Elka Graham

Name: Elka Graham
Age: 26
Occupation: Media (former dual Olympic swimmer Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004)

She's energetic, lively and full of zest. A medal-winning Olympian turned media personality, Elka loves life and sees it being all about relationships, meeting people and being passionate - the essential elements to bring out the best in a person.

Two years ago, I retired from swimming after a string of achievements; I was blessed to part of the Australian Swimming Team for seven years where I have medals from the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, World Championships and other major International competitions.

I love life and believe that it is all about relationships, meeting people and being passionate to bring out the best in every person. But above all, I have a solid foundation of who I am coupled with a loving family and an amazing fiancé.

Who was your role model/s when you were a teen?
I never really had one specific person. I saw a lot of goodness in a few people and rolled them into one. I would choose attributes that I wanted to instil in my character.

How did your role model/s help you?
They formed qualities I admired, high standards, strong morals and a sense of fun and compassion.

What role or influence do you think role models have?
I believe a role model is a person who has in their mind "Be someone others admire", but most importantly "Be someone you admire", & if they can think of that every morning when they wake up, their on a good start!!

What were some of the issues you faced as a teen?
Being bullied in school wasn't the nicest of memories. I was also really late to develop and was very tall and skinny which meant I was often taller than the boys in my year and so I faced a lot of name-calling. Also, I remember always being embarrassed about how long my legs were and how much height I had.

How do you overcome these issues?
By realising that just because I was 'different" didn't mean it was wrong, I started working out who my real friends were, and that change was good for people with strong minds and who were willing to take a chance. Those who knocked you down were often the ones too scared to try themselves. I have a great relationship with God and always knew the plans he had for me.

What do you remember most about being a teen?
Choosing to take my own path, believing in myself, and never doubting my ability. I loved being involved in many sports, going to the movies with girlfriends, school dances and having fun - always!!!

What qualities do you think you possess that have helped you succeed in your chosen field?
The right attitude, effort and persistence….Believing in your ability. Big dreams and positivity.

Outside of career success, what is it that you are most proud of?
The life I lead. Also what I believe in, the people who have helped me and the people I have helped. The cheery "Hello" to a stranger, answering the phone with a smile on your face and making a difference. Living life and loving - there are no greater qualities than these.

Do you undertake activities to help others/community?
I have charities that I am passionate about and know the people behind them personally which makes it even more special. The Nelune Cancer Foundation, Heart foundation, Compassio and breast cancer. All of these and more can be found on my website www.elkagraham.com (under charities).

Your advice to youths about realising their own potential...
Never compare yourself to anyone. Everyone has their own rate of growth and improvement, but each and every one of you have a special gift. Believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in your dreams, not dream killers.

When it comes to how you live your life, what are the most important factors/values?
Loving yourself, loving each other, believing in something bigger than yourself, fill the world with kindness, love your enemies, treat everyone the way you would want, go beyond expectations, promise and over deliver, give cheerfully, listen, listen , listen, be generous, spontaneous and loyal .

Why do you think you make a good role model?
Everyone can be a role model. I like to be someone others admire and someone you admire. I'm happy with the choices I make, I often make mistakes but once I realise them, I take the action needed to re-do them or apologise. Be humble and gracious in victory or defeat and being available to anyone, on any level.