At Engage + Empower, strong communication starts with curiosity. The best teams are built from a mix of experience, fresh perspectives, and a genuine desire to learn. That blend is exactly what makes our Communications Coordinator, Ben Beattie, such a great fit for the work we do.
Ben is early in his communications career, but he’s already packed a lot into his story. He’s travelled across Asia, Australia, and Fiji, coached and competed in multiple sports, and built community wherever he goes. Now he’s turning his attention to communications and digital storytelling, bringing energy, empathy, and a keen sense of strategy to the team.
We sat down to talk about what he’s learning, how travel has shaped his perspective, and where he hopes to take his skills next.
Erin: You’ve had some incredible travel experiences already. What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve taken away from spending time in different countries?
Ben: I’ve learned how different it is everywhere and how not to take things for granted, knowing that access and opportunity look very different depending on where you are.
Erin: You’re also deeply involved in sports, both playing and coaching. What has being part of that world taught you about teamwork and communication?
Ben: Being part of a team has taught me that we are all one. Everyone works together, and if someone is falling behind, the others help and try to pick up the slack/give a hand. I’ve also learned that you have to work together to complete tasks on time (like in a game) and stick to set deadlines, as they won’t change.
Erin: You’re joining us as a Communications Coordinator, focusing on social media management. What do you find most interesting about connecting with people and communities online?
Ben: I really enjoy meeting new people and hearing their life stories. Online, there are many opportunities to spread messages and reach many more people, which I’m very eager to do.
Erin: You’ve said that one of your goals is to head back to school for cybersecurity in 2026. That’s a really exciting path. How do you see communication skills helping you in that next chapter?
Ben: I think communication is one of those skills that helps no matter what field you’re in. In cybersecurity, it’s not just about tech; it’s about people. Being able to explain complex stuff in a way others understand, or ask the right questions, makes everything easier. I think that gives me a bit of a head start going into the program.
Erin: You’re still early in your career, but you’ve already seen a lot of different places, teams, and perspectives. What advice would you give to other young professionals just starting out?
Ben: To just get started. The best advice is that anything is better than nothing, just do little bits at a time when learning and do it well.
Ben brings curiosity, focus, and a willingness to learn that make every project better. His global perspective and passion for connection are helping us bring new energy to our digital channels, and his eye for detail is already making an impact.
If you’d like to collaborate with Ben and the Engage + Empower team on social media strategy, content management, or digital storytelling, we’d love to connect. Reach out anytime through our contact page.
