Bouncing back to help others

Women's Legal Service Queensland
Inspirational. Tenacious. Charismatic.

Elena Gosse survived family violence as a child, moved from Russia to Australia, learned a new language, is a parent of two daughters (one of whom has a disability), gained a second university degree as a non-native English speaker and co-owner of her family's thriving swimming pool water disinfection company.

Elena is also a loyal supporter of Women's Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ), which provides legal and welfare assistance to women and children escaping domestic and family violence.

Elena is a sought-after speaker and shares her story and message that domestic violence does not choose age, colour, sexual orientation, status or profession, and neither does it have a gender.

In 2016, and again in 2019, Elena swapped the boardroom for the dance floor as part of Dancing CEOs, an event which raises awareness and funds for WLSQ.

She has raised over $120,000 for WLSQ and continues to raise funds for the organisation.

"Through my authenticity, strength, vulnerability and self-belief, I have overcome significant challenges to be a leader, successful businesswoman and family violence survivor," Elena says.

"I try to encourage those who may be perpetrators of violence, both men and women, to connect with their feelings and open up to loved ones or a counsellor before it is too late."

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation. WLSQ will use its grant to boost its call centre capacity and help more women.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here