They’re ambitious, innovative and highly intelligent – and they’re set to soon graduate from their chosen fields of study and launch careers that will inspire and change the world.
In the coming weeks we will profile 16 female graduates to watch in 2014 who are leading the next generation of female talent in science, medicine, law, business and research. They answer our questions on everything from what they hope to achieve in their careers, what inspires them and the challenges they anticipate they will face in their careers.
Today’s graduate is Tshibanda (Gracia) Ngoy, who came to Australia as a refugee with her family after fleeing conflict in Congo. In the 11 years that have passed, she has published her first book, A Little Recipe for Success, and has written a number of stories aimed at breaking down cultural barriers. Ngoy is also a refugee advocate, working as a caseworker for refugee families, a youth motivational speaker and tutor. Her community contributions have been recognised with several awards including New South Wales Young Volunteer of the Year and Australia’s Young People’s Human Rights Medal.
What degree are you studying and at which university?
Bachelor of Communication and Media Studies /Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Wollongong.
How old are you?
I am 21 years old.
Why did you choose to go into this field?
I grew up always wanting to be a journalist because I was so passionate from a young age to advocate against social injustices, and I knew something along the lines of journalism was the right way to go. I completed a freelance journalism course at the age of 15, so I wanted to extend my horizons, that’s why I decided to undertake a Communications Degree, and HR Degree.
What do you want to achieve in your career?
It’s never too clear to predict what exactly the future holds. But I hope someday to hold an executive position in one of the global humanitarian organisations and perhaps I might end up in academia.
What are the biggest challenges you face in trying to reach these goals?
The major challenges I’ve faced include language barriers, which is no longer an issue, but being a black woman from African background I have faced discrimination in various ways.
Where do you hope to be in 10 years time?
I hope to build 10-all girls high schools in developing countries that will provide women with the opportunity to study and get empowered because in many countries in the world education for women is still a luxury in the 21st century. I hope to contribute to the advancement of status of women through education.
Who do you admire most?
I admire leaders who value social justice and equality and embed these in all their practices.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
The best advice I’ve received from individuals would be “to believe in myself and never to give up”.