Sharing stories in the hope of inspiring our industry to change for the better. MFA Director, People Linda Wong announces a new DE&I initiative.
The MFA’s Media For All DE&I strategy aims to create a media agency industry where everyone can thrive, feel heard, supported and safe to do their best work.
In support of this goal, we’ve launched a new editorial series, Changing Perspectives, to be published regularly in industry publication AdNews. Featuring a different member of the MFA community who will share their lived experience in the hope of inspiring us all to change for the better.
These article’s will focus on generating awareness around six important areas of diversity – LGBTQI+, ageism, disability, First Nations People, cultural diversity and gender equity – with the ultimate goal of creating an industry where people feel safe to be themselves.
After all, our vision is Media For All.
Here is a sample from two of the articles we’ve shared so far:
Not all names roll off the tongue, but all names are important, by Elena Giannini, Avenue C
The impact on people of having their name pronounced correctly is really powerful. It makes us feel like we belong, like we are part of the community rather than outsiders. And it shows that the person pronouncing the name correctly, genuinely cares about inclusion.
Our industry represents all aspects of society, and we should be humbled by that role – it is our job to understand. Read the full article here
Be an ally 365 days a year, by Philippa Moig, OMD
Become an ally 365 days a year. Do it with heart, make it count, get into community, have a yarn, and build relationships. If you’re not sure how, get in touch!
Think about what allyship means for you, and go beyond the key dates marked in the calendar.
Leaning in, getting curious, and building friendships with mob has changed my life for the better, and it has the power to change yours. Read the full article here
Get involved
There are many ways to get involved in our mission to create a more inclusive and equitable media agency industry for all. Here’s where to start:
1. Share your story on Changing Perspectives
If you have a lived experience which can help generate awareness around diversity, we would love to hear it. Get in touch with me at linda@mediafederation.org.au
2. Complete the SBS Core Inclusion course
Our goal is for 70% of the industry to complete the course by the end of the year. It’s free, modular, interesting and important! Register here.
3. If your an NGENer join us f2f at the NGEN Building Inclusive Leadership Skills for a Better World workshops:
- Wednesday 21 June in Melbourne or
- Tuesday 27 June in Sydney