Changing Perspectives... 
on Inclusion

Hello! I’m Clara. I was born and raised in Indonesia and moved to Melbourne at 18 for university. I’m now a Digital Executive at detnsu.

I’ve only been in the media industry for just over a year, and one of my biggest challenges has been finding my voice and my place within it.

The pace of this industry doesn’t make it easy. There’s always something new to learn, creating a constant feeling of needing to not only catch up, but keep up. Whether it’s new platforms, tools, or the growing conversations around AI reshaping media and the need to future-proof your craft, it often feels like you’re expected to evolve as quickly as the industry does.

These uncertainties are universal. But when you’re still crawling your way in the industry, it can feel like you’re always one step behind. Just as you begin to feel confident in your skills – whether it’s earning a certification or owning your campaign independently – the industry has already moved on to the next big thing.

Dealing with impostor syndrome
Being surrounded by people with more experience, perspective, and depth, it’s hard not to question how you measure up. Even in a role I worked really hard towards, there is this underlying insecurity that I haven’t fully earned my place and that I might just be ‘one of the lucky ones’.

For me, that pressure turned into self-doubt. I felt like I constantly needed to prove my value, either by always finding something new to bring or by striving for perfection in everything I did. Ironically, it held me back. I often defaulted to being a “sponge” – observing, absorbing and learning as much as possible, so that one day, I’d have ‘enough’ to speak up and contribute meaningfully.

Redefining what it means to be ‘Junior’
Over time, I realised that being early in my career isn’t a disadvantage, but it’s kind of my secret weapon. As a junior, I bring curiosity, adaptability, and the eagerness to learn. As I started my career in an environment of constant change, I’ve become comfortable with it.

It’s no longer about proving I belong in the same room as my seniors, but recognising that I bring something different – and that real value comes from combining those strengths. That only works when there is space for both.

Making space for every voice
For leaders, intentionally creating that space is critical. Actively inviting input, encouraging ownership and decision-making, and providing stretch opportunities that challenge us beyond our comfort zone creates a safe ground for us to grow.

Equally important is recognising and valuing our contributions and ideas. When people feel safe to share fresh perspectives, teams become more multidimensional, and that’s where real innovation happens.

For those still finding their footing, like I am, you don’t need to have all the answers to add value. There’s growth in being the least experienced person in the room. You’re the one with the most to learn, and therefore, the most to gain. It’s freeing when your career is no longer defined by the pursuit of excellence, but rather, curiosity, willingness to learn, and the resilience to navigate the unknowns.

I’m extremely grateful to be part of an agency where every voice is heard and celebrated, regardless of your role. It’s refreshing to see initiatives that provide mentorship, opportunities to engage in decision-making with senior leadership and to participate in industry awards.

This is both a thank you to my agency and a nudge to our industry.

When we continue to empower and lift one another, no matter where we are in our careers, we not only grow as individuals, but we move the industry forward together.