Lisa Pellegrino

If you’ve lived in Darwin for some time, it is likely you’ve come across the effervescent and dynamic Lisa Pellegrino.

Lisa is a storyteller, actress, performer and content maker, and most importantly mum to 3-year-old Layla who she shares with partner Genevieve.

Here’s 10 minutes with Lisa …

What brought you back to the Territory?

The land, the people & our families. There is a beauty & calmness here that calls you back. Larrakia country is stunning. So many of our family & friends live in Darwin so coming back is coming home.

Favourite part of the NT?

Nature, culture & the open minded, relaxed attitude of Territorians.

Favourite restaurant or cafe?

At the moment Hot Tamale. We love bringing our family & friends together to eat so it’s perfect - with big tables, open spaces, great food & a casual feel that means friends walking past are comfortable to come in & crash the party. The more the merrier!

Dry Season or Wet?

Wet! Definitely the Wet season. I love the warm rain & the lightening storms. There’s an electricity in the air that is exciting & invigorating.

What do you do when everything’s feels overwhelming?

Talk to my family & listen to overly dramatic sad music! For some reason the over the top music calms me & helps put things into perspective.

Advice to your 20-year-old self?

Put energy into the things you are passionate about & surround yourself with supportive people. Oh yeah.. and an asymmetrical haircut does not suit you!

Best advice for a young woman wanting to get into broadcasting/media?

Take the opportunities that come your way. If there aren’t any make calls to the people you want to work with, send them emails, talk to them & let them know how eager you are. Also, make your own content and learn things as you go. Most of all - volunteer if you can. My career started in community radio where I volunteered for years. Even today, I still sometimes volunteer on projects and events. It’s great to be a part of something, to learn on the job & to meet people.

What do you wish for most for your daughter?

I wish for her to be strong in herself, her family & her culture. I want her to know she is loved unconditionally & that we will protect her with all that we can. I wish for her to be kind and fearless, considerate & strong, empathetic & confident. Lastly, I want her to live with a passion and care for people, country & life.