Changing Perspectives To Change Our Industry For the Better
Inspired by the lived-experiences of our industry colleagues
Cultural diversity, ageism and different abilities are just three important topics tackled in the MFA’s Changing Perspectives editorial series, published by AdNews, commissioned by the MFA DE&I Council who would like to see an industry where everyone can thrive, feel heard, supported, and safe to do their best work.
Here is a sample from three recent articles:
Start a conversation to overcome the hurdle of unconscious bias, by Sneha Nair, Diverse Director, Omnicom Media Group
It didn’t matter that I had a double masters, well over a decade of experience in media and branding across multiple countries, or that the majority of my experience was at two of the most prestigious agencies in the world. Instead, hiring managers were concerned about my English language proficiency. But this is an easy fix – pick up the phone and have a quick conversation. Read the full article here.
Age was never something I looked at or cared about, by Dick Laurie, Senior Strategic Director, UM Australia
Ageism is not a new industry dynamic, we’re just more willing to talk about it now. In my career, I have certainly witnessed both sides of ageism – towards younger and older professionals. In recent times, I’ve been told that I’m over-qualified/too costly/too experienced/you’d get bored quickly, when talking to prospective employers about potential roles. Read the full article here.
The workplace reality for employees who are neurodivergent, by Pawena Kaniah, Strategist, iProspect
My ND is absolutely my superpower. I realise that’s a privilege as an ND – not all NDs get to make their neurodivergence a superpower. For me, it allows me to hyperfocus on projects and deliver outstanding outputs, it gives me creativity and innovative thinking, it means I’m responsive and very flexible. Read the full article here.
We want everyone in our industry to get involved
There are many ways to get involved in the MFA's mission to create a more inclusive and equitable media agency industry for all. Here’s where to start:
1. 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 takes less than 2 hours, and is free, modular, interesting and important! Register here.
2. Read Changing Perspectives – and start a conversation
You can look out for Changing Perspectives on AdNews, or read them on the MFA website. We hope the stories inspire you to see things from a different perspective and start a conversation with a colleague, client, friend or stranger.
3. Share your story on Changing Perspectives
If you have a lived experience that can help generate awareness around diversity, we would love to hear it. Get in touch with MFA Director, People, Linda Wong, at linda@mediafederation.org.au