Meet The Mates - Donna Gonsalves
Welcome back to our “Meet Our Mates” series, where we introduce you to the incredible individuals behind Hey Mate’s clinical team. This week, we’re shining the spotlight on Donna! With a rich background spanning radio, TV, and film distribution, our counsellor brings firsthand insight into the creative world and a deep passion for supporting the mental and emotional wellbeing of those who work within it. She blends industry experience with compassionate guidance to help creatives find balance, resilience, and meaningful joy in their work and lives.
What is your position at Hey Mate / Mate Studio?
I am a Counsellor
Could you share some highlights from your creative industry experience before joining Hey Mate?
In the early days of my career, I found myself in radio, producing a breakfast show and learning firsthand the lively pace and unpredictability of live creative work. Later, I moved into TV and film distribution, where I had the joy of guiding a team of gifted creatives in production and digital distribution. Those experiences gave me a gentle but lasting appreciation for both the magic and the challenges that come with creative collaboration.
Which aspect of your work at Hey Mate ignites your passion, and what makes it so meaningful to you?
For me, being part of Hey Mate brings together two passions that are close to my heart: supporting mental and emotional health and staying deeply connected to the creative community. After spending more than 15 years experiencing the highs and lows of the industry myself, I feel it’s a true privilege to give back—to walk alongside others as they navigate both the challenges and the triumphs of creative work and everyday life. My hope is to help people discover balance, build resilience, and find genuine joy in what they do and who they are.
If you could champion one change in the creative industry, what would it be and how would it make a difference?
It would be to gently open the door to honest conversations about mental health and wellbeing. Too often, creatives feel the need to carry exhaustion, anxiety, or self-doubt quietly, believing they must keep going no matter the cost. I’d love to see a culture shift where rest is honoured, psychological safety is embraced, and open dialogue on mental health is welcomed. When wellbeing is valued, we lighten the burden of burnout, nurture careers that can truly endure, and open space for creativity to flourish—without requiring anyone to compromise their health in the process.
Everyone has a story; what’s a quirky or unexpected chapter / fact from yours?
My first job in radio was as a ‘Black Thunder driver’ on the weekends when I was just out of school. My job was to drive to locations around town handing out freebies like fresh bread, cans of coke and tickets to the movies. I loved doing the on-air crosses back to the radio station and cruising around town meeting people who were always happy to see me. I mean, who doesn’t like getting freebies?!
Reflecting on the guidance you’ve received over the years, which piece of advice stands out and continues to influence you today?
One mentor once told me: “The work you do is valuable, but it’s not worth sacrificing your wellbeing for.” That advice has stayed with me. It reminds me that protecting your mental health isn’t a weakness, it’s the foundation for sustainable creativity and a fulfilling life.
