Why do you do it? Because creatives deserve to be well. I know first-hand the challenges our sector faces and I'm driven to create systems of care, access, and support that empower people to thrive.
What do you love about the city you live in? I live in Meanjin (Brisbane), and I love its mix of green spaces, growing arts community, and the way it still feels like a big country town in the best possible way.
Where did you go for your last holiday? I took a trip down the NSW South Coast – lots of ocean swims, quiet towns, and small bakeries. It was heaven.
What's your favourite item of clothing? A good pair of jeans, suitable for almost any occasion and can be sourced anywhere.
What was your favourite TV show when you were a kid? 'Round The Twist'. Iconic, weird, Australian, and honestly still holds up.
If you could travel back in time for a day, where would you go? Definitely back to a festival in the early 2010s – Big Day Out or Splendour would be the best.
If we were coming over to your place, what would you cook us? I am a sucker for good pasta, light salad, fresh sourdough, and something chocolatey for dessert.
What's the best lesson you've ever learned? Burnout doesn't make you better at your job. . . boundaries do.
Tell us one thing about yourself that nobody else knows. . . I would LOVE to own a bookshop one day, preferably in a small town by the beach.
Are you happy with your work/life balance? I'm getting there. Running a purpose-driven business can blur the lines, but I'm learning to rest and protect my own well-being too.
How do you define success? When your values are visible in your work, and your community feels stronger because of it. Also people actually know about Hey Mate before I mention it in conversation is pretty cool.
Aimee Davies will take part in the Managing Your Mental Health & Wellbeing presentation as part of Australian Festival Industry Conference, one of Asia Pacific's leading industry marketplaces for festival management personnel who deliver quality music, arts and culture, food and drink, ideas and sporting festivals. The 2025 event takes place in Brisbane on 8-9 September.
