‘I wanted to hear more stories from people who looked like me, sounded like me and had similar experiences.’
Anf Chansamooth, Certificate IV Screen and Media (Journalism) student
After 15 years working in marketing, 47-year-old Anf Chansamooth decided it was time for a change. Inspired by his family's migration story and a desire to see more diverse Australian voices represented in media, he enrolled in a Certificate IV in Screen and Media (Journalism) at TAFE NSW Ultimo.
Drawing on the skills and confidence gained through his studies, Anf created Migrant Wealth Builders. The podcast is dedicated to helping Australians from Southeast Asian backgrounds build wealth, confidence and community.

“My parents arrived in Australia from Laos in 1980 after the war with nothing but the desire to build a better life for our family,” Anf said. “Growing up, I often felt caught between cultures and unsure where I fit. I wanted to hear more stories from people who looked like me, sounded like me and had similar experiences.
“That's what inspired me to create Migrant Wealth Builders. It's a platform that shares real migrant experiences, practical tools and conversations that help people move from just getting by to thriving.”
Anf said studying journalism at TAFE NSW gave him the confidence and technical skills to bring the idea to life.
“Right now, Migrant Wealth Builders is a podcast, a growing newsletter and the beginnings of community events. My vision is to build it into a social enterprise. A place where migrants and their children feel seen, supported and empowered.”
Anf's journey comes as audience appetite for on-demand audio content continues to grow. The Reuters Institute's Digital News Report 2026 found news podcast consumption in Australia increased by four percentage points over the past year. This makes Australia one of only two countries globally to record an increase.
TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Media, Jessica Micallef, said success in today's media industry increasingly depends on the ability to create compelling content, build engaged audiences and respond to community needs.
“Today's storytellers are no longer confined to traditional roles or platforms,” Ms Micallef said. “They're creating podcasts, newsletters and video content that shares authentic stories and builds trust with their audiences”.
“Anf has identified a gap and developed the skills to address it. He’s created a platform that is empowering migrant Australians through storytelling and shared experiences. His journey highlights how media skills can be used not only to build a career but to create positive change within a community.”
Media enquiries only: Melanie O’Connell, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.
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