Writer, Journalist, Founder, Editor, Consultant & Lecturer

I tell stories about identity and power, with a feminist approach.

I make sense of China and Asia in a global context.

I’m a writer, multi-platform journalist, media founder, freelance consultant and educator from Hong Kong. Now judging this year’s Orwell Prize in Political Writing, I’ve spent over a decade reporting from Asia, Europe and the US for The Guardian, BBC, Financial Times, CNN, LA Review of Books, WIRED, The Economist and many more publications. Shortlisted for the Philip Hoare Prize for global creative non-fiction and Georgina Henry Award for Innovation, I’ve also been recognised for my reporting by the World Association of News Publishers, among others.

Now based in London, I teach journalism part-time at Kingston University and freelance as a consultant. I founded New Tide, Britain’s only East and Southeast Asian journalism network, and NüVoices Magazine, a digital platform run out of the US-based China feminist nonprofit. I’m also contributing editor at Translator, a publication of translated journalism.

Journalism

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Editing

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Coaching

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Public speaking

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Workshops

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Consulting

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Research

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Journalism · Editing · Coaching · Public speaking · Workshops · Consulting · Research ·

What I offer

I’m available for commissions, coaching, lecturing, consulting opportunities, pitches, speaking engagements and other requests (e.g. workshops, research, collaborations). Want to work together? Drop me a message and let’s discuss how I can add value.

  • Whether you’re a journalist seeking to transition into freelancing, or a student looking to break into the media industry—I’ve got you covered. I offer 1:1 coaching appointments tackling a diverse range of topics: how to navigate freelancing, career transitions/trajectory planning, story editing, pitch workshop, sensitivity reading, CV/job applications/portfolio website/cover letter editing, preparing for broadcast appearances, breaking into lecturing, launching new media platforms and more.

    My guidance and feedback draws on my 12+ years of practical media experience, as well as academic modules I’ve taught at Kingston University (Media Employability, Working with Words, and Journalism for a Digital Audience, which is an NCTJ certified course). Visit the coaching tab on my website for more details.

  • At present, I work part-time as a lecturer at Kingston University, where I teach journalism and media employability to undergraduates and postgraduates studying media and communications. Modules I’ve taught include Working with Words, which teaches writing and editing, and Journalism for a Digital Audience, an NCTJ certified course. I also developed and delivered a module on media employability that featured speakers from across the industry.

    Over the years, I’ve also taught workshops on freelance pitching and writing, in addition to guest speaking at various universities and think tanks. Have an idea for a workshop? Let me help you shape and build it to maximise engagement and uptake.

  • I’m available for freelance consulting opportunities on the following topics: developing multimedia initiatives and platforms, China policy and consumer culture analysis, Asia-focused foreign policy and geopolitical risk assessment, China and women cultural trends, digital media strategy, higher education insights, Gen Z social media trends, crisis communication for businesses and expert referral.

    I’ve shared strategies on developing decolonial, anti-racist and intersectional feminist policies with the Centre for Feminist Foreign Policy (CFFP) in Berlin, as part of a year-long working group on improving the discourse around feminist foreign policy. I’ve also provided insights on a strategic communications webinar hosted by The Whitehouse Consultancy in London. Drop me a message and let’s see how I can add value. Reach out to learn more.

  • Journalism

    My over decade-long journalism experience involves writing and editing compelling narratives for both print and digital media. A versatile journalist comfortable writing in different formats and styles, I have a track record of filing clear and punchy copy under tight deadlines.

    Copywriting

    I’m skilled at breaking down complex subjects into clear, engaging copy with nuance and care. I’ve worked on various annual reports, research and copywriting projects for think tanks, charities and NGOs such as Media Defence, The Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung and Limelight Foundation.

  • Through my editing roles at NüVoices, Translator Magazine, and various international newsrooms, I’ve achieved demonstrated success in commissioning and shaping engaging content, as well as managing a global roster of contributors. In addition to skilfully delivering both structural and line edits, I’m experienced at nurturing relationships with a diverse range of contributors, from established voices to emerging talent. My feedback is sharp, holistic, and above all clear.

    I also have experience as a sensitivity and authenticity reader, most recently for author Vincent Bevins on his book If We Burn: The Mass Protest Decade and the Missing Revolution.

  • I’m an experienced presenter, moderator and speaker who has appeared on broadcast, in-person and online programs hosted by Chatham House, Amnesty International, BBC World News, BBC Woman’s Hour, Oxford University, Channel 4 News and many more. At the International Journalism Festival in Perugia, I spoke on a CNN-hosted panel about extractive journalism and China reporting.

    I’m open to speaking engagements on the following topics: diversity and representation in media, China and East and Southeast Asia, diasporic communities, press freedom, anti-racism, feminism, human rights reporting, digital media.

Work with me

WHAT SETS ME APART

No matter what project I’m undertaking, whether it’s editing a report, launching a new media platform or developing a workshop—I care deeply about the process and the people in it. When you hire me, you’ll get someone who is not only creative, dynamic, resourceful and results-driven, but also adept at navigating complexities with empathy and nuance. As a cross-cultural and multi-disciplinary creative, here’s what I bring to the table:

  • Engaging and creative storytelling

  • Sharp news judgement

  • Cultural radar

  • Dynamic entrepreneurship

  • Rights-centred perspective

  • Bridge leadership that fosters collaboration

  • Meticulous fact-checking and risk assessment

Testimonials

  • "Jessie's ability to take on complex subjects and turn them into clear, thoughtful, well-judged work that meets both editorial and organisational needs is impressive. I would warmly recommend her to NGOs, think tanks, foundations, and other mission-driven organisations looking for someone who can develop and deliver thoughtful, high-quality media and copywriting work with care and intelligence."

    —Inge Snip, Communications and Partnerships Manager at Limelight Foundation

  • "I've witnessed Jessie launch and manage several successful multi-platform projects and media platforms, nurturing them from the ground up into exciting ventures with high levels of growth. Jessie is one of the most dynamic and entrepreneurial editorial leaders I know and I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking her expertise on media and communications."

    —Joanna Chiu, Managing Partner at Nüora Global Advisors and author of China Unbound

  • "I am grateful for Jessie's outstanding support and mentoring during my time on the BA Journalism & Media Course at Kingston University. Her guidance provided me with increasing clarity, focus and helped me better exhibit my skills and experience alongside professionalism. Her support was a key factor in my success securing a highly competitive intern placement."

    —Omar Wane, Student

  • I would totally recommend Jessie. She has been running a core module on media employability ...the students really like her and she has so much experience that is so useful to students. She has been absolutely great and I don't know what I would've done without her."

    —Colette Balmain, Senior Lecturer in Media and Communications at Kingston University

  • "Jessie has been an inspiring editor, mentor, and role model who has taught me so much about the journalism industry. (She) has been vital in my admissions to journalism Master's programs. In addition to giving me valuable experiences in the field, she also advised me on applying to J-school and wrote me a letter of recommendation that helped me get accepted into USC, UC Berkeley and Columbia University.

    —Suchita Thepkanjana, Student