MASTERCHEF'S MELISSA: ‘I'M PROUD TO BE ME!'

How Melissa Leong is pioneering change in television

- Laura Masia.

When food writer Melissa Leong first graced our screens as a judge on MasterChef Australia alongside chefs Andy Allen and Jock Zonfrillo in 2020, many heralded her presence as a breath of fresh air.

An Asian woman front and centre of one of television’s biggest reality shows felt like a step in the right direction for cultural representation. But while Melissa is honoured by her role in bringing more diversity to our screens, she wants to make one thing clear – there’s a long way to go.

“I’m proud to be a face that isn’t common on television at this point,” the 39-year-old says. “I hope we can continue to move forward in terms of representation of all kinds. It’s not just about me in my Chinese skin – it’s about people of all perspectives, abilities, identities and cultures.”

In the wake of xenophobic attacks on Asian people worldwide, Melissa admits it’s a topic that hits home for her.