Discover
The Writer
Passion in Words.
Shannon Meilak is a passionate writer whose love for the craft began in her teenage years with poetry. As she pursued Screen and Media at Swinburne University, she refined her writing skills through essays and film scripts, often centred on social issues. In her final year, while studying Film and Television, Shannon started writing film reviews—a practice she carried on after graduation, including a brief period at 'Janks Reviews'.
In 2024, she began contributing to a local newspaper, 'The Westsider,' driven by her commitment to social justice. This website, 'The Justice Journal,' was developed as a platform for Shannon to share her thought-provoking editorials, insightful reviews, and engaging essays, reflecting her unique perspective and motivation to inspire change.​
Background.
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Shannon Meilak is a passionate advocate and creative force whose life has been shaped by resilience and activism. As a queer, disabled, and neurodivergent individual, she has faced her share of challenges, including mental health struggles, bullying, harassment, and sexual assault. These experiences have only strengthened her commitment to fostering inclusivity and change within her community.
Her father migrated from Libya, arriving in Australia without speaking English, and built a life in Melbourne's West, where Shannon spent her early years. Growing up in Deer Park and attending St Peter Chanel primary school, she later moved to Keilor Lodge as a pre-teen, where she went to Catholic Regional College. She remains firmly rooted in the area, maintaining a strong commitment to Melbourne’s West.
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Shannon’s personal journey is deeply intertwined with her activism. She runs a local disability advocacy group, pushing for better inclusion and accessibility, as well as a sustainability and climate action group in Brimbank. A Vegan and Wiccan, Shannon’s values are reflected in both her lifestyle and her work, championing causes that align with her belief in compassion, environmental stewardship, and social justice.
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Through her advocacy and activism, Shannon seeks to create a more inclusive and sustainable world for all, especially marginalised communities.