ABOUT
Kia ora! I'm an anthropologist with more than 15 years of experience across education, local government, and community based organisations, translating deep insights into practical solutions.
WHAT I BRING
From ethnographic research and human‑centred design, to curriculum development, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and big‑picture strategy, I help organisations create real impact.
who i work with
From UX researchers to L&D teams, from councils to universities, I work with people who value insight, clarity, and action.
Contact
I'd love to hear from you. I welcome questions, collaboration, and good conversations!
About
Kia ora and welcome. My name is Emma McGuirk, I'm an ethnographer, researcher, learning designer, and facilitator, passionate about helping organisations to make meaningful change.With a PhD in social anthropology and a Cambridge CELTA, my career spans universities, councils, and community organisations in New Zealand, Japan, and China. I have designed national qualifications, co‑designed projects with Māori cultural advisors, delivered civic education workshops to secondary students, facilitated diversity and inclusion programs, and taught ethnographic research methods at postgraduate level.At the heart of all my work is a commitment to human‑centred design and genuine engagement. I listen deeply, map complex systems, and translate insights into clear, workable strategies. My projects share a common thread of helping people to grow, learn, and connect.I am currently based in Aotearoa New Zealand. I am available for short‑term contracts in:✔ UX research and service design
✔ Learning and development
✔ Organisational development and culture‑building
✔ Community research and engagement
✔ Higher education curriculum designIf your organisation values insight, clarity, and meaningful impact, I would love to hear from you.
What I bring
Research expertise – PhD in Social Anthropology, deep experience in ethnographic methods, stakeholder consultation, and human‑centred design.Learning and development skills – Cambridge CELTA certified, led workshops, built curricula, and facilitated growth for students and professionals in New Zealand, Japan, and China.Instructional and program design – Instructional Designer for national qualifications; experienced in building learning journeys that stick.Community engagement and inclusion – Delivered diversity, equity, and inclusion education and built trust with under‑served communities through co‑design and consultation.Strategic thinking – Skilled at connecting big‑picture goals with practical actions, reporting outcomes clearly to stakeholders and leaders.
Who I work with
Learning & Development teams looking for engaging program design, facilitation, and evaluation.UX and Service Design teams needing ethnographic research skills and human‑centred insight.Organisational Development and HR teams wanting culture‑building initiatives, leadership programs, or change management support.Universities and education providers seeking experienced teaching fellows and academic developers.Community and inclusion teams committed to equity, belonging, and social impact.
Let's connect
Whether you’ve got a question, an idea, or want to explore how we might work together, drop me a message here: