I am a strong advocate for change. Design thinking has the potential to shift perceptions... to inspire, inform and empower individuals, organisations, communities and industries. This approach informs my work with The South Australian Chamber of Mines and Energy (SACOME) and CoLLECT Design.As a Creative Director and Brand Architect, I combine my passion for design strategy, storytelling and writing to inspire, educate and empower. I have a keen eye for detail and a strong sense of empathy - both essential for design thinking and strategic brand development.I've always been a visual communicator, but this was solidified during my four year Fine Arts degree. I majored in printmaking with a passion for etching - loving the fine detail and patience it required. I revelled in the company of other creatives and the study of art history fueled my inquiring mind, love of beautiful art and reading.My career started as a graphic designer and illustrator at a boutique packaging design studio, which provided the ideal launchpad. Real growth came from a graphic designer position with Independent, a national news and media group. Here, my visual communication came into its own, resulting in compelling layouts and fascinating infographics to accompany news stories, making them more accessible. I was also fortunate to lead an exceptional team of creatives. I learned to appreciate good writing; to respect words as much as the visual elements on a page. As I climbed the corporate ladder, I completed my Masters degree in Journalism the week before my daughter was born. Over 14 years spent in various areas of the business, I was privileged to work alongside and learn from some of the most brilliant journalists and content strategists in the industry.Having my own branding consultancy was certainly a career goal and relocation to South Australia made it a natural and very rewarding progression.