Michael Tian and his 30 Under 30 Success

Every year, our 30 Under 30 Awards celebrate all the magnificent people who have inspired LGBTQIA+ people within Australia. Michael Tian was one of our winners for his dedication to helping international students not only navigate their way in a new country, but also their sexualities and queer journey. His leadership skills and passion for sharing stories is a great example for all our winners.

Michael moved to Australia from China in 2018. Due to a complicated personal life and the rigid social values he was brought up with, Michael had difficulties expressing his sexual orientation as well as other personal matters. The pressure led to him needing a change, propelling him to explore the world. Michael’s knowledge on Australia was limited. He didn’t know what being gay meant in Australia. As long as he could leave his home and have a chance to start a new life, he was happy. It is very fortunate for us that he chose Australia.

Story Is Connection

Upon moving here, Michael joined many international organisations to help him with his English. This led him to Story is Connection: a Melbourne-based not-for-profit organisation that promotes improvisation and storytelling for international students. While every person’s journey is unique, it is also a way to connect with others who may have similar stories.

“They encourage more international students to perform their own authentic stories on the stage,” Michael explained. “I was inspired by the people who came from a similar background as me.”

It was during this time where Michael learnt to tell his own story. At first, he was unsure of himself, and felt ashamed to tell his story. Over time, his confidence grew. Michael started to develop a closer relationship with Managing Director Feifei Liao, who has become a best friend and mentor to Michael. Feifei would go on to create Feifei Curiosity, which emphasises the importance of creative storytelling leading to impact at change.

During one of their earliest discussions, Feifei asked a simple question: ‘Are you gay?’ In shock, Michael denied it. However, as his confidence grew, he started to openly discuss his sexuality as well as other aspects personal to him. Michael soon learnt the impact his courage had on others.

Michael’s Impact

One day, a student came up to Michael and told him that they had just come out to their parents. What Michael had said in an earlier performance sparked something in them and encouraged them to have the discussion with their family. It is hard to know just how many people Michael has helped by simply sharing his story, but it goes to show that having people like him in our lives makes a world of difference to those who need it.

Michael’s efforts have led him to become a finalist for both the Victorian LGBTIQ Person of the Year award as well as the Student Leadership Awards. The fact that so many organisations have acknowledged his hard work shows just how lucky Australia is to count him as one of our own.

There are 500 students volunteering in Story is Connection. Michael enjoys talking to newer students and helping them along their journeys. His focus on diversity and inclusion makes sure that all the students he comes across feel welcomed.

Mentoring

“I have always been mentored by someone, and they have taught me you can actually build your confidence by having a try,” he says.

Feifei’s impact on Michael extends beyond his creative pursuit. She is the person who encouraged Michael to attend Midsumma Festival and Pride, which has had a momentous impact on his sense of self.

“When people say I look gay, I feel happy. I feel safe as well,” he says. This feeling of freedom and security has changed Michael into a much happier person.

Michael was familiar with Out For Australia since before he won his award, as he used Mentorloop to connect with Gui Schneider, who works as a Senior Product Designer. Michael learnt a lot from Gui, and was proud to invite him as his plus one when Michael received his award. The amount of knowledge and confidence Michael gained since connecting with Gui has helped him immensely.

Impacting Others

Now Michael loves sharing what he has learnt with others and is excited to be a part of other people’s journeys. His full-time job as a Peer Mentoring Officer at RMIT University means that he can help many young people as they stumble their way through their newfound independence. His experience helps him relate to many of these students.

“When people first come to Australia, it can be difficult to learn about all the resources that can help them,” he explains. Michael’s aim is to use everything he has learnt to make an impact on others.

Michael is looking forward to more representation on all the stages. “We might inspire different LGBTQIA+ people from different perspectives.” His experience as a gay man from China may resonate with some people, but he also believes it is important for everyone from any country, gender or sexuality, to share their journeys.

Becoming an Advocate

As much as Michael believes in people sharing their stories, it is also important for everyone to come out in their own time and share in a way that is authentic to them.

“Being accountable is very important,” says Michael. Even though he may not be out to certain friends and family members, he understands the importance of his representation. This can be done by something simple such as sharing your journey on TikTok or by becoming a part of a movement that makes sure stories can be heard.  

“Becoming an advocate isn’t just about saying something. You really have to represent the specific community you want to advocate for. You also really have to know yourself and understand yourself before you become an advocate.”

Since winning his award, Michael has joined Out For Australia as the Victorian Outreach Coordinator. His experience makes him a valued member of our team.

Learning More

To learn more about Story is Connection and to learn about how you can get involved, visit their website.  Follow Michael Tian on Linkedin to see where his path leads him.

If you would like to look for a mentor, Mentoring Program — Out For Australia

Nominations

The nominations for Out For Australia’s 2023 30 Under 30 Awards are now open. You can either nominate someone who insprires you or showcase all your efforts by nominating yourself.

Nominations close on 28 July. Good luck to all the entries.