Introduction
From the vibrant streets of India to building a new chapter in Australia, Shailz Manocha’s journey is a story of passion, resilience, creativity, and continuous growth. With a diverse background spanning journalism, media, performing arts, and storytelling, Shailz has explored different creative worlds while remaining connected to her purpose of inspiring and connecting with people.
Beginning her career as a News Anchor, Journalist, and Presenter with renowned Indian media channels, Shailz has covered impactful stories, conducted exclusive interviews with prominent personalities, created meaningful documentaries, and contributed to important conversations through her work. Beyond journalism, her passion for performing arts, choreography, and creative expression has shaped a unique path filled with curiosity, courage, and transformation.
Today, Shailz continues to embrace new opportunities, carrying forward the experiences, lessons, and values that have shaped her journey.
My Journey: From India to Australia
My journey began in the colourful streets of India, where I was born and raised before making my way to Australia in 2014.
Growing up in a culturally rich and dynamic environment helped me develop a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives, creativity, and human stories. It also taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of embracing new challenges — qualities that have guided my professional journey in the media industry.
I began my media career in 2004 with renowned news channels such as Aaj Tak and Sahara News, working as a News Anchor, Journalist, and Presenter. Those early years shaped my understanding of storytelling and the responsibility that comes with presenting information to the public.
During my media career, I covered a wide range of stories, conducted exclusive interviews with leading Indian politicians and Bollywood celebrities, and worked on documentaries exploring important social and cultural topics. Two of my documentaries focused on poverty and cultural arts and heritage, allowing me to highlight stories that often remain unheard.
Alongside my media work, I also contributed articles to newspapers, expanding my experience in different forms of storytelling.
Exploring New Creative Paths
After gaining valuable experience in journalism, I moved to Mumbai, where I worked with my father and uncle in their production house. This phase allowed me to explore another side of the entertainment industry and understand the creative process behind television and film production.
During this time, I also completed an internship with Balaji Telefilms, where I worked as an Assistant Director and Post-Production Coordinator. This experience gave me valuable insight into the behind-the-scenes workings of television production, including coordination, creative planning, and the technical aspects involved in bringing stories to life.
I also participated in auditions for telefilms and television serials, not only to explore acting opportunities but also to understand the creative process and dedication involved in the entertainment industry. Experiencing auditions, performances, and production environments gave me a deeper appreciation for the collaborative nature of storytelling.
After spending time in Mumbai, I returned to Delhi and continued expanding my creative journey. I had the opportunity to work with RK Films and Media Academy as a dance performer and choreographer. Through this experience, I participated in stage performances representing India and explored the powerful connection between movement, music, and storytelling.
I also had the opportunity to feature in music albums with friends, including “Jaane Kya Hoga Rama Re” and “Seekho Na Naino Ki Bhasha Piya.”
Every experience added a new dimension to my journey and helped me discover different ways of expressing creativity.
A New Chapter: Moving to Australia
Every ending is a new beginning.
Moving to Australia in 2014 marked a significant transition in my life. Leaving behind familiar surroundings, a professional network, and a comfortable environment was challenging, but it also opened the door to new opportunities and personal growth.
Starting again in a new country taught me the importance of adaptability, courage, and believing in myself. It reminded me that every new chapter comes with uncertainty, but also with the possibility of discovering something greater.
Looking back, I realise that every experience — from journalism and filmmaking to performing arts and migration — has shaped who I am today.
The destination was never just a place on a map. The real journey was discovering who I became along the way.
I left with questions; I returned with a renewed perspective.
Achievements
Throughout my professional journey, some of the milestones I am grateful for include:
1. Recognition for Documentary Work
I was nominated for a recognised documentary award for my work on “Poverty,” including coverage highlighting life in slum communities, which was presented during a film festival at Siri Fort Auditorium.
2. Exclusive Interviews
I had the opportunity to conduct impactful and exclusive interviews with leading Indian politicians and Bollywood personalities, creating meaningful conversations through journalism.
3. National-Level Dance Recognition
I trained and performed with a competitive dance troupe that won national-level competitions and represented India through stage performances.
4. Experience with Balaji Telefilms
I completed an internship with Balaji Telefilms as an Assistant Director and Post-Production Coordinator, gaining valuable experience in television production, creative coordination, and the storytelling process behind successful productions.
My Passion: Storytelling Through Journalism and Creativity
I believe journalism is about much more than reporting headlines. It is about discovering the human stories behind events, understanding different perspectives, and giving a voice to those who may not always be heard.
As a News Anchor and Journalist, my goal was always to deliver stories with clarity, empathy, and authenticity. I wanted to transform complex information into meaningful conversations that connected with audiences and built trust.
Whether reporting from the field or presenting from the studio, my mission was to bridge the gap between events and people through accurate and compelling storytelling.
I have always been passionate about finding new ways to connect with communities and create conversations that matter.
The Art of Movement and Creative Expression
Beyond journalism, storytelling has always been at the heart of my creative journey.
As a movement storyteller, I have been deeply passionate about the connection between choreography, music, and visual expression. I believe movement has the power to communicate emotions that words sometimes cannot.
Whether designing choreography for performances, contributing to creative productions, or exploring storytelling through movement, my goal has always been to create experiences that inspire and connect with audiences.
Looking Forward
My journey has been filled with different chapters — journalism, filmmaking, performing arts, migration, and personal transformation.
Each experience has taught me valuable lessons about resilience, creativity, and embracing change.
Today, I continue to explore new opportunities with curiosity and purpose, carrying forward everything that has shaped my journey.
Because every story matters, every experience teaches us something, and every new beginning has the potential to become something extraordinary.
Thank you.
— Shailz Manocha
