Background
Verse Magazine: A Platform for Voices, A Launchpad for Futures
Since 2014, Verse Magazine has been UniSA’s student-led publication, produced in collaboration with the University of South Australia Student Association (USASA). Published six times a year across print and digital platforms, it has become a vibrant archive of student voices, ideas, and creativity, showcasing writing, art, photography, and multimedia contributions.
Beyond celebrating student talent, Verse provides hands-on opportunities in editorial leadership, design, content creation, and project management, nurturing the next generation of communicators, creatives, and leaders.
Recognised nationally as the 2017 Best Student Publication, the magazine continues to champion community, advocacy, and belonging, offering a space where student voices are amplified, creativity flourishes, and diverse stories are shared across UniSA’s campuses and beyond.
As Head Editor of Verse Magazine during 2024, UniSA’s flagship student publication produced in partnership with USASA, I led the creative and editorial direction of the magazine, managed and mentored a design-led editorial team from concept through to publication.
My role involved sourcing and commissioning both creative and non-creative content, procuring interviews with contributors from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, and shaping submissions to reflect the publication’s distinct brand identity, tone, and voice.
I was responsible for editorial quality control across all content, ensuring clarity, consistency, and professional publishing standards across print and digital platforms.
This work reflects my broader expertise in communication, media and leadership by combining strategic storytelling, editorial judgement, and collaborative team management to deliver purpose-driven publications that engage audiences and build community.
“I didn’t know it then, but the bold, creative forward-thinking words in publications like Verse would inspire me to forge a career in storytelling. ”
A Platform For Voices, A Launchpad For Futures.
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A Platform For Voices, A Launchpad For Futures. *
Head Editor Role
Project Strategy
Stakeholder Engagement
I implemented a targeted stakeholder engagement strategy that strengthened Verse Magazine’s credibility and reach within a not-for-profit environment, leveraging its mission as a launchpad for creative careers across print and digital platforms.
I secured industry collaborations and high-profile interviews—including partnerships with On The Record and Writers SA—to draw professional creative networks into the magazine’s initiatives.
This strategy drove a 10% increase in online submissions and forged relationships for future sponsorship and collaboration.
Communication Strategy
Led social media campaigns on Instagram and Facebook through multiple weekly posts, growing the follower base of 4.6k through tailored storytelling and visually-driven content.
Mentored and managed the Social Media Design team, overseeing proofreading, content editing, campaign concept development, and scheduling.
Enhanced audience engagement with digital cues, call-to-action links, and two-way communication strategies.
Editorial Features
Through proofreading submissions, mentoring writers and editing works for publication, I identified a need to boost creative confidence and participation.
I introduced themed writing prompts, clear guidelines, and sponsored incentives—such as Writers SA subscriptions and mentoring sessions—to guide and inspire contributors.
This approach led to an immediate rise in submissions, positive student feedback, and stronger engagement with the magazine.
Key utilised platforms: Zoho (email operations), Later.com (social media scheduling), Canva, Adobe Illustrator, ISSUU (digital magazine platform), WordPress, Google Docs, Slack, and Zoom.
Promote Verse Magazine across university programs, public events, and in-house initiatives.
Targeted a diverse domestic and international student audience, amplifying engagement, brand voice, and community connection.
Content Creation
I led sourcing and curation of content —including writing, photography, illustrations, and blogs—across print and digital platforms, ensuring content met editorial standards and campaign briefs.
I developed feature articles through interviews and storytelling, promoting USASA’s mission, student wellbeing, and over 100 clubs, events, and community initiatives.
Together with my team, I amplified student voices, showcased emerging talent, and strengthened the magazine’s role as a vibrant platform for creativity and engagement across UniSA’s six campuses and broader community.
Led and mentored design teams, overseeing content creation for 12,000 print copies and digital content, including, interactive campaigns across video, imagery, and surveys.
Responsible for proofreading, editing, and workflow management to meet strict budget guidelines and publication deadlines.
Developed and executed feature articles, interviews, and creative campaigns, amplifying student voices and engagement.