Ho Pei Ning
As a fresh graduate from Nanyang Technological University, School of Art, Design, and Media, I envisioned a role that offered the flexibility to explore diverse work scopes in the media industry, all while building my understanding of the ever-changing creative landscape in Singapore. The Mediacorp Management Trainee programme delivered on all fronts, shaping my professional journey in ways I hadn't anticipated.
The past two years have been a refreshing departure from the mundane. This role often took me out of the traditional office setup, bringing me behind the scenes where the magic happens, and allowing me to get hands-on with exciting projects and productions. For instance, my stint in the newsroom at Channel News Asia (CNA) gave me opportunities to investigate issues that matter to my community and contribute to public awareness and discourse. I got to conduct interviews, curate news bulletins, craft podcasts, publish a feature article, and even work on the production of a special LIVE Talking Point episode. Another exceptional experience was my rotation for the long-form English drama series Sunny Side Up. There, I was fortunate to be involved in both story writing and production. Witnessing my words on the page come to life through collaboration and hard work on set gave me an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.
Throughout this programme, I was also exposed to cross-department strategic projects that contribute to Mediacorp’s direction. These change projects were an uphill task, as they pushed us out of our comfort zones to tackle big-picture matters, such as influencing company culture. Even so, I found this challenge reinvigorating my sense of purpose, as I got to work with like-minded individuals who shared my ideals for the local creative ecosystem. Being a part of these initiatives also gave me a platform to develop my personal and professional identity, and I believe this experience has equipped me with the invaluable skills needed to navigate the road ahead.
It’s been a whirlwind of an experience, and I find myself amazed by the breadth of my journey as I take a moment to write it all down. I’m very grateful for the invaluable guidance and inspiration I’ve received along the way, and I look forward to what comes next!
