
Phoebe Sumpter
Business Designer
Ethnography and Community Engagement Specialist
Phoebe understands the value of approaching people and complex problems with empathy and compassion. With a background in anthropology, she brings a deep understanding of cultural contexts, human behaviour, and social systems to her work. Her strong research and critical thinking skills, combined with a creatively inclined intelligence, enable her to provide essential support for the successful execution of projects.
Phoebe has worked with Federal, NSW, and Local Government clients to design and deliver evaluations, strategies, service models, and frameworks informed by diverse research and rigorous engagement.
Her expertise in anthropology allows her to analyse social dynamics and cultural influences, ensuring that her work is contextually informed and meaningful. She effectively collaborates with clients and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds while consistently applying a trauma-informed and human-centred design approach. Phoebe is committed to conducting meaningful research that contributes positively to her clients as well as the communities and cohorts she works with. She integrates community voices into her research, ensuring that her work reflects the needs, insights, and expertise of the communities she engages with. This approach results in research and products that are not only impactful but also socially responsible.
Phoebe holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Media Studies from Macquarie University, has completed training in Trauma-Informed Research, and is currently undertaking a Diploma of Graphic Design at Billy Blue College of Design.
Work and thoughts

Lifting the Student Voice in Vocational Education and Training
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