Straight out of Dub-Vegas: five questions for Tara Callinan on IndigenousX
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Version 0 of 1. Tell us about who you are, where you are from, and what you do. My name is Tara Callinan and I am a 22-year old Wiradjuri woman from the beautiful town of Dubbo. Actually, we’re classified as a city now, which is pretty exciting. I was born and raised in what locals call Dub-Vegas and lived there until moving to Brisbane in 2011 to pursue a journalism dream at the University of Queensland. Whilst studying I was offered a job at NITV News in Sydney which is where I live now, making news every day for the ears and eyes of Australia’s culturally diverse population. What do you plan to focus on during your week as host of @IndigenousX? This week I will erupt the Twittersphere with my motivational quotes, entertain mob with my shameless selfies and deliver daily news to all followers interested in Indigenous affairs. You’ll also get an insight into the life of a video journalist for NITV News. And I’d love for you to send through any story ideas you might have for me to consider. What issues are you most passionate about and why? I am interested in all issues that affect everyone - no matter what race, age or gender you are. However, if I had to pick one then I should say I am most passionate about the arts. Growing up I always had a paint brush in my hand, ballet shoes on my feet and a hairbrush in the shower so it’s always a pleasure to report on issues related song and dance. I believe that the arts offer a platform for people to express their individuality and suppressed emotions, and I encourage all followers to try something creative at least once this week whist I’m playing host. Who are your role models, and why? My parents are my role models. They make me the person I am today and they are the reason why I worked so hard to achieve my career goals. They have held my hand in times of need and let go when it was time for me to spread my wings. For that I thank them from the bottom of my heart. What are your hopes for the future? In a nutshell, I want the future to be a happy place. As the wise Martin Luther King Jr. himself once said: “I have a dream that one day little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls and walk together as sisters and brothers.” It pains me to think this world will never eradicate racism but I remain hopeful for the future. In terms of my own personal journey, I hope to one day be a successful news anchor, respected role model and proud mother. |