Social Change Maker Profile: Erin Hunter, MKTG Sydney

ICYMI, B&T has partnered with UnLtd over the past couple months to bring attention to some game-changing stars in the industry and their respective charity work. We’ve been profiling one of these inspirations per week – and now it’s time for another!

Last week, Gary Nissim from Indago Digital told us all about his passion for anti-bullying and children with diabilities and how he’s never been incarcerated.

And next up to the podium is Erin Hunter, 27 – account director at MKTG Sydney.

First ever job: Deli chick at Coles!

If I wasn’t doing my job, I’d be: Researching marine life on a remote island somewhere – for sure.

How I got where I am today: I have always been surrounded by a really strong support network who encourage and inspire me, from my family and friends to workmates and bosses. Someone always had my back throughout my life and career.

Causes I care about: Supporting our at risk youth, along with breaking the stigma around mental illness.

The change I’d like to see in the world and why it’s important: I think the perception of equality throughout the world has come a long way in a short period of time – but there is still a ways to go. I strongly feel that equality across all mediums is so important – all human beings reserve the right to be treated as such.

If you also believe in equality (particularly in our industry) head to B&T‘s Changing the Ratio on May 28 for a day of diversity, inclusion and the promotion of women in Australia’s advertising, marketing and media landscape.

We’ve locked in some killer speakers (including Lisa Wilkinson!) and attendees will walk away with game-changing ideas, practical tools and case studies to take back to their organisations. To be one of those attendees, grab tickets here. Now, back to Erin. 

How did you first get involved with UnLtd: The incredible fearless leaders of the MKTG network introduced us to the legends over at Unltd. Through an all agency census, there was an overwhelming passion to do our part to support Australia’s at risk youth. From there we developed our MKTG Cares platform, a platform that we are currently using to support and aid the incredible team at Mirabel Australia – a relationship forged through the team at Unltd.

I also had the opportunity to play in The Big Clash – where I was entirely useless on the bat, but somehow managed to bowl someone out by basically rolling the ball along the ground. Winning! We represented The Be Centre – which was an incredibly awarding experience.

The charity projects I’m currently working on: Currently I am working on a variety of fundraisers and initiatives with my amazing team at MKTG to help Mirabel raise funds to support their foundation and the incredible kindship carers with in it.

We are involved in their Mirabel Big Day Out, where we get to spend some time with the Mirabel kids, taking them to fun activities during the school holiday period, so they can come back to school and have shared the same experiences as all the others kids. We are also pulling together a May for Mirabel fundraiser to raise some much needs dollars, along with providing the kinship carers a well-deserved day out with their families to our MKTG MCG Corporate box during the AFL season.

Some social issues I’m passionate about are: As mentioned, equality is a big tick for me. This has played a big part in my passion for helping Mirabel – kids reserve the right to be kids, and equally experience the same wholesome, happy childhood that their class mates experience. Away from that, gender equality is a passion point for me.

Why I want to give back: I mentioned earlier the support network I have always had through my life. That’s why I want to give back. I want these kids to experience all I have experienced, I want them to feel like there is always someone who has their back.

The best/most rewarding volunteering experience I’ve had: A few years ago I was fortunate enough to have spent some time collaborating with some amazing people who were living with varied disabilities. They were total legends and a real inspiration. I guess that’s where my passion to help people who at times aren’t able to help themselves started.

My greatest achievement: Hiking Trolltunga in Norway! I got to spend an incredible couple of weeks hiking around Norway with my brother and friends – but hauling ourselves the 22km through a tough terrain of snow, heat, rain and wind to get to one of the most amazing spots in the world was the biggest highlight and one of my greatest achievements.

The person/company I’d like to challenge to get involved & why: Australia’s advertising network is absolutely massive, with a silly amount of connections and contacts. I would love to see every network get involved in making a difference.

My advice for someone just starting their career is: Having a positive, infectious energy is more valuable than you think. Be gutsy and proactive in your choices and never be afraid to ask questions.

If I could have one super power, that would be: Ability to breath underwater. So basically, be a mermaid. Or a great white shark. Probably a great white shark.

UnLtd is a social purpose organisation connecting the media, marketing and creative industries with charities helping children and young people at risk. Find out how you can get involved at unltd.org.au.