Sarah Ayoub

Author, Inspirational Speaker, Social Issues

Sarah Ayoub is a journalist and author. Her work has appeared in Marie-Claire, Cosmopolitan, The Guardian, Sunday Style, Girlfriend, CLEO and more. Sarah attended a mono-cultural school from Kindergarten to year 12 and the culture shock she experienced out in the real world inspired her to write her debut novel about race, identity, gender and belonging. She has spoken at schools and writers festivals across the east coast of Australia and appeared on TV and radio discussing her work and the social/cultural issues she covers. She has taught Journalism at the University of Notre Dame and is passionate about teens and seeing diversity in the arts. She blogs about writing, wanderlust and her inspirations at www.sarahayoub.com

Where were you born?

I was born in Sydney, Australia.

What other jobs have you had?

I’ve worked in retail and advertising, but writing caught me at a very young age.

What themes are recurring in your work?

My journalism portfolio contains pieces on a myriad of topics, from health and finance to current affairs, women’s issues, crime and social media. My books are all about adolescent issues and the reflections on identity, the future, friendships and relationships that are recurring in a teenager’s mind.

What have been the highlights of your career?

Having my novel published and taking it to so many schools and writer’s festivals has been the biggest blessing. Teaching Journalism – a topic I have loved for ages – at University level was fantastic as well.

Where have your works been published?

I’ve written for mainstream and independent media both in print and online, including The Guardian, ABC’s The Drum, Cosmopolitan, CLEO, Marie-Claire, Yen, Girlfriend, Sunday Style and more.

What are you passionate about?

Teenagers – I love exploring the complexity of the teenage spirit and believe that teenage girls in particular need to be aware of their potential through positive portrayals of gender sans the stereotypes we often see. I am also passionate about the changing media landscape and the hows and whys of storytelling. I am a big believer in the importance of racial diversity in our arts and pop culture industries.

Haven’t I seen you before?

You probably saw me at a café somewhere, scoffing far too much cake than necessary for one person.