About
Qin Qin (formerly Lisa Qin) is an award-winning author and speaker exploring themes of identity, culture, and the beauty of the non-linear path.

Striving to be ‘good' daughter, migrant and student, by 29 Qin Qin was an ex-lawyer, a Harvard graduate with four degrees working overseas for UNICEF – and a miserable overachiever.
After one too many crises, Qin Qin chose to question the script, a journey she explores in her debut memoir, Model Minority Gone Rogue. It’s the first title published under Benjamin Law’s book scouting partnership with Hachette.
Qin Qin was named a 40 under 40: Most Influential Asian Australian. She is now a librarian and regular interviewer/speaker. She lives in Canberra with her partner James and dog Oprah and her life mission is to live consciously on her own terms.
For updates and reflections, visit or subscribe to her Substack newsletter.
Writing
I wrote the memoir Model Minority Gone Rogue and have been featured in PEN Sydney, The Australian, SBS and other outlets.
Stories can both imprison and liberate us. Limiting beliefs about who we are can shackle us to an unfulfilling life. I needed to write the story that set me more free from the constraints of inherited narratives.
Writing highlights include:
- Shortlisted for Penguin Books Australia Write It Fellowship 2022
- Invited residency at the Varuna The National Writers House 2023, highly commended for the Varuna Residential Fellowships
View my full list of writing pieces [page forthcoming].
"How do I exit the program of chasing gold stars and being an obedient success machine? It’s through reading, writing and seeking words and stories that nourish and give me hope in becoming more of who I truly am, not what others expect of me. That’s an essential part of growing up and becoming whole."
Speaking
I am an experienced speaker and interviewer. As a storyteller and former teacher, I love engaging audiences with diverse expertise in drawing out answers from others.
I have a regular segment on ABC Radio Canberra, Chinwag with Qin Qin on Afternoons with Alice Matthews.

Qin Qin’s genuine passion and deep understanding encouraged us all to reflect, learn, and take meaningful action. It was a memorable experience for our CALD employees and allies. The techniques she shared on improving cross-cultural engagement resonated with all staff. Qin Qin was a pleasure to work with – passionate, professional, and highly knowledgeable." - NSW DEPT OF EDUCATION, event organiser

Speaking highlights include:
- Invited graduation speaker at the Australian National University
- Opening gala at the OzAsia festival
- Keynote at Harvard Model United Nations (1,000+ delegates)
- Panellist on burnout for Women in Media at the National Press Club
- Australian Embassy in Beijing alumni event on my Australia-China story
View my full list of speaking engagements and photos [page forthcoming].
Faciliating/teaching
I have begun to teach memoir writing. I have also led women's circles, loving-kindness groups, soulcare sessions, and workshops on spiritual nourishment.
In holding different spaces, I draw upon my diverse skillset, a committed long-term meditation practice, and the wide variety of approaches I’ve studied in my own journey (eg yogic practices, human development, and trauma recovery). I’m grateful to all my teachers, who include yoga masters, developmental psychologists, and Mother Nature.
Contact Me
Please get in touch to say hello or book me for an event: