents. As a former history professor of mine once said — you must be succinct and pertinent! Emotional intelligence is another crucial skill that I've come to appreciate in my career. The client interviewing experiences have been

particularly valuable in this regard. Anything that enhances your ability to conduct client interviews, such as mooting and broadening your life experience, like engaging with diverse communities, is essential. As a volunteer with Caxton Legal Centre, I have had an opportunity to engage with clients with a range of cultural and life backgrounds, and mentor junior solicitors to build their confidence in client interviewing. This has been very rewarding, and something I hope to pursue in future.

You've built a career as a versatile policy professional with experience in law enforcement, the National Disability Insurance Scheme, disability inclusion, criminal justice, corrective services, and environment and planning. How has your law degree contributed to your ability to pursue this multifaceted vision? Absolutely, the skills gained through a law degree, such as critical thinking, effective writing, selfadvocacy, and emotional intelligence, are versatile and can be applied to a wide range of fields. They serve as a strong foundation that can benefit you in any profession you choose. It's worth noting that there are many people who don't work as lawyers but still engage in fascinating and meaningful work that doesn't necessarily involve providing legal advice. A legal education opens up diverse career paths, and it doesn't limit you to traditional legal roles.

Ultimately, don't allow others' expectations or conventional career paths to limit your imagination. There are countless opportunities to do something different and make a significant impact. Take inspiration from those who have pursued unique and unconventional career paths, like Joshua Browder, who developed one of the world’s first legal AI chatbots, which has helped hundreds of thousands of people around the world assert their consumer rights. It's perfectly fine if you don't want to be a lawyer right away; you will discover your niche and find your own path in due time.

"Ultimately, don't allow others' expectations or conventional career paths to limit your imagination. There are countless opportunities to do something different and make a significant impact."

Diverse Careers Guide

Jack Crittenden

Given your unique career experiences, what advice would you give to students interested in a similar career path and looking to enter this industry? One of the best decisions I made for my career was working as an unpaid intern for six months. It's an experience I've tried to emphasise as a leader in my organisation. There are aspects of working in a large office or centre that a law degree doesn't teach you, and gaining practical experience can be incredibly valuable. I've seen friends excel at university and secure positions at top-tier law firms, but struggle when they enter the corporate world. The structured environment in academia doesn't always align with the expectations and dynamics of the professional world. Working in an organisation before or during your studies can be very beneficial, and there are plenty of opportunities in the non-profit and community legal sectors. I highly recommend starting there to gain insights into your field of interest and develop emotional intelligence and life experience.

One piece of advice I would like to offer is not to get disheartened during your career journey. I've been on career breaks myself, and I know how tough it can be to put in the work to apply for roles and not see the success you hope for

straight away. It's important to remember that jobs are somewhat like buses — there's always another one coming along. You might not end up exactly where you planned, and sometimes things work out, while other times they don't. It's crucial not to compare your progress to others or worry about the speed of your career. It's not a race, and everyone's journey is unique. From my own career, I've learned that the biggest pressure often comes from yourself. Sometimes, planning too much can lead to unnecessary stress, and it's okay if your career takes unexpected turns.

Overall, I would say try not to be too hard on yourself and cultivate an attitude of curiosity and see where opportunities take you. Even though my career hasn’t followed a traditional path, I have no regrets. If you pursue a similar career journey, don’t worry — organisations and people will recognise your breadth of skills, knowledge and experience and you will get your chance to excel and make an impact — and those are the organisations and people you will want to work for!

Diverse Careers Guide

Calli Tsipidis

A Conversation With

Calli Tsipidis

Calli Tsipidis currently holds the position of Legal Counsel at FOX SPORTS Australia, with her unwavering passion for sports tracing back to her early years. Throughout her high school tenure, she actively engaged in multiple sports and eventually transitioned into a role as a Sports Coach after completing high school. While pursuing her legal career at university, Calli embarked on an internship with the Football Federation Australia, enriching her professional journey. She later became a part

of the Legal Counsel team at Fox Sports Australia and Foxtel Group. a conversation with Calli, she passionately advocates for authenticity and genuineness when forging one's own path and being their own strongest advocate, especially within the legal field.

Diverse Careers Guide

Calli Tsipidis

Could you please share your career journey with us so far? Part way through my university studies, I joined a mid-tier firm in the field of commercial, litigation and property law. My work primarily involved property and light commercial legal matters, and it allowed me to get a firsthand experience of what it was like to work in private practice. During this time, I also had the opportunity to work on small claims cases, which was a valuable learning experience. This was great exposure, and importantly I had the privilege of being mentored by experienced professionals. While I've always been a sports enthusiast, I didn't initially see how I could combine my passion for sports with my legal career. It was during my time at university that I first came across the field of sports law. It was offered in Semester 3 at Macquarie University and luckily there was enough interest to have this class rolling! This class was unique in the sense where the convenor would bring in guests who specialised in sports law to speak about their career paths and day-to-day practice, and that experience opened my eyes to the possibilities of combining my legal skills with my love for sports. I subsequently applied for intern roles at every sports body I could! Whilst completing my PLT, and after graduating from law school, I secured an internship with Football Federation Australia, which included handling player transfers, regulatory work, and

various aspects of sports administrative legal work. It was an exciting journey that allowed me to explore a different side of the legal profession. My internship with the football federation came to an end after 6 months, as the organisation had a small legal team, and there were no further opportunities available. I was very grateful for the experience. This prompted me to consider working inhouse. As luck would have it, I came across a junior legal counsel position at FOX SPORTS Australia only a few months after finishing up at Football Federation Australia. I decided to apply, and when I received the job offer, I was over the moon.

Now, I find myself in my current position at Foxtel Group, working across the FOX SPORTS Australia and Kayo Sports brands, and I've never looked back. Everything fell into place, and I'm very grateful for the opportunities that have come my way.

Diverse Careers Guide

Calli Tsipidis

Throughout my research, it's evident that you've been deeply immersed in the world of sports, having served as a Sports Coach, worked as a Legal Intern at Football Federation Australia, and currently holding the position of Legal Counsel at FOX SPORTS Australia. How did you discover the connection between your passion for sports and your pursuit of a legal career? My journey into the intersection of sports and law was an exciting and somewhat serendipitous one. Growing up, I had always been a passionate sports fan, and I deeply appreciated the sense of community and togetherness that sports brought. There's something about watching sports that fosters a unique sense of unity and shared enthusiasm among fans. My personal connection to sports goes way back to my childhood. In particular, in 2002, my dad bought us a season membership to watch the mighty South Sydney Rabbitohs return to the NRL. His passion for the sport was infectious, and I vividly remember donning the cardinal and myrtle week in, week out, and chanting all of the songs, even during a particularly challenging season for the Rabbitohs. This early exposure to sports left a lasting impression on me. During high school, I was fortunate to have educators who encouraged student participation in sports. I enthusiastically played water polo, soccer, netball, and touch footy, further cementing my love for sports. After high school, I took on a role as a coach, and I absolutely loved it. Coaching allowed me to continue engaging with sports and share my passion and knowledge with others. Whilst studying and working at the commercial law firm, I soon realised that the more ‘traditional’ kind of legal work and legal working environment wasn't particularly inspiring when it wasn't connected to a subject matter I was passionate about. It was during this time that I became aware of the concept of sports law, but I didn't fully understand the possibilities it held. My breakthrough came when I enrolled in a sports law elective subject at Macquarie Uni. Special guest lecturers opened my eyes to the multifaceted nature of sports law. I discovered that there were lawyers who represented athletes,

handled anti-doping cases, and worked with sports tribunals. I had no idea that "in-house" positions existed within the realm of sports law, or at all! It was a revelation that sports law could be a bridge between my passion for sports and my legal career. One of the special guests from this elective was, at the time, the Head of Legal at Football Federation Australia, so it was wonderful to come full circle when I joined their team a few years later. The encouragement and insights during this elective motivated me to explore this field further. It was also during this time that I met and got to know the wonderful Tim Fuller who was our elective convenor. Tim was a professional athlete, turned sports lawyer. His passion and encouragement further inspired me, and I am grateful for his mentorship and support to this date.

In hindsight, I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to work in-house within the sports industry. Sports law has opened doors I never knew existed, and I believe it's a field where passion, proactivity, and initiative can make a significant difference. To any students considering a career in sports law, I would encourage them to pursue it wholeheartedly. My experience has shown me that taking the initiative and reaching out to those in the field can be incredibly rewarding. It's a path that has not only allowed me to combine my love for sports with my legal career but has also shaped my professional journey in ways I couldn't have imagined.

Diverse Careers Guide

Calli Tsipidis

Have you faced any notable challenges or setbacks that, in retrospect, you believe had a positive influence on your professional development? One significant challenge was my initial lack of awareness about the existence of in-house and sports law career paths. The concept simply wasn't on my radar, and I didn't know that such opportunities were available. Once I discovered the potential in this field, it became a persistent idea in my mind. Another challenge I faced was the realisation of how limited the opportunities were in this field, particularly for junior practitioners in sports law. It became apparent as I started applying for internships and roles that there were very few positions available, and often those available were for more senior and experienced lawyers. With that in mind, I encountered some setbacks along the way, and was knocked back from many opportunities I applied for. In fact, I applied for positions for a whole year before receiving any positive responses. One of the most valuable challenges I overcame, however, was the realisation that my applications weren't standing out. This encouraged me to refine my cover letter and ensure that my authenticity and passion for sports law were evident — I wanted this to jump off the page to whomever read it. It made a significant difference as organisations like the Football Federation Australia and Fox Sports could see my genuine enthusiasm for the field and mentioned this during the hiring process.

This experience taught me that achieving success in this field would take time and persistence. Moreover, as I had initially worked exclusively in property law, I was conscious of the challenge of pivoting into sports law. I wanted to be wellrounded and versatile so that I could work in different areas of law. Making this transition and ensuring I was getting broader legal experience, not just specialised experience, was something I needed to actively seek in my workplace — I pursued this, and was grateful for the support from my leaders at the time. Overall, this experience has taught me to be my best professional self, and has helped me flourish in the industry. After identifying my desired outcomes, I needed to be bold and brave in pursuing them and am very glad that I did! I learned that being genuine and authentic in professional dealings is one of the most valuable qualities one can possess. It makes people want to have you on their team. I consider myself fortunate because the timing of my career progression was fantastic, and I'm proud of the journey I've taken. These challenges and setbacks have contributed to the versatility of my skills and have ultimately strengthened my professional development in the dynamic field of sports law.

Diverse Careers Guide

Calli Tsipidis

Being a passionate sports enthusiast, how would you describe the distinctions between the practice of law and your role as a lawyer within the sports industry? As a passionate sports enthusiast, the distinctions between practising law and my role as a lawyer within the sports industry are quite notable. Being a sports fan is all about passion and the thrill of the game. It's about channelling that passion into practical advice for various entities, including teams, companies, clients, and players. I often draw an analogy between being a sports fan and my role as a lawyer in the sports industry. Just as fans are dedicated to the success of their favourite teams, I'm equally dedicated to the success of the businesses and individuals I represent. However, practising as a sports lawyer goes beyond providing mere legal advice. One of the key distinctions is that I don't just give legal counsel; I also overlay commercial advice. It's crucial to recognise the ultimate goals of the projects I'm involved in. Whether it's a marketing campaign or a contractual negotiation, understanding the overarching business objectives is essential. This means that I'm not limited to offering "black letter" legal advice; I also provide practical, businessfocused counsel. I assess the situation, identify potential issues, and suggest alternative strategies to achieve the desired outcome. A significant part of my role involves immersing myself in the business and understanding its purpose. I need to know what the business is looking for and what the project I am working on aims to achieve. This enables me to provide advice that aligns with the company's goals, rather than offering purely legal guidance. In many cases, I wear different hats depending on the situation and the needs of the project. This versatility is a fundamental aspect of my role as a sports lawyer. Unlike lawyers in private practice who may specialise in a specific area of law, my role covers a wide range of legal and commercial aspects. I work as a generalist, not as a specialist. I deal with intellectual property law, competition and consumer law, employment law, tax, contract law,

and more. The diversity of my responsibilities is a direct result of the dynamic nature of the sports and media industry within which I work. For instance, I might handle legal matters related to marketing, partnerships, and production, each with its own unique set of legal questions and challenges. For example, quite recently, I have been working on immigration / visa matters for international productions. The relationships I maintain with clients in the sports industry are distinct as well. These clients are often members of the business, such as the marketing, content or production teams. Building and maintaining these relationships is critical, as they often extend beyond the professional realm. It's essential to balance my role as their in-house legal advisor with the camaraderie and collaboration that naturally occurs in a workplace. I have to deliver the best legal advice while ensuring that our relationships remain respectful and productive. Working in the media and sports industry adds another layer of complexity. Sports events happen live, and issues can arise unexpectedly. This demands flexibility and the ability to work on urgent matters, often in accordance with different schedules. Sometimes, we have important events in the middle of the night, and it becomes a top priority to address any legal issues promptly. Attention to detail is paramount to ensure that nothing critical is overlooked, even when managing numerous projects simultaneously. The practice of law in the sports industry is a unique blend of legal expertise, commercial acumen, relationship management, and adaptability. It's a role that demands a deep passion for sports and a commitment to helping the business achieve its goals while navigating the complex legal landscape of the sports world. The lessons learned in this dynamic field, such as attention to detail, adaptability, and versatility, can also translate effectively to other roles and industries.

Diverse Careers Guide

Calli Tsipidis

What is it that energises you about your daily work at Fox Sports?

What energises me about my daily work at Fox Sports is the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the role. I don't just work in sports; I work within the broader Foxtel Group, which includes Fox Sports, Kayo Sports, and BINGE. This means that I get to engage with a variety of projects and aspects of the business, which can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding. My responsibilities span across different segments of the business, be it sports content and production, to tax obligations, to partnerships for our customer loyalty programme, to a BINGE event promoting Real Housewives of Sydney! This diversity allows me to immerse myself in various facets of the business, while ensuring that our legal and regulatory obligations remain at the forefront of commercial practices. What truly excites me is advising on the relationships and contracts within the business. It's not just about making deals; it's about managing and nurturing those relationships over time. Contracts often span many years, and as the

business evolves, so do the ideas and projects. I have the privilege of being a part of both the creation and management of these relationships. One of the things I find particularly invigorating is that every day is unique. While I may have longterm projects, there are always side projects that pop up, keeping me on my toes. The sports element adds another layer of seasonality and excitement. It's a fast-paced industry, and we're not just in the moment; our teams are always thinking ahead to something different. I also love the sense of connection I have with the content. I can come home and watch something on TV that I was directly involved in, knowing that my work played a part in bringing it to the audience. It's incredibly satisfying to hear people talking about the content and to see the growth and embrace of initiatives like women's sports. Even if I didn't directly work on a project, championing it and seeing its success is truly rewarding. What further adds to my enthusiasm is the fact that I work with a team of people who share the same values and passion for delivering the best sports content. This sense of togetherness at work and the camaraderie is something that I genuinely cherish.

Diverse Careers Guide

Calli Tsipidis

Considering your unique career experiences, what advice would you offer to students who aspire to follow a similar career path and seek entry into the sports industry?

Be Proactive Don't wait for opportunities to fall into your lap. If there's a specific place or organisation where you aspire to work, take the initiative and put in an application. Express your passion and genuine interest in your application. Whether it's in sports or other areas, being proactive can make a significant difference in opening doors.

Seek Mentorship Don't be afraid to reach out to professionals in the field you're interested in. If you admire someone's work or career path, connect with them and express your interest. Offer to have a coffee or a conversation to learn more about their roles and experiences. The worst they can say is no, but more often than not, professionals are willing to share their insights and offer guidance.

Join Relevant Associations There are various associations and societies related to different fields within the legal profession and the sports industry. Joining these organisations can help you network and make connections. For example, in sports law, organisations like ANZLSA offer valuable resources, events, and networking opportunities.

Don't Be Afraid to Put Yourself Out There Don't hesitate to share your passion and genuine interest in the sports industry. It's important to ensure that your enthusiasm comes across in your interactions and applications. Even if you're not successful in every endeavour, you'll never regret trying. Sometimes, all it takes is one successful opportunity to launch your career.

Explore a Variety of Interests While studying at university, take advantage of the diverse range of courses and experiences available. Don't feel like you have to pigeonhole yourself into one specific path. You can explore various fields, connect with people, and discover your true interests. This flexibility will give you more choices and opportunities in the long run.

Be Open to Pivoting The path to a successful career can involve pivoting and making changes along the way. Just because you initially pursue one path doesn't mean you're locked into it forever. Many professionals in niche areas have the flexibility to pivot and explore different aspects of their field.

Authenticity Matters Be true to yourself and let your genuine passion shine through. It's something that people notice and appreciate. Authenticity can make a significant difference in how you're perceived and the opportunities that come your way.

I owe many of my own opportunities to pursuing these principles, and I encourage you to apply them to your own journey. The sports industry is full of possibilities, and your proactive approach, networking, and authenticity can be key factors in your success.

2023 Thank you for reading the 2023 Diverse Careers Guide.

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