Introducing NIA’s 2025 Editorial Fellows: Voices Behind the Change

What does it take to tell Asia’s most urgent, under-told stories? At NewInAsia, we believe it begins with voices that blend curiosity, cultural depth, and the courage to explore complexity.

That’s why, for the first time, we launched a competitive selection process to identify emerging storytellers who reflect the region’s diversity and possess the clarity, purpose, and originality needed to lead meaningful conversations.

We’re proud to introduce our 2025 Editorial Fellows — a standout group of writers, researchers, and communicators shaping the narrative of innovation, sustainability, and impact across the region.

From Singapore to South Korea, pharmacy to podcasting, these nine fellows bring a powerful mix of academic insight and lived experience to the newsroom. Whether they’re decoding policy, spotlighting changemakers, or reframing public discourse, each voice is uniquely positioned to contribute to the future of storytelling in Asia.

Eunice Chua (Based: South Korea)

Eunice Chua, a Singaporean with a rich academic grounding in Global Studies and English Literature from NUS, brings a distinct blend of cultural insight and policy curiosity to her editorial work.

Currently pursuing her Master’s in Global Affairs at Yonsei University, Eunice’s voice is informed by a passion for sustainability and inclusive communication. Moreover, her storytelling reflects a strong desire to bridge cross-cultural perspectives to shape more empathetic, actionable solutions.

One quote, in particular, has guided her journey: “To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.” These words from Oscar Wilde not only comforted her in times of failure but also motivated her to explore the unknown.

“It has shaped me to always remember that my actions — whether I think they do or not — have an impact in this world,” she reflects. That awareness now drives both her writing and her worldview, inspiring others to live with intention and meaning.

Dr. Muhammad Faisal Arshad Khan (Based: Pakistan)

Dr. Muhammad Faisal, a Pharm-D graduate, merges clinical expertise with the clarity of a skilled science communicator. His work distills dense medical data into life-saving, user-friendly narratives, anchored in global regulatory standards like the FDA and EMA.

Additionally, his writing strengthens public health outcomes by enhancing both accuracy and accessibility. His editorial mission centers on one key principle: every word should make a difference.

When asked to describe himself, he turned to poetry:

“The woods are lovely, dark, and deep,

But I have promises to keep,

And miles to go before I sleep…”

These lines by Robert Frost, once puzzling in his school days, now mirror his own journey. “The woods are still lovely. But now I know why I didn’t stop,” he reflects. “Not because I didn’t want to, but because I couldn’t afford to.” For Faisal, editorial work is not just a passion, it’s a responsibility and a promise in motion.

Ishika Dhanjal (Based: Singapore)

Ishika Dhanjal blends the rigor of academic research with the art of compelling storytelling. As a Master’s student in Communication at NUS, she draws on her psychology and media background to explore topics like workplace wellbeing and media impact.

Her editorial lens often captures the subtle interplay between culture and cognition, inviting readers to question, reflect, and reimagine.

Summing up her mission in one sharp line, Ishika shares, “I write about the story behind the scroll.” It’s a reminder that beneath every click, swipe, and share lies a deeper narrative—one that she’s intent on uncovering.

Leah Schupp López (Based: Thailand)

Leah Schupp López reports from the intersection of policy, innovation, and human resilience. Her experience with the UN in Bangkok and her dual background in journalism and international relations infuse her work with both empathy and precision.

Through New In Asia, she highlights stories that drive regional cooperation and sustainable growth across Asia’s fast-changing digital landscape.

At the heart of her work is a belief that guides every story she tells: “I believe storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have to build empathy and inspire action.” It’s a conviction that not only shapes her reporting but also fuels her mission to connect lived experiences with broader policy and innovation narratives.

Marla Lise (Based: Singapore)

Marla Lise is a global educator, eco-literary advocate, and good-faith communicator dedicated to protecting the planet through the power of language.

As the founder of The Eco Chapter, she supports individuals, educators, brands, and changemakers in aligning their purpose with people and the planet. Whether through impact storytelling, purpose-driven communications, or eco-literary workshops, she helps organizations regenerate, reeducate, and reimagine a more sustainable and just future.

Her worldview is deeply rooted in heart-centered storytelling. Two quotes that guide her work are from literary classics: “Remember that wherever your heart is, there you will find your treasure,” from The Alchemist, and “The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or touched, they are felt with the heart,” from The Little Prince. These words echo in everything she creates—stories that awaken, connect, and inspire.

Le Ha Phuong “Nora” (Based: Vietnam)

Le Ha Phuong, known as Nora, brings journalistic integrity and podcasting flair to her editorial work.

With experience ranging from The Independent SG to MoneyFM 89.3, she now produces multi-episode podcasts and feature articles exploring Southeast Asian innovation and geopolitics. Nora’s work consistently weaves expert commentary with sharp analysis, ensuring that complex issues resonate with clarity and depth.

As she puts it, “Not all who wander are lost – some of us are just storytellers, making sense as we go.” This quote captures her approach perfectly: observant, reflective, and committed to shaping narratives from the world around her, much like the mission of an editorial fellow.

Shahnazavira Kanahaya Putri Humairo (Based: Indonesia)

Shahnaz is an International Relations student whose love for writing extends well beyond the classroom. From internships to research assistantships, she has navigated topics across business, empowerment, and culture. Joining New In Asia represents her drive to learn from challenges, contribute fresh perspectives, and build stories that resonate with readers from all walks of life.

Reflecting on her journey, she shares, “I used to feel like I had to take on many roles in order to grow. But it turned out that just one right choice like becoming an Editorial Fellow at New in Asia was enough to truly open up my path.” Her words reflect a quiet confidence and clarity of purpose that now guide her storytelling.

Theng Min Yee (Based: Singapore)

Min Yee combines literary finesse with an analytical edge. As an editorial fellow and current Assistant Editor, she champions stories that dissect how innovation transforms business in Asia.

With a background in English Literature and publishing, she navigates complex topics with thoughtfulness and adaptability. Min Yee reports on tech and produces educational tools with a clear sense of purpose and curiosity.

Her approach to growth is grounded in personal courage. As she puts it, “Do one thing every day that scares you.” It’s a mantra she turns to when nerves hit — not because she seeks fear, but because she embraces challenge as a path to learning.

That mindset, she says, has helped her stay open, motivated, and ready to try something new, even on the harder days.

Gong Meng Lian (Based: Singapore)

Meng Lian is a Business student at the National University of Singapore who merges analytical thinking with brand creativity.

With hands-on experience in marketing, private equity, and risk management, she’s no stranger to the fast-moving world of startups and venture capital. Moreover, her leadership in youth organizations highlights a deep commitment to social and educational equity.

As she puts it, “To me, creativity is about crafting stories that turn products into purpose, and ideas into value.” This philosophy guides her editorial lens at NewInAsia, where she aims to spotlight early-stage founders and explore how mission-driven branding fuels meaningful change.

Final Thoughts: Fresh Perspectives, Lasting Impact

As Asia continues to evolve at a remarkable pace, so too must the stories we tell about it. The 2025 Editorial Fellows at NewInAsia bring more than just skill—they bring a mindset rooted in empathy, inquiry, and global citizenship.

Each fellow adds a fresh perspective to our newsroom, uncovering insights that challenge assumptions and deepen our understanding of the region.

Their work this year will not only shape conversations but also lay the groundwork for more inclusive, actionable journalism. We’re excited to watch their stories unfold—and we invite you to read, share, and engage as these emerging voices help us imagine a more connected, thoughtful Asia.

Read the Chinese article here, or listen to the podcast here.

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