About Makayla
Makayla is a journalist at AdNews, a trade title covering the media, marketing and advertising industries in Australia. She graduated from Western Sydney University with a Bachelor of Communication (with Distinction) in 2022. Makayla began her career at the ABC’s 7.30 before joining the Western Weekender and Daily Mail. This year, she was a finalist at the 2025 Samsung Australian IT Journalism Awards.
Features
A renovated convent has become a home for Ukrainian refugees in Central West NSW
A community effort to transform an empty convent into a home for Ukrainian refugees has paid off, with two families moving in last weekend.
Arezo Younes: A voice for the voiceless women of Afghanistan
Almost two decades ago, Arezo Younes was granted refugee status in Australia after escaping the Taliban regime with her mother and three brothers. Since then, she has become a prominent voice for Afghan women around the world and hopes to educate others about the challenges that immigrants face.
Sound West music and tech festival kicks off at CommBank Stadium
There is just one day to go before Western Sydney is energised by tech and arts festival Sound West. The weeklong festival will run from 20-28 August and will kick-start live entertainment post-COVID, something that is so important from a cultural and business perspective in Western Sydney.
Australian artists on the frontline in Ukraine
Australian artists George Gittoes and Hellen Rose tell features editor Makayla Muscat about their experience on the frontline in Ukraine, where they are documenting the effects of the ongoing Russian invasion.
Legendary racehorse Winx's first foal sells for breathtaking world record sum, smashing the previous best Australian price by millions
The Pierro-Winx filly was bought by Winx's part owner, Debbie Kepitis' Woppitt Bloodstock at the Inglis Easter Yearling Sale in Sydney.
Mardi Gras is ‘Always On’
While the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is best known for its festival, particularly its parade, the ‘Always On’ initiative ensures it’s engaged with the community year-round.
Life, death and religion explored in Wallworth’s new show
Ahead of her appearance at the Sydney Opera House’s UnWrapped festival, Emmy Award-winning artist and filmmaker Lynette Wallworth tells features editor Makayla Muscat what inspired her new live show.
Clemenger BBDO reveals alternate ending for Myer's Share The Joy
Clemenger BBDO has revealed that Myer’s 2024 Christmas campaign could have taken a different turn, with the character Humbug originally set to spell out an expletive using Christmas lights.
Virtual Trek for Timor returns
The Blue Mountains Trek for Timor is a biennial event held to raise funds for development projects and educational support in Timor-Leste.
Discovering human power through adversity
Michael Crossland has been defying the odds since the age of 11 months, when he was diagnosed with a rare cancer. Now as one of Australia’s most respected inspirational speakers, he tells Makayla Muscat the keys to his success.
Australia’s vow to support Afghan refugees
Features editor Makayla Muscat investigates how Afghans are settling in Australia following the fall of Kabul.
Remembering the First World War through German-Australian eyes
Over a century since the end of Word War I, features editor Makayla Muscat speaks to historian Dennis Overton about two brothers landing at Anzac Cove under fire.
