From a young age, Phoebe knew she wanted to build a career around creativity.
“I watched someone close to me work in this industry since I was little, and always knew from seeing them do it, that I wanted to do something where I got to be creative in my job everyday.”
Phoebe went on to complete a Bachelor of Arts, double majoring in Film and Media Studies with a minor in Art History. At first, she was set on working in film (still is, to be honest), but after graduating, she realised she wanted something more fast-paced - something that would let her combine her creativity with a natural knack for persuasion and communication. That’s when advertising clicked for her.
Media Design School felt like the perfect next step. It stood out because it wasn’t just about learning theory - it was about getting hands-on, real-world experience while studying. The environment was intense, but it was exactly what she needed to prepare for the demands of the industry. Through the Creative Advertising programme, she had the opportunity to be mentored by some incredible people already working in the field. She also managed to find an amazing creative partner to build a portfolio with - something that proved invaluable when it came time to break into the industry.
Phoebe lent her creative touch to Puhoi Valley’s cheeky ‘A little bit naughty’ campaign at DDB Aotearoa – celebrating indulgence and rule-breaking in the most delicious way.
Now, she gets to spend her days dreaming up fun, quirky, sometimes heartfelt ideas for clients - and honestly, she loves it! One of the most surprising (and rewarding) parts of the job has been the relationships. The people you work with quickly start to feel like family.
There’s a real sense of community in the industry, and the best creatives she knows are the ones who show up as their full, authentic selves every day. That openness not only makes the work better - it makes the whole experience more meaningful.
Looking back, MDS taught Phoebe some of the most important lessons she still carries with her: how to take feedback, how to keep a thick skin, and how to never lose your sense of humour. Oh - and what an insight actually is (which, yes, turns out to be pretty important).
There’s still more Phoebe wants to do! Writing, selling, and making a film is high on the list. But in the meantime, she’d tell anyone thinking about getting into advertising this: it’s a confidence game. You’ll face rejection, and you’ll hear "no" a lot - but the secret is not letting it get to you. Keep creating, keep going, and trust that great ideas come from within. And if you’re stuck on a concept? Don’t overthink it. Seriously - don’t. And maybe, just maybe… make it a little silly.
Phoebe helped deliver a slice of home to homesick Kiwis abroad in Vogel’s quirky ‘Toastcards’ campaign, created via DDB Aotearoa.
