In this episode of The Kitchen Think, I’m joined by Alwyn Hunt, co-founder of The Rookies, a global community helping emerging creatives explore pathways into games, filmmaking, animation, design and other creative industries.

We explore what happens when a young person loves playing games and wants to learn how to make one? Or watches a film and wonders what it would be like to create its characters and visual effects? Alwyn explains how The Rookies connects students with learning resources, a community of peers and feedback from industry professionals.

We discuss what teachers can do when a student’s interest in 3D art or game development goes beyond their own expertise, and how parents can better understand the careers available in these fields. We also talk about Alwyn’s work in visual effects, the creative opportunities available here in Australia, and how AI is changing industry workflows.

Throughout the conversation, Alwyn makes a compelling case for staying curious and developing the creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking that young people will need as these industries evolve. With the first Rookies Schools Week coming up in October 2026, this conversation is a timely invitation to help young creatives see where their interests could take them.

Explore The Rookies and Rookies Schools Week at https://www.therookies.co/

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