My Journey and Impact

Marlena Katene is a unique and extraordinary Journalist and Author, who has overcome the challenges of being nonverbal by utilising an iPad and ABC Board to communicate.

Despite these obstacles, Marlena pursued her passion for writing and completed her Bachelor of Communication Journalism then went on to forge a successful career within the entertainment industry.
From a young age, Marlena had a deep love for music and writing, and she found a way to combine these passions to create a unique career path as an Entertainment Journalist. Through her writing, Marlena has been able to express herself and share her insights and experiences with others.
Throughout her career to date, Marlena has had the opportunity to interview some of the biggest names in music which have included Ed Sheeran, Kylie Minogue, Andrea Bocelli and Robbie Williams, as well as celebrities such as Russell Brand, Minnie Driver, and Sir Richard Branson. These interviews have allowed her to delve into the worlds of these artists and public figures to give people a different point of view and perspective on their lives.
In addition to her work as a Journalist, Marlena is also an accomplished Author. She has written three books that aim to create awareness, start conversations and bring about positive change in the community, particularly regarding disability and inclusion. Her first book ‘Dare To Be You’ was published in 2014 and explores themes of self-acceptance and embracing individuality. Her second book ‘When I Grow Up’ published in 2015 aims to inspire young readers to pursue their dreams regardless of any obstacles. Marlena's most recent book ‘My Chair’ published in 2021, casts a light on her own experiences and perspectives on disability.





