Caitlin Taylor, a marketing student passionate about design and social impact, recently attended the Marketing Association’s Marketing That Matters conference. Drawn by a stellar lineup of speakers, Caitlin reached out to MA and received a complimentary ticket in exchange for photographing the event.

Her experience was amazing, as she connected with key figures like Tanmay, the founder of TrueStock, and listened to captivating presentations that motivated her to make a difference in the marketing world.

Please continue reading to discover Caitlin's unforgettable experience and the insights she gained.

"Thursday marked an unforgettable experience for me as I had the privilege to attend the MA’s Marketing That Matters conference as a student. The day was nothing short of amazing!

I was initially drawn to the event when I saw speakers talking about social media, AI and social marketing – all areas I’m deeply passionate about as a marketing student with a keen interest in design and social impact. Eager to soak up the insights from the great lineup of speakers, I took a chance and reached out to MA, expressing my interest in attending as a student or volunteering. To my surprise, they not only responded but also offered me a complimentary ticket in exchange for capturing photos of the event. So of course I jumped at the opportunity!

It had been a little while since I had used my camera but thankfully my day started with a chat with Tanmay who was running the TrueStock stall. He kindly helped this rookie get her camera settings right for the day (truly a hero) and I learned that he was the founder of TrueStock, a company with a mission to provide stock photos representing the diversity of New Zealand, an awesome business! 

As guests streamed in I took photos and then the team from MA welcomed me at their table as the event began. I got to meet the team behind the conference and I saw just how much planning had gone into the event. Their efforts certainly paid off, as the event was amazing. Every single speaker had something interesting to share,leaving me constantly inspired and thinking, “I want to do that!” or “I want to be like that!”

Some standout moments for me include Clint Bratton's account of Proximity's campaign, which garnered so much attention it even raised government security concerns; Kātene Durie-Doherty's ingenious strategies at Motion Sickness to engage underrepresented communities, encouraging them to "rep their suburb" in boosting Census participation in Tāmaki Makaurau; Young Shand’s Scott Maddox shared the emotionally charged ad which sparked a shift in attitudes towards blood donation; and Lisa Campbell from Horowhenua District Council and the authentic account of how she has built up Horowhenua as a destination spot. Beyond her work, I admired her being so real and genuine when she spoke. I’d love to be a leader like her one day. 

Reflecting on the day, my only regret is not taking more notes!

I would like to extend my gratitude to the team from MA for giving me the opportunity to listen to gain so many insights from these remarkable marketers who are driving impactful campaigns. Their stories have left me feeling inspired towards a career in marketing that truly matters.

Thanks MA! "

Source: Caitlin Taylor, 27 May 2024