ABOUT ELLY

 



"I help people build trust and connection in the relationships that matter most"

A Little About Me...
I’ve spent more than 25 years working at the intersection of truth, trust, and human behaviour - helping people communicate more honestly, lead more confidently, and build environments where trust feels safe and people feel seen.

My career began in law enforcement, where truth and trust decisions could literally mean the difference between safety and danger. Those early experiences shaped the way I see the world and the work I do today. 

I’ve carried those lessons into leadership, training, and keynote speaking, where my focus is on helping people and organisations strengthen the human foundations that everything else depends on - credibility, connection, and confidence.

What drives me is simple: I care about people and the environments they work and live in. When I see burnout, stress, and disconnection I notice that it often comes down to the same few things: not feeling heard, not feeling safe, and not feeling connected to people or purpose.

 

Why I Do What I Do...

I want to help leaders create cultures where people can speak up, show up, and do their best work without fear. Where truth feels welcome, trust feels mutual, and connection feels real.

When those things happen, relationships strengthen, performance follows - but more importantly, people thrive.

“The biggest leadership risks today aren’t technical - they’re human. When we lead with truth and trust, everything else gets stronger.”

I’ve been described as engaging, warm, bold and witty with a no-nonsense style. I’m happy to adopt all those words as long as the end result means I create ‘cut through’ impact that transforms outcomes for individuals, teams, and organisations.
 



What People Are Saying...
Hear from attendees at some of Elly's events...

 



See Elly in Action
Interesting topics + great delivery = engaged audience


Want to know why do I do what I do? It's when I get feedback like this from people. When I know I have made an impact and a difference...

"I had the privilege of hearing Elly speak at the SCA Australasian Conference in Hobart in May 2025, and her impact was immediate and lasting. Elly’s session on Truth Intelligence and Trust Wisdom was one of the most powerful I’ve experienced in my professional career.

She has a remarkable ability to guide people and teams into deeper self-awareness and stronger connection, all through the lens of truth, trust, and courageous communication. One statement in particular has stayed with me: “The most powerful teams and connected relationships share one invisible foundation: the ability to create environments where truth can flourish and trust can thrive.”

That insight perfectly encapsulates what Elly brings to every room she enters – a focus on creating safe, honest, and empowering spaces. I took her message back to my team in New Zealand, and it has reinforced the core values we work hard to live by every day.

Elly is not only a gifted speaker but also a catalyst for meaningful change in leadership and workplace culture. I wholeheartedly recommend her to any organisation looking to foster deeper trust, stronger teams, and a more authentic culture."

Anita Reinecke
President & Board Member | Strata Community Association New Zealand (SCA (NZ))