Would-be Asian journalists had their chance to network with successful writers and broadcasters at a busy print media event.

Practical advice to help get their foot on the career ladder was the name of the game for the Dynamic Asian Women Network.

Guests heard from a panel of speakers who talked about their careers and offered practical help and guidance, relevant to anyone who wants to get into the industry.

Speakers included Eastern Eye editor Amar Singh, who said: "Don't be afraid to run around for people. That's how I started out as a runner for a TV company. Be flexible! I originally wanted to work in radio but ended up in print and am happy in my current position."

Sarwar Ahmed (pictured), publisher of Asiana magazine said: "Ethnic media is an ideal stepping stone for Asians wanting to get into mainstream. From my 14 years as a publisher I can reel off a list of names of writers who have used my publications as a springboard for their careers."

Evening Standard contributor Gita Mendis said: "From my experience, the newspaper industry is largely run by middle-aged white men and tends to view Asian women who work in their newsrooms in one dimensional ways. But at the end of the day all that matters is whether you are a good journalist."

And Robina Dam, who writes for the Daily Mail, added: "Nothing can replace genuine passion. If you do something you believe in it makes it fun and more of a privilege. Take a gamble and it will pay off and it doesn't matter what experience you gain the skills will remain the same regardless of where you worked."

Parminder Vir, an executive producer and diversity advisor to the chief executive of Carlton Television - and also the co-founder of DAWN, chaired the event.

She said: "The aim of the evening was to entertain, educate, empower and have fun."

The event offered guests a chance to network after the main session, giving students, trainees and journalism beginners and hopefuls an insight into the diversity of career options available.

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