For the first time since 1998, ABC’s Race Around The World filmmaking competition returns for a new generation.
Hosted by Zan Rowe, alongside regular guest judge and original series contestant John Safran, six young Aussies will have a shot at winning their very own project produced and funded by the ABC.
The six competitors will travel alone through 10 different countries, challenged to deliver a new short film every 10 days across the 100 day competition.
Not only will they need to churn out these films, but they will shoot, write, edit and produce each film all on their own.
This year’s challengers include ‘people-first’ filmmaker Elliot (NSW), marine biologist Jayden (NT), arts school graduate and lollipop lady Kate (VIC), author and internet personality Lucinda (NSW), data scientist William (QLD) and sports marketing and film industry freelancer Mikaela from right here in WA.
Mikaela is creative and passionate and is the show’s youngest filmmaker; a proud Gen Z representative.
Aware of her reality growing up in the rise of creators and influencers, she instinctively understands how audiences connect, social media’s language and the world of digital media. Witty, sociable and comfortable in her skin and she’s described as being extremely likeable.
Mikaela lives in Perth and is proud of her mixed heritage. Her four grandparents come from India, Portugal, Sri Lanka and the Netherlands. Working part time in Corporate Sports Marketing as a Content Creator for Hockey WA she also freelances in the Film Industry, often in the art department.
She has just completed a double degree in Arts and Commerce, at Curtin University graduating with Honours in Film.
The Racers will be judged by some of Australia’s film and television giants, including Margaret Pomeranz, Gracie Otto, Claudia Karvan and Bruce Beresford.
Alongside John Safran, the original series featured Olivia Rousset who became a respected documentary filmmaker, and Bentley Dean who went on to gain an Oscar nomination for his later work.
Race Around The World begins Sunday, 7 June on ABC and ABC iView.
