Ink and Inspiration: Two Filipinas share how to navigate a book author career in Australia

In this episode of Trabaho, Visa, atbp., Anna Manuel and Dr. Celia Torres-Villanueva share the process of becoming a book author in Australia and whether this profession can be financially rewarding.

Anna Manuel and Dr. Celia Torres-Villanueva share how to navigate a book author career in Australia. Credit: SBS Filipino

Key Points

• According to Job and Skills Australia, there are approximately 5,400 book authors and book and script editors in Australia, with 63% of them being women and 37% working part-time.
• Anna Manuel is a storyteller in Australia who decided to document her interactions with children through a children’s book.
• Dr. Celia Torres-Villanueva, a career coach who has loved writing since childhood, put it aside due to various full-time jobs and studies but now has time to pursue it.
• Both Anna and Celia went through self-publishing, as it is a simpler process compared to traditional publishing.

In an interview with SBS Filipino, Anna Manuel and Dr. Celia Torres-Villanueva shared their desire to introduce the writing career to fellow migrants in Australia through an event called Literary Career Transformation: Fireside Chat and Author Showcase.

Storyteller and book author Anna Manuel Credit: Anna Manuel

Celia Torres-Villanueva has been named one of the 5 finalists from 77 nominees for the Australian Professionals of Colour (APOC) Corporate Legend Award. Credit: Supplied

The aim of this event is to highlight female writers from multicultural backgrounds and provide a platform for local authors. It is scheduled to take place on 31 August 2024, Saturday, at 2 PM at Kensington Town Hall in Melbourne.

“Broaden and diversify your bookshelves,” says Dr. Villanueva.