From Student to Professional: Mythbusting Life After TAFE

Life after TAFE isn't always what you imagine. From navigating the job market to finding your place in a competitive industry, discover the challenges, surprises and opportunities that come with turning your passion for media into a professional career.

Hear from TAFE alumni as they share their personal journeys, reflect on the realities of working in media and challenge common misconceptions about life after graduation. Explore the lessons they've learned, the skills that have shaped their careers and the advice they'd give to the next generation of media professionals.

Panel Guests:

• Patrick Roach – Patrick Roach is an esports commentator, creative strategist and content creator working with New York-based esports staking company 1v1Me, where he provides commentary across EA Sports FC, Counter-Strike and Tekken. A TAFE NSW Screen and Media alumnus, he developed his independent platform, Roachy TV, through gaming videos, short-form content and livestreaming, which led to his recruitment by 1v1Me in 2025. He continues to create content under the Roachy TV brand alongside his professional commentary and digital marketing work.
• Karl Svikis – Karl Svikis is a Sydney-based voiceover artist and radio producer, with professional experience across commercial radio, sports broadcasting and advertising. Represented by EM Voices, he has provided voiceover work for major brands and worked as a producer for Southern Cross Austereo and Sports Entertainment Network. A TAFE NSW Radio and Podcasting alumnus, Karl subsequently completed a Graduate Diploma in Radio and Podcasting at the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS).
• Chelsea Louise – Chelsea Louise is a social media manager, digital content creator and founder of Chels Louise Media, specialising in social media strategy, content production and brand storytelling. A TAFE NSW Screen and Media alumna, she has worked with businesses and creators, managing content development, digital campaigns and online engagement.

About the Event:

Hosted by TAFE Diploma of Screen and Media students, this event forms part of a real-world industry project designed to provide practical experience in media production, interviewing, live events and content creation. Throughout the day, students will host panel discussions, engage with industry professionals, ask questions and produce media content surrounding the event.

The session aims to be less of a formal lecture and more of an authentic industry conversation, offering attendees the opportunity to hear honest insights, ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the transition from studying media to building a professional career in the industry.

Whether you're a current student, considering studying media or exploring career opportunities in journalism, broadcasting, digital media or content creation, this forum offers valuable insights into the experiences and pathways of TAFE graduates.

Livestream Available
If you can’t attend on campus or are joining from another location, you’ll be able to watch the event via YouTube livestream. The viewing link will be provided in a reminder email two days before the event.

Want to see more?
We have panels running throughout the day! Check the links below for more information and to register.

1. Beyond the Headline: Trust, Truth & Modern Journalism
2. Cut Through the Scroll: How Creators Get Noticed
3. The Power of Audio: Radio, Podcasting & the Future of Listening

Info: From newsroom ethics to AI and misinformation, explore the challenges shaping modern journalism and the importance of truth and trust.

Info: What does it take to stand out online? Discover how creators break through the noise, grow audiences and turn content into opportunity.

Info: What makes audio so powerful? Discover how radio and podcasts connect audiences, amplify voices and transform the way we experience stories.

Info: Explore the challenges, surprises and opportunities of life after TAFE as alumni share the realities of building a career in media.

Event venue & nearby stays

TAFE NSW - 1 Mary Ann Street, Ultimo, 2007, NSW, Australia

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.

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