From Melbourne to Wimbledon: a global career in sports communications

For many sports fans, stepping onto the grounds of Wimbledon is a lifelong dream. For Stephanie Edwards, a Bachelor of Communication alum, that dream became her workplace.

Choosing RMIT’s Bachelor of Communication (Public Relations) - now the Bachelor of Professional Communication - proved to be a pivotal decision for Stephanie Edwards, equipping her with career-ready skills and hands-on experience.

Reflecting on her time at RMIT, Stephanie said, “RMIT’s strong focus on practical work experience meant that by the time I graduated, I had already worked on real projects with clients, had a network with industry professionals, and completed an internship that gave me the confidence to step into the workforce.”

Stephanie Edwards at one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world: The Championships, Wimbledon.

Turning passion into a global career

As a sports enthusiast, Stephanie was always eager to work in the sector, leading her to secure an internship with Hawthorn Football Club during her final year at RMIT.

The experience was instrumental in launching her career, as she transitioned into a full-time role as a Marketing Coordinator before moving into the Communications team – a total of six years with the Australian rules football club based in the state of Victoria.

Stephanie’s experience also extended to major sporting events in the state, including working with the Media Team at the Australian Open as well as taking on a role at Gymnastics Victoria.

The experience with sports organisations in Melbourne not only strengthened Stephanie’s interest in sports but also led her to secure a role over 16,000 kilometres away at The All England Lawn Tennis Club in London, U.K, where she has been working as a Communications Manager for one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world: The Championships, Wimbledon.

Stephanie said she first visited Wimbledon in 2018 as a tourist and remembers being in awe during her time there.

“To now be working behind the scenes at one of the world’s most iconic sporting organisations is incredibly special,” she said.

Setting a strong foundation at RMIT

Beyond her studies, Stephanie actively participated in student life, serving as the President of the RMIT Cheerleading Club, which served as an opportunity to not only meet with fellow students but also sharpen her communication, teamwork and leadership skills.

“Being involved with the Cheerleading Club truly enhanced my experience at RMIT altogether, so I would strongly encourage any student to join a club outside of their studies as you never know what skills you will learn and who you might meet in your own or other courses,” Stephanie added.

Aspiring for a global career

Stephanie’s journey from RMIT to Wimbledon offers insights for students aspiring to build global careers.

“Take every opportunity to gain practical experience, whether it’s through internships, student clubs, or industry projects,” Stephanie said.

“RMIT gives you so many chances to apply what you’re learning in real-world settings and that’s what employers look for.

“Speaking from my own story, each experience helped me grow and prepared me for my next big move”, she shared.

Nearly a decade after graduating, Stephanie remains deeply connected to the RMIT alumni community.

As one of the leaders of the RMIT Alumni UK Chapter, which was launched in September 2023, she plays a vital role in fostering a network of alumni to stay connected, share insights, support each other and continue strengthening RMIT’s global presence.

Story: Huong Nguyen

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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