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What's the twist, you ask? Well, that's me!
Hi, I'm Penelope Twist – a proud Wollongong local with a lifelong connection to the Illawarra and South Coast, raised in a family of small business owners. My roots are deeply grounded in community, creativity, connection and communication.
I’m the founder of Authentic Innovation – a digital solutions business that brings together my passion for people, creativity, and technology. I support small businesses, creatives, and community organisations with smart, custom digital design and digital tools – including systems setup, process automation, AI-powered systems, graphic design, website design, video and content production, and strategic digital marketing. I love helping people work smarter, not harder.
I’ve had a love of technology since I first sat in front of a computer in Year 7 (many decades ago now!), and that spark never left. As an autodidact – a passionate self-learner – I’ve spent over 20 years exploring the worlds of graphic design, photography, video and content production and technology solutions. What began as a creative outlet has evolved into a career and business built on purpose, innovation, and heart.
With a professional background spanning technology solutions, customer service, community engagement, and strategic communications, I’ve spent decades helping people and organisations solve problems, communicate effectively, and thrive. From project management and systems implementation to voiceovers, video production and marketing campaigns – my work is all about bringing ideas to life with clarity and authenticity.
AI is especially exciting to me – not just for what it can do, but for how it empowers people. I’m passionate about helping others overcome fear and uncertainty around AI and discover how it can help bring your ideas to life. Whether you’re looking to free up your time, enhance your creativity, or streamline your business, I’m here to help make it easier and more enjoyable. I believe in working with purpose, and achieving a lot, without burning out.
Creativity runs through everything I do. I’m a musician, videographer, CASA-accredited drone operator, and community volunteer. I’ve performed with The Conchords and the Curious Rendition Orchestra (CROW), performed and volunteered at events including the Illawarra Folk Festival, Honk!Oz, KidsFest Shellharbour and organised national skydiving events. As someone who’s spent years jumping out of planes, I don’t fear much – and I love encouraging others to take bold leaps too.
My mission is to support and celebrate local creativity, foster positive business culture, and help people feel empowered by technology. Whether I’m building digital systems, crafting content, or performing music, I’m always driven by connection, curiosity, and care.
Let’s make something great together!
What's your twist? What inspires you?
You'll notice some consistent symbols in my website design. Yes I've used AI to help me come up with my designs. Has it done it all magically? No, it's a combination of AI apps and my skills to get to the end result but at the heart of it are things that inspire me, come from nature and align to my values and the way I work.
The Hummingbird
The Hummingbird
I'm really drawn to the hummingbird. They're fast and agile. They solve problems, can fly in any direction, access resources others can't, and they're always exploring. To me, that's what innovation should be: adaptable, efficient, and always looking for new ways to get to the core of a challenge. It's about finding that sweet spot, that hidden 'nectar,' and delivering real impact, no matter how complex the situation.
The Lotus Flower
The Lotus Flower
The lotus flower is a symbol of resilience and transformation. It rises from muddy waters, untouched and beautiful. For Authentic Innovation, this represents our ability to find clarity and create positive change even in complex environments. We're about transforming challenges into opportunities, and cultivating growth that is both grounded and inspiring.
You might find yourself stuck in the mud but we can help you to grow something beautiful.
The Bee
The Bee
Bees are fascinating.
They're incredibly organized, collaborative, and essential for a healthy ecosystem. They build complex structures, communicate effectively, and are masters of efficiency. For Authentic Innovation, this means focusing on structured, collaborative problem-solving that leads to sustainable, impactful results. We're about building strong foundations and working together to pollinate ideas that matter.
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