Words by Lauren Eddy, Senior Copywriter, Bullfrog.
The Aunties is a program that aims to inspire, protect, connect and champion women across creative industries. Inspired by legendary creative recruiter and mentor, Esther Clerehan, they provide support and mentorship to women of all ages and backgrounds, at any stage of their life or career.
Having recently launched in Melbourne, The Aunties are looking to expand interstate and offshore next year. Until then, we’ll be serving some Auntea for women anywhere in the world to enjoy in the Mavens x Aunties limited series: ‘Mentor Like an Auntie’. You’ll hear from experienced Aunties in every discipline, sharing their wisdom, tips and tricks on how to be a great mentor to other women.
Our first Auntie is the effervescent Natalie Taylor, Executive Producer at SHERPA, and mum to Rudi & Arlo.
Nat, what’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from a mentor?
I am currently being mentored by Fiona Hardie, Chair of Hardie Grant Media and Vice President of the AIER (Australian Institute of Employment Rights). I admire her ability to balance empathy and compassion, along with the steely determination to run a successful company and build a $100m+ global business.
As a co-founder of the program, what are your hopes for The Aunties?
Coming from London, the industry there revolves around Soho, which has a built-in social scene that women starting out in advertising can access. It’s how I made some of my closest friends – discussing our work troubles over a pint. I hope The Aunties can help to build that sort of support network here. I truly believe when one of us does better, we all do better.
Your top 3 tips for a fruitful mentor conversation?
1. Preparation – encourage them to take the time to do the prep. The more they put in, the more they’ll get out.
2. Go deep – ask them to think about what they really want to know.
3. Set goals – talk about where they want to be in the future, what challenges stand in the way, and how they would like to overcome them.
About Nat Taylor
Nat began her career as a runner on film shoots, then worked her way through the ranks to become a TVC Producer after working on her first feature film with Ridley Scott.
Over her 20+ year career, she’s produced award-winning work for agencies such as Mother London and Clemenger BBDO, worked in post-production, and ran her own production companies in both London & Melbourne. Like every great producer, Nat is a genuine magician – she just makes things happen – and as part of the MADC, was a huge help in bringing The Aunties to life.
Although the industry has changed dramatically in her lifetime, Nat says the basic principles of storytelling and bringing creative to life will always be at the heart of what she does. Only, hopefully, with a bit more support for those who haven’t had much in the past.
“I have two young children, which is challenging in the ‘always on’ environment of production. I hope, through The Aunties, we can help build a more inclusive support system for mothers in our creative industries.”
Join the movement! Follow The Aunties on Instagram.
☎️ A proud Auntie: To inspire, protect and champion women and marginalised genders in creative industries.