Fast 5 with Executive Director of IEE, Lynn Erkens

 How did you hear about SSE? What attracted you to the organisation?  

After completing my International Law Master in Seoul, I embarked on a solo travel tour and landed in Australia. Within three months, I met the then-CEO who was setting up SSE. Fast forward 7 years, and here I am, leading our Innovation, Enterprise and Engagement team, and being part of a mission that makes me excited to get out of bed each morning. I would not have it any other way. 

Personally, I strongly believe in the transformative nature of education. It is a catalyst for meaningful change. Working closely with historically underserved and underrepresented communities to uplift their entrepreneurial capability and develop pathways to self-employment creates hope, meaning, and freedom for them, their families, and their local communities.  

It is an honour to be part of this movement and help Australia, as a nation, shift the dial in creating prosperity for all. 

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received, personally or professionally? 

The best advice I have received is a cosmic reality check – “your life is your responsibility”. There is only one person and one person alone over whom you have control in this life. You are in control of your happiness, your fulfilment, your career, your relationships, and your choices.  

Life is too short for a passive role. Instead of talking about wishes and dreams, do things that scare you, pivot and find out what’s on the other side. 

What do you do to unwind after a long day? 

I head to the spin studio. Cycling away stress to great music is like therapy. It empties my brain, is good for my body and gives me energy. I always walk out on a high with more energy than I came in with.   

If you could have a superpower, what would it be and why? 
 
The ability to control time – slow down, speed up, stop, rewind or loop it! Slow it down to fully absorb that book, or better mitigate in a time of crisis, or have that endless deep sleep you craved for; stop it to enjoy the small joys; or rewind to redo that special trip with loved ones and sink into the joy that is so precious.  

Bonus round! 

• Beach or mountain escape? Beach 
• Music or podcasts? Both every single day  
• Early mornings or late nights? Early mornings 
• Cats or dogs? Dogs are the best 
• Big or small gathering? Small and intimate gatherings for deep conversations 
• Summer or winter? Summer; if I chose winter, I would have stayed in Holland (my home country) 
• Horror or comedy? No nightmares, please, and thank you. Only good laughs!  

• Walk slow or fast? Fast walker here; life’s too short to stroll  
• Rice or noodles? Pasta! 
• Reading the book or seeing the movie? Reading; addicted to learning new things 
• Writing or typing? Writing enhances cognitive engagement and increases our comprehension and retention of information, promoting a deeper connection to our goals and the information we transcribe. I am transitioning to writing! 

Visit  Lynn’s SSE Team bio.