Mayrah Sonter
Master of Arts (Journalism), 2012; Bachelor of Communications, 2005
Arts and Social Sciences Award
Mayrah Sonter is a proud Wiradjuri woman who has forged a successful career as a communications specialist, events producer and journalist, driven by her passion for empowering First Nations peoples.
She is co-founder and co-Director of 33 Creative, co-founder of Indigenous Business and host of ‘The Real’ Podcast. She is also Chair of the National Aboriginal and Islander Skills Development Association and a member of the NSW Aboriginal Housing Office Board, National Indigenous Culinary Institute and Commonwealth Bank Indigenous Advisory Council.
Mayrah has a Master of Arts in Journalism (2012) and a Bachelor of Communications (2005) from UTS.
What is one key lesson you learned at UTS that is still relevant to you today?
I learned the value of relationships and working together. Some of my favourite career moments have been a result of the magic created when a talented and hardworking bunch of people work together, and the sum of their contributions is greater than what could have been achieved individually.
What motivates you to achieve your goals?
My community, my desire to create change, to make my family proud and make the world a better place. I believe that if you see something that needs changing, go change it!
What was one turning point that changed your career, your life, or both?
There have been lots of moments that have influenced my career and life trajectory – it’s hard to name just one. What I am most passionate about is creating more opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices to be heard through the media.
I recall the first time I saw an Aboriginal person on TV and how much it meant to see myself reflected in the media. It was then that I knew a career in and around communications and the media, empowering First Nations people, was the career for me.
What do you think are the most valuable skills for new graduates entering the workforce?
I think a positive, can-do attitude is so important. As are a desire to constantly improve, emotional intelligence, and cultural awareness.
What change – in your industry, community, or society at large – would you like to help create in the next ten years?
I want to help get more Indigenous voices heard, and more Indigenous stories told. The more we share our experiences and understand each other, the better the nation we will create for ourselves and the next generation. I’m also passionate about supporting the growth of the Indigenous business sector.
What did you enjoy most about your time at UTS?
The learning and the friends I made – I still have uni friends who I work with today. Being part of Jumbunna and competing in the Indigenous University Games were also highlights.
Have you had to adapt and upskill throughout your career? How?
Yes, I had to upskill to learn about business quickly when co-founding 33 Creative, an Aboriginal media, communications and events company. I did a lot of learning on the job and from my business partner, and also did the MURRA Indigenous Business Masterclass at Melbourne Business School.
What has been the proudest moment of your career?
I feel proud on a daily basis of the 33 Creative team and what we achieve together – changing hearts and minds through storytelling.
I’m also proud to be a co-founder of Indigenous Business Month, which provides a platform to celebrate Indigenous business success each October. I love creating opportunities for others and seeing the next generation step into their power.
Should you follow a carefully considered career path, or seek out the twists and turns?
A combination of both! It’s always great to have a plan, but it’s important to stay open to the twists and turns along the way.
