Meet the 2020 Assisters
Kirsten Twigg

Kirsten Twigg

Kirsten Twigg

Senior Copywriter

In her 14 years in advertising, Kirsten (affectionately known as Twiggy) has worked across brands in nearly every sector – FMCG, tourism, government, gaming, retail, banking and insurance, education, fashion, sport, charity and media. During this time, she’s won international, national and local awards.
Twiggy has also been a co-head of AWARD School twice and regularly tutors copywriting at QUT and lectures at AWARD School. When she’s not crafting ad copy, she’s writing children’s books, with one book published so far and three more in the works.

Career & Background

What inspired you to do what you are doing now?

In 2003, I’d just got back from spending a year in the UK/Ireland. Messing about like most 21 year olds did back then.

I had no idea what I was going to do with my life. And had never even heard of a job as copywriter. (We didn’t have Mad Men then either). I went to my first copywriting lecture and was like damn, that sounds fun. I’m going to do that. The rest is history.

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What was your journey and where are you headed in your career right now?

I’ve been a copywriter for 14 years now. Apart from my first 3 years on the sunny GC, I’ve only worked in Brisbane. I’m open to new adventures when the world calms down.

Your favourite food for thought

Books

I don’t think I’ve ever read a book to tell me what to do in my career. But you should always be informed about a few key things. It’ll help you make better choices for your career and life.

For Money – absolutely everyone should read The Barefoot Investor. It was life changing for me. I wish I’d read it earlier. Having your finances in order means you don’t have to stay in a job that doesn’t make you happy.

For Human resilience – Any Ordinary Day by Leigh Sales. You won’t believe the challenges some people face and still stand strong.

For Creativity – Hoopla, the story of Crispin, Porter & Bogusky. In my opinion, the most creative agency in the world. Way ahead of the curve.

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Podcasts / Thought Leaders

Chat 10, looks 3
Smodcast
The Teacher’s Pet

Thought leaders

Leigh Sales – No interviewer quite like her. Makes politicians squirm. Bulldog determination, intelligence that’s through the roof.

Mark Manson – you’ve probably heard of the Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck, but read Everything is F*cked, essential, insightful reading for anyone planning a career in advertising. Serious insight into the human psyche.

Paul Keating – nobody likes politicians, but this guy is a true exception. Wit, style and grace.

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What drives and inspires you

What are your core values?

  • Courage
  • Fun
  • Humour
  • Kindness
  • Loyalty
  • Respect

Who is your biggest inspiration and why?

I have a super adorable 4-year-old with an imagination that’s off the Richter. I sometimes ask him some of life’s tough questions and he often gives me a better answer than an adult.

When shit gets real and I have to knuckle down and solve a serious problem that could have negative business impact if it’s not solved, I don’t get stressed, I just think ‘do it for Jesse.’

You as a Mentor

Why have you decided to become a mentor?

I had a mentor when I was in my early 20s and it was invaluable.

What are the top 5 skills or qualities you bring to mentoring?

  • Compassionate
  • Connected
  • Direct
  • Open
  • Willing to be vulnerable

Ready to be a part of Assisterhood as a Mentee?

We are the fastest growing mentorship program in Brisbane – and we’re only just getting started! Let’s shoot for the stars – together!

JOIN THE ASSISTERHOOD