Almost a week ago we celebrated International Womens Day. A day to remember those who have impacted our lives for the better and champion those who have and are paving the way for equality.
Reflecting on this day, we wanted to introduce you to Elka Whalan (fka Graham), founder of Queen Hood.
With her positive attitude & vibrant personality, Elka has enjoyed a successful media career, regularly featuring on Channel 7’s Sunrise to discuss news and lifestyle topics. As well as being an inspiring MC and motivational speaker. All after representing Australia as a dual Olympian in the pool and taking home multiple medals.
Elka founded Queen Hood in 2016, out of the desire to create a community of women that supports one-another and assist’s in each-other’s success. To build an environment that fosters and facilitates becoming your most authentic and best self.
Queen Hood’s next event The Real Deal features a panel of women including Hills & West’s founder, me, Aisha Hillary-Morgan. As well as the women behind Palmaira Sandals Australia, Gemma Taylor and Jenny Sewell. We, with Elka will discuss a range of topics such as starting their own business’, motherhood, travel and more.
In the lead up to The Real Deal we’ve asked Elka a few questions about what inspires her.
Tell us a little about yourself?
I love life, faith, my family, friends, double espressos, anything orange, water and encouraging people. I’m a lover of French champagne, can’t do small talk, can do real stuff!
Why did you set up Queen Hood?
I am over the comparing of women and want more caring. To embrace and encourage the gifts and talents we all have. To make sure we have Queens in our worlds that really lift us up even when we are high, they don’t shoot us down but continue to help us all rise.
Who are some of the ‘dream team of women’ you work with?
Incredible ladies from near and far in my circle of friends. I love the older, wiser women who have been through rough patches and failed yet can give you time and talk through the lessons they have learned. Our guest speakers are always honest women with stories to share and are profound in their own individual way.
Tell us about ‘The Real Deal’?
Think sunlight, bright, dancing, laughter, coffee brewing, gifts, scrumptious food and a panel of amazing women — hello that’s you HILLS & WEST talking about business starting and the troughs and peaks we go through.
Where do you see Queen Hood taking you?
I see us Overseas !! and In Brisbane — it’s where my heart is to expand it. Last year we took it outside of Sydney, the need and appetite there was so beautiful. Our world is large and nothing beats positive messages.
Who are some of the women you find aspirational?
The ones who are often closest to you, the ones that you don’t see in the paper or in the glossy magazines, the ones who are beautifully busy helping others.
What are 5 things you can’t live without?
EW: “Water. Boring but I love this stuff! The beach, a book, my husband (he is my best friend) and my children.”
What are 3 lessons you hope to pass onto your kids?
1: Be genuine – in a world of insincerity never lose the quality of being real.
2: Have discernment – the ability to see things for what they are – this leads to wisdom.
3: Be a first rate YOU and not a second rate somebody else.
Anything else you would like to share?
SOOO Flipping excited to have you on board and hear your wise words and encouragement for a morning. That will be wonderful.
As you can read Elka is an absolute inspiration and a woman with a beautiful purpose. So blessed to be involved. Can’t wait to meet all the wonderful women on the 28th of March. Following are some more details from Queen Hood.
Big love
Aisha
“You’ve mastered your job but if you haven’t mastered yourself – you won’t move ahead.”
– Elka Whalan
Walk into a venue full of warmth, yummy treats, coffee and an array of food from 9:45am on 28th March at the beautiful @theboathousesbevents Shelly Beach – overlooking the water (so bring your costumes for after!) 🏊♀️
With real and hilarious mothers and businesswomen from the well known @palmairasandalsaustralia Jenn and Gem and the divine @hillsandwest bags and accessories by AISHA Hillary-Hillary as speakers, the morning is sure to be full of laughter and connection.
Feel free to bring your little ones as we do life together. Call up your girlfriends, mothers, wise women in your world and sneak out of work. We will be bursting with authenticity and doing life the best we can.
With great prizes and pampering packages to give away, you’re in for a treat midweek as we celebrate the incredible area you abide in. Every woman walks away with a gift bag, a full tummy, laughter in her soul, warmth in her heart. From dancing to dressing in activewear only, leaning on each other, learning about failures, setbacks, crying with laughter, talking REAL LIFE and not INSTA life!
Being joyful, positive and amazing just as YOU are! Link to tickets is in the bio #QueenHood @bio_island #bendigobank
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