My Journey as a Risk Taker Through Academia, Work Culture, and Media Evolution.

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So this is what a double master's looks like?  

Few years ago, I took a bold step to venture far beyond my comfort zone. I wanted to challenge myself, to see if I could thrive in a different environment, better yet, in a different country.

Through the Australian Development Scholarship, I was fortunate to secure a double master’s program at Macquarie University in Sydney: a Master of Creative Industries and a Master of Media & Communications. My academic interests crossed Film, Storytelling Techniques, Digital Media Strategies (AI), Data Journalism, Strategic Media Campaigns, Crisis Communications, Interactive Media, Creative Entrepreneurship, Design & Strategy and Research & Development, all within the dynamic mix of creative industries and media communications.

The opportunity was not confined to academia. It opened doors to professional experiences that shaped my worldview. I worked with the Macquarie University Graduate Research Academy as a Research Intern and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) as a Communications Assistant. These roles immersed me in Australia’s work culture, structured, collaborative, and innovation-driven.

In Australia, I observed how systems are designed to encourage efficiency, inclusivity, and accountability, and the best part is that they (the systems) are reviewed every now and then due to various factors. Workplaces value diversity and actively integrate multicultural perspectives. This contrasts with Papua New Guinea’s work culture, which, while rich in community spirit and resilience, often struggles with systemic inefficiencies, resource constraints, and slower adaptation to technological change. Experiencing both cultures taught me that the world is not as vast as I once imagined; rather, it is interconnected, with lessons transferable across borders.


Fast forward to this year—I graduated with a double master’s, thanks to the Australian Awards program. Personally, I had already secured a steady job in my final semester of study; however, from observation, returning home has not been without challenges for some of my colleagues. Reintegration into PNG’s work systems requires patience and persistence. While some organisations are embracing ICT and modern practices, others remain hesitant, trailing behind global trends. This creates a gap in which specialist skills (degrees like mine) risk being underutilised, left metaphorically “decorating the wall of my house” rather than driving transformation.

Yet, I believe this is not a permanent state. With time, dialogue, and consistent advocacy, PNG can harness the expertise of returning scholars to strengthen its institutions. The challenge lies in bridging traditional ways of working with modern systems and finding a balance between cultural values and global best practices.


Globally, the media and creative industries are evolving at an unprecedented pace. Digital platforms, artificial intelligence, and data-driven storytelling are reshaping how information is produced and consumed. In PNG, however, the sector faces immense challenges: policy gaps, limited infrastructure, funding shortages, and a lack of skilled manpower.

Despite these hurdles, opportunities abound. The rise of mobile connectivity, social media, and community-driven content offers PNG a chance to leapfrog traditional barriers. If nurtured, the creative industries could become a powerful tool for nation-building, cultural preservation, and economic growth.

For those aspiring to pursue a Master’s program through the Australia Awards, here are a few tips:

  • Be clear about your purpose: Identify your area of interest and how it connects to PNG’s development needs.
  • Focus on impact: Pinpoint a flaw or gap in your sector and plan how your (new) skills will address it.
  • Stay adaptable: The journey will challenge your perspectives, embrace diversity, and help you learn from different cultures.
  • Network wisely: Build relationships with peers, mentors, and organisations; these connections will support your reintegration.
  • Think long-term: Your degree is not just for personal achievement; it is a tool to contribute meaningfully to your country.

My journey has shown me that education is more than a personal milestone—it is a bridge between cultures, systems, and possibilities. While PNG’s challenges are real, they are not insurmountable. With persistence, collaboration, and the courage to apply new skills, we can transform our institutions and industries.


To future awardees: your path will not be easy, but it will be rewarding. Step boldly, learn deeply, and return with the conviction to make a difference. For in the end, the true measure of success is not the degree on the wall, but the impact you create in the lives of others.

PNG to the World.

Disclaimer: All opinions stated are personal and do not represent my employer’s position.

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