Sophie Kesteven
Digital Producer
What’s your link to Townsville?
My family moved from Cairns to Townsville when I was 14. My mum was a pilot and my family decided to relocate south for her work. My parents – who met at the Aero Club in Townsville more than 30 years ago – still live there today.
Where are you now?
I’m working as a digital producer in Features for ABC Radio National and Audio Studios in Sydney. I’ve also previously worked with the ABC in Mackay, Townsville and Canberra.
My job involves collaborating with other journalists, presenters and producers to create digital content for online platforms. Some days I’m helping produce feature articles, other days I’m editing and shooting social videos. The house I’m living in is nestled in the heart of Surry Hills. It’s great because there’s plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants nearby..
What’s your next project?
My next project will involve producing an original online article regarding artificial intelligence. I enjoy reporting on emerging technologies and innovation is an area I’d like to tap into further in the future.
How did your time in Townsville set you up for success?
In high school, I recall sitting in a small office and speaking with a career counsellor who said: “Have you ever considered becoming a journalist?”. Defiant, I went on to study a Bachelor of Psychology instead. But after working and travelling abroad for two years, I returned to Townsville to discover my new calling – multimedia journalism. I was lucky to have supportive teachers and mentors while studying a Bachelor of Multimedia Journalism at James Cook University, one of which, Amy Forbes, even recommended me for my first job at a rural newspaper in Charters Towers. The internship I completed with ABC North Queensland also helped in opening more doorways for me. My time working in the regions has helped shape me into a better journalist today.