Tessa is a creative, inquisitive and rational problem-solver, who strives to bring an inclusive and empathetic approach to the human-centred design process. Hailing from a background in Social Anthropology and Marketing, she is well equipped to delve into the intricacies of human experience as well as explore how these experiences, behaviours, and beliefs feed into broader cultural and social landscapes. More specifically, she is interested in how cultural and belief systems may influence positive and meaningful relationships with the natural environment, and how these relationships contribute to individual and societal wellbeing.
As a business designer at ThinkPlace, Tessa has applied her communication, research, and analysis skills to a series of different projects including: content development and delivery of design thinking materials and workshops to Librarians for State Libraries Victoria; a community engagement framework for Norfolk Island; a visual presentation of stakeholder collaboration within the Forestry sector; and country risk assessment materials for ThinkPlacers abroad. Most recently she has been involved as a researcher looking at behaviours and attitudes around land usage for the Department of Environment, Land, Water, and Planning.
Alongside study in Social Anthropology and Marketing, Tessa’s pathway to ThinkPlace has involved building a community of sustainability-minded change-makers at the University of Auckland, applying ethnographic and analysis skills as a Junior Anthropologist for Athletics Auckland, and developing research, design, and communication skills as a storyteller for an impact-focused marketing/communications organisation. Tessa’s experiences highlight a zeal for driving meaningful and impactful outcomes for both people and the planet.
