About Me
I (Erin Burneson) am a critical thinker led by curiosity and empathy, who deeply values human connection. Over the past six years of relentlessly pursuing authenticity, I discovered that three common threads have long defined my seemingly unconventional professional journey. As I tugged at them, I was intrigued to find that my desire to address humanitarian problems, to build things from the ground up, and to utilize creativity were woven into the fiber of my being. They are an intentional part of how I was designed.
Formally, I studied Global Studies in Developing States and Leadership, and have spent the past 10+ years living and learning cross-culturally while diving head-first into my passions. I explored graduate coursework in World Arts, started a non-profit, and acquired a wide range of experience in facilitation, curriculum development, andragogy, storytelling, product design & development, and serving as a catalyst to help communities use art to reach their goals. Over eight years between India and the U.S., my heart has found more than one home among communities that have challenged me and inspired growth.
In recent years, I stepped into the social development sector both in the U.S. and in India which has rekindled an interest in development work. As I accept where I have been and where I am headed, I am settling into the ways I feel uniquely equipped to create sustainable impact in the world: through creative consulting in the social development sector. Having promised myself to closely align the next thing I do with my passions and values; Studio Rachanā was born.
What sets me apart
10+ years of cross-cultural knowledge
I have 10+ years of experience learning how to communicate cross-culturally and adapt to a cultural context much different from my own. This experience fostered empathy and helped me acquire the tools to help others develop cross-cultural awareness and insight.
Connections Outside of your network
I want to help you build capacity and explore a global market. I would love to use whatever connections and resources I have to help you consider the preferences of those beyond your local context, and connect you to the international market.
Intentional Focus on Sustainably
I am committed to achieving the 17 sustainable development goals outlined by the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. I want to help you think more sustainably as you grow your venture to make a global social and environmental impact.
Collaborative learning
I believe that everyone has meaningful insight to contribute and that diversity of perspective is actually a community’s greatest strength. I am passionate about creating a safe space to explore new ideas while learning from each other’s experiences and expertise.
Grounded perspective
I find that my role on teams is often to offer perspective and keep everyone rooted in their core values. As you explore new ideas, I will help you dream big and consider the possibilities while staying tethered to the principles you have identified and are actively striving towards.
Original Ideas
I am not afraid to think or innovate outside of the box (even if that means trying something that hasn’t been done before.) I believe in doing the best you can with the knowledge that you have, and when you learn more, integrating what you have learned. Curiosity invites improvement.
Attention to Detail
Whether intending to reach a local or global market, I want to help you make your product or end user’s experience the best that it can be. I love working with artisans and craftsmen to refine a piece, iron out kinks in production, or fine-tune packaging and branding. So much of a user’s experience is in the details.
Gifted Storyteller
Who doesn’t love a good story? But so much of what makes a great story is culturally defined. I have experience researching and learning how to contextualize stories for a local cultural context and want to help you share your story in a way that is both authentic and captivates your audience.
Trauma-Informed
I carefully steward people’s pasts that may or may not be visibly impacting them in the present. I prioritize establishing physically and emotionally safe spaces that support autonomy and choice. I value collaboration, healthy boundaries, transparency, trust, and empowering others.
Junior Chamber International USA "Top Outstanding Young American" for 2024
Illinois Jaycees "Top Outstanding Young Person" for 2024.
Junior Chamber International USA "Top Outstanding Young American" for 2024 Illinois Jaycees "Top Outstanding Young Person" for 2024.
In the Media
Listen in on a recent interview I did with NPR Illinois Community Voices, highlighting my work catalyzing creativity for humanitarian and environmental impact.
What others have to say