From Snake on a Nokia 3310 to connecting communities - Before joining Telstra, I actually imagined myself working in land conservation — something close to the bush and animals. But funny enough, my first spark of interest in this industry came from owning my very first mobile phone.
From Snake on a Nokia 3310 to connecting communities - Before joining Telstra, I actually imagined myself working in land conservation — something close to the bush and animals. But funny enough, my first spark of interest in this industry came from owning my very first mobile phone.
It was a classic Nokia 3310 on a Telstra plan — calling friends anytime and playing endless hours of Snake brought me pure joy. The Telstra name had always been part of my life, so when I came across an ad for a tech role 12 years ago, I felt an immediate connection and went for it
Back then, I thought making a phone call was as simple as dialing a number. I never stopped considering what really happens in the background. Now, over a decade into the job, I’m still learning every day and constantly amazed by the tech and people that make even the simplest call possible.
One of my proudest moments is being able to share my culture — whether it’s with Elders, youth, or workmates. Watching people light up when we bring our stories and traditions to life always fills my cup.
I’ve also been lucky enough to express that culture through my art, now featured on the People Hub page in Tech Plus. While it’s not the most visited page, it’s a quiet symbol of how far culture can reach.
Outside of work, I’ve had opportunities to represent my culture in powerful ways — from dancing at Dance Rites and Yabun Festival, to featuring in an art screening at the Australian Museum and even sharing the screen with a well-known Aussie actor in a documentary.
If I could give one piece of advice to my younger self — or to anyone — it’s this:
Take the time to sit, listen, and learn from our Elders.
Their stories carry knowledge, identity, and survival. I didn’t always value those moments growing up, and with the passing of our Old People, we risk losing those connections. Sharing is how culture lives on.
"Dont be shame , be game. Put your hand up. Have a crack. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Embrace change, challenge yourself, and always stay grounded — remember where you came from and how far you’ve come."
In five years, I hope to be even more involved in Indigenous advocacy at Telstra — supporting new and existing staff, helping create a culturally safe and inclusive environment, and continuing to bring cultural visibility into everything we do.
Outside of work, I want to keep strengthening cultural knowledge in my community, ensuring our stories and traditions are passed on. Both journeys are equally important.
There was a time I saw work as just that — a job. But that changed when I started reconnecting with culture and weaving it into my everyday life.
Whether it’s seeing an Acknowledgement sign, decals on a Telstra truck, or bringing cultural protocols into my interactions, these moments mean something. They ground me and connect me.
Now, I’m not just fixing equipment — I’m helping connect people and communities. I’m not just travelling for work — I’m walking on Country, learning more about my own tribal area, and paying respect to others.
Get in and have a go.
You’ll never learn if you don’t try — and mistakes are a part of the journey.
If you’re surrounded by culture, soak it all in. If not, ask questions. Take the steps.
Because when you start actively looking for culture, knowledge, or connections, you’ll always find something worth holding onto.
Curious about a career at Telstra? Learn more on our careers website.
