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Mia Goreng’s Life Story: Resilience, Adaptability, and Boundless Creativity

Updated: Jul 31, 2024

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Mia Goreng’s life story is one of resilience, adaptability, and boundless creativity. Born and raised in Malaysia, Mia’s journey took her through challenging family dynamics, cultural shifts, and personal struggles before she found her true home in Melbourne. Her narrative stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of embracing one’s passions.


Early Life in Malaysia

Growing up in Malaysia, Mia was enveloped by a rich diversity of cultures. "I was very sheltered, spoiled but also very culturally rich." The vibrant backdrop of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences provided a lively environment filled with amazing food and numerous public holidays.


Western Influence in Upbringing

“My mum studied in London, so I was brought up in a very Westernised way but she still had a focus on religion. English is my first language despite being born in Malaysia.” Living in such a multicultural environment, Mia relished the diversity and richness that came with it.


Embracing Multiculturalism

The multicultural environment in Malaysia instilled in Mia an appreciation for diversity. This early exposure to different cultures laid the foundation for her open-mindedness and adaptability, traits that would serve her well throughout her life.

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Shaping Worldviews at an International School

Attending an international school broadened Mia’s perspective and made her more accepting of diverse cultures. “My mum was also a big influence; we travelled to many countries, visiting friends in places like the Netherlands, UK, Turkey, and more.” These travels instilled a sense of curiosity and openness that would later define her approach to life and career.


Navigating Family Challenges

Mia’s family life was deeply impacted by her parents’ divorce and her mother’s passing when she was just 14. Living with her father and stepmother presented numerous challenges. "I often felt like I was walking on eggshells every day in my 'own home.'"


Her stepmother’s verbal abuse and her father’s complicity created an emotionally tumultuous environment. "Losing my mum was devastating, and it didn’t help when my stepmother told me, ‘Your mum must have died from the stress you caused her.’"


Her stepmother’s preference for Mia’s brother and the restricted freedom further isolated her. "From living an extroverted, colourful life with my mum to a confined life with my dad and stepmother - it was a massive 180." Despite these hardships, Mia found solace online, spending time on the internet or watching TV, which she now attributes to dealing with depression during those years.


Moving to Melbourne

The decision to move to Melbourne for her studies wasn’t her own, leaving her feeling uprooted. "It was heartbreaking to leave my friends and life at college as I felt like I'd just settled in." "It happened so quickly; I was told in December, and by February, I was in Melbourne."


Initially living with her step-sister and another housemate, Mia struggled with the adjustment and the expectations placed on her. However, Melbourne soon became a place of growth and discovery. Pursuing a foundation in art and design, followed by a degree in advertising at RMIT University, Mia found her academic stride. "RMIT allowed me to explore different creative avenues, from film photography to digital art, graphic design, copywriting, and more."

Despite excelling, she chose not to invite her parents to her graduation. "It didn’t feel natural; I never felt they were truly proud of me," adding that Melbourne was her safe space where she could be herself, away from her family’s critical eyes.

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Overcoming Homelessness and Visa Challenges

After graduation, Mia faced the challenge of returning to Malaysia, a move orchestrated by her stepmother. "After a particularly abusive text from my stepmother, I decided to stay in Melbourne. In the middle of the night, with the help of friends, I moved all my belongings and cut ties with my family."


The period that followed was marked by homelessness and unemployment. "I was lucky to have generous friends willing to put up with me." Despite the support, these were tough times. "I did odd jobs here and there and sometimes received money from my parents and aunties."


Her resilience paid off when she eventually overcame significant visa challenges. With perseverance and support from employers, Mia secured permanent residency in Australia. "There were a lot of issues, including one where I almost got deported, but we got there in the end!"


Embracing Freelancing and Social Media

Redundancy from her full-time job turned out to be a blessing in disguise, pushing Mia to focus on freelancing and social media. "It turned out to be the best thing that could ever happen to me."


Embracing her role as a content creator, Mia enjoys a balanced work-life and the opportunity to connect with a diverse community. "I think memorable experiences include working with brands I love and no longer having to live paycheck to paycheck."


Freelancing allowed Mia to work smarter, not harder, as well as giving her the freedom to appease her travel and wanderlust. Leaving full-time life allowed Mia to put more focus on her personal social media channels.

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Challenges and Rewards as a Social Media Content Creator

Being a social media influencer has its own set of challenges and rewards. "You meet incredible people but also attract the wrong kind—social climbers, haters."


Navigating through fake people and dealing with imposter syndrome, she has learned to maintain her authenticity and confidence. "I’ve been body shamed and judged for what I wear, but I’m comfortable in my skin and aware that people who tear others down are often unhappy with something in their own lives."


Mia uses her platform to connect authentically with her followers and support small businesses. "I try to be 100% myself and only promote things I genuinely like." This approach has won her loyal followers who appreciate her honesty and authenticity.


Future Plans and Citizenship

As Mia prepares for her Australian citizenship ceremony, she looks forward to buying her first home and travelling more. Her advice to others facing similar challenges? "Keep going; it gets better. It might feel like the end of the world, but one day, you’ll look back and remember you made it. Do what makes you happy," encouraging others to pursue their passions.

Mia’s future plans include more travel and continuing to build her brand as a content creator. She aims to use her experiences to inspire and motivate others, showing that despite hardships, success is attainable through perseverance and passion.


Mia’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of embracing one’s passions. Her journey from Malaysia to Melbourne, through personal struggles and professional triumphs, serves as an inspiration to many. Mia Goreng’s life is a powerful narrative that encourages us all to persevere, stay true to ourselves, and always strive for what makes us happy.


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