Sami Lukis

Name: Sami Lukis
Age: 38
Occupation: Radio & TV presenter / Journalist

Sami has presented weather on morning television, her voice has graced the airwaves and she's interviewed a slew of A list celebs. Currently a radio host on Triple M The Cage in Brisbane, a regular weather presenter on Channel Nine, a Cinebuzz Red Carpet celebrity reporter, and a columnist for B Magazine writing about single life in her hometown city of Brisbane. Whew, a lot to cram into one life and she manages to always be bubbly, full of energy and always smiling! Inspired by her work, she feels lucky every day to wake up to do what she loves.

Who was your role model/s when you were a teen?
I admired TV journalists like Jana Wendt, Liz Hayes and Jennifer Byrne, because when I was growing up, there weren't as many female role models on TV as there are now. Overseas, I've always admired Barbara Walters and Katie Couric.

How did your role model/s help you?
They encouraged me to pursue a career in television.

What role or influence do you think role models have?
They have the ability to inspire, encourage, motivate, illustrate.

What were some of the issues you faced as a teen?
The only real issue I faced as a teen was fitting everything into my day. Sport was a really important part of my life - I played water polo, netball and hockey. I was also a swimmer and a long distance runner. I was also very musical - I played clarinet, piano and organ. Plus I was involved in the school band, drama and the school social committee. And to top it all off, I was School Captain in my final year at high school.

How did you overcome these issues?
I kept myself as busy as possible - and I absolutely loved it !

What do you remember most about being a teen?
I remember having braces and the world's worst haircut in Year 12 and I felt so hideous all year ! I also remember feeling extremely lucky that my father worked in the airlines, so we were able to travel the world and experience all kinds of different cultures. That's definitely helped make me a better person.

What qualities do you think you possess that has helped you succeed in your chosen field?
Perseverance - in my industry, you can't let rejection stop you. A commitment to hard work also helps.

Outside of career success, what is it that you are most proud of?
My parents. They're still together and madly in love, after 40 fabulous years.

Do you undertake activities to help others/community?
I'm Patron for the Rehabilitation Department at the Children's Hospital at Westmead - helping children with cerebral palsy and severe spasticity. I'm also an ambassador for the National Breast Cancer Foundation of Australia.

Your advice to youths about realising their own potential...
Don't give up. You won't always win first time round. But believe in yourself and have faith in your own ability.

When it comes to how you live your life, what are the most important factors/values?
Always remember: Treat others as you'd want to be treated. And have faith that when one door closes, another will open.