Community Curator, Photographer and Creative Professional
Christchurch, New Zealand
This conversation was originally published in 2018 as part of the original Careering Conversations series.
We've lightly edited it for readability while preserving the original conversation and advice, and added an update on what Erica has been doing since we first spoke.
When you first meet Erica Austin, it's easy to assume she's an architect. After all, that's what she studied. But spend a little more time with her and you'll quickly realise her career has been shaped by something much broader: creating experiences that bring people together. Whether that's through community events, photography, volunteering or placemaking, Erica has consistently followed opportunities that align with her strengths and values rather than staying within the boundaries of a single profession.
Like many people, Erica didn't follow the path she imagined while she was studying. Instead, her architecture degree became the foundation for a much broader career built around creativity, curiosity and connection.
Erica also challenged the idea that we're defined by our qualifications. Degrees are valuable, but they're only one part of the picture. The skills you develop, the relationships you build and the experiences you create often become just as important as the title on your CV.
Many of the experiences that shaped Erica's career weren't carefully planned. They came from volunteering, meeting new people and being willing to put her hand up, even when she wasn't completely sure where the opportunity might lead. Rather than worrying about having the perfect career plan, she focused on building experiences and trusting that they would connect over time.
Creativity also plays a central role in how Erica approaches work. Photography became another way to tell stories and connect with people, complementing the design thinking she'd developed through architecture. Rather than seeing different interests as competing with one another, she embraced them all.
One insight came right at the end of the conversation, and it’s stayed with us since.
Erica encourages people not to define themselves by a particular career or industry. Instead, define yourself by your values, passions and strengths. Careers change. Industries evolve. But the qualities that make you uniquely you remain valuable wherever your career takes you.
Since we first spoke
Update coming soon.
What Erica taught us
Don't let your qualification become your identity. Careers evolve, opportunities appear in unexpected places and your greatest strengths often extend far beyond a single profession.
