About Elephant in the Room Consulting
The name Elephant in the Room Consulting is certainly memorable. What's the story behind the name, and what does it represent to you?
“The name came from the idea that some of the most important conversations are often the ones people avoid.
Whether it’s leadership challenges, organisational culture, inclusion, reconciliation or business growth, there are often “elephants in the room” that everyone can see but few are willing to address. I wanted our business to be known for creating safe spaces to have those conversations constructively and respectfully.
For me, the name represents courage, authenticity and accountability. It reflects our commitment to helping individuals and organisations move beyond discomfort and into meaningful action.“
Your business helps organisations move beyond performative action. What does meaningful reconciliation look like in practice?
“Meaningful reconciliation is about commitment, not compliance.
It’s not about creating a RAP document and placing it on a shelf. It’s about embedding reconciliation into the way an organisation operates every day through leadership, procurement, employment, education, community engagement and decision-making.
The most successful organisations understand that reconciliation is a journey requiring ongoing learning, reflection and action. When reconciliation becomes part of an organisation’s culture rather than a standalone initiative, that’s when real impact is created for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, businesses and communities.“
As a 100% Indigenous-owned, female-led consultancy, how has your lived experience shaped the way you lead your business and work with clients?
“My lived experience is central to how I lead.
As an Indigenous woman in business, I’ve experienced both opportunities and challenges that have shaped my perspective on resilience, leadership and the importance of creating pathways for others. It has taught me the value of listening deeply, leading with integrity and building genuine relationships based on trust.
Those experiences help me connect with clients in a meaningful way. I understand that sustainable change is built through relationships, respect and shared understanding. I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to every engagement, which allows me to bridge conversations and create practical outcomes that resonate across diverse audiences.“
Your work spans everything from strategic planning and business advisory to cultural awareness training and mentoring. Which part of your work are you most passionate about, and why?
“I honestly love it all but if I had to choose one area, it would be leadership development.
Strong leaders create strong organisations, communities and futures. I am passionate about helping people recognise their potential and giving them the tools, confidence and strategy to lead effectively.
Whether I’m working with emerging leaders, executive teams or Indigenous business owners, the most rewarding part is seeing someone gain clarity, confidence and momentum. When leaders grow, the positive impact often extends well beyond the individual and influences entire teams, organisations and communities.“
What do you hope to see with the Queensland Indigenous business sector in 5 years?
“I would love to see more Indigenous businesses scaling nationally and internationally while maintaining strong cultural foundations.
Queensland is home to some incredible Indigenous entrepreneurs and innovators. Over the next five years, I hope we see increased access to procurement opportunities, investment, leadership development and collaboration across the sector.
Most importantly, I’d like to see Indigenous businesses recognised not because they’re Indigenous-owned, but because they’re industry-leading businesses delivering exceptional outcomes. The future is incredibly bright, and I believe Indigenous businesses will play an increasingly influential role in shaping Queensland’s economic and social landscape.”
You've worked with organisations ranging from local businesses to international clients across Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States. What have been some of the highlights of that journey?
“One of the greatest highlights has been seeing the universal relevance of Indigenous knowledge, leadership and relationship-based approaches.
Working internationally has shown me that regardless of location, people are seeking authentic leadership, meaningful connection and sustainable ways to create impact. It’s been incredibly rewarding to share Indigenous perspectives on leadership and culture with organisations across different countries and industries.
Another highlight has been watching clients achieve long-term success after implementing strategies we’ve developed together. Seeing organisations evolve and create positive change within their communities is always deeply rewarding.“
What advice would you give to Indigenous business owners who are looking to grow their business or expand into new markets?
“First, back yourself.
Many Indigenous business owners underestimate the value they bring and the unique perspective they offer. Confidence, combined with a clear strategy, can open incredible opportunities.
Secondly, focus on building strong relationships and networks. Business growth is rarely achieved in isolation. The right partnerships, mentors and networks can accelerate growth significantly.
Finally, don’t lose sight of your purpose and values as you scale. Growth should strengthen your business, not disconnect you from who you are. Your culture, story and authenticity are strengths that set you apart in the marketplace.“
Can you share a project or success story that you're particularly proud of? What impact did it have?
“While I’m incredibly proud of the impact we’ve created through our work with organisations on leadership, strategy and reconciliation, one of the achievements closest to my heart is my long-standing involvement with Yalari.
Yalari isn’t just an organisation I support. They’re family.
For many years, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring and supporting young Indigenous people through Yalari’s programs, and I’ve seen firsthand how access to education, leadership opportunities and strong support networks can transform lives.
One of the proudest moments in my journey has been establishing the Jenni Walke Endowment Scholarship. Creating a scholarship that will continue supporting future generations of Indigenous students is about much more than education. It’s about creating opportunities, building confidence, opening doors and ensuring young people can pursue their dreams regardless of their circumstances.”
“For me, success has never been solely about building a business. It’s about creating a legacy that extends beyond me, beyond Elephant in the Room Consulting, and beyond any individual achievement. It’s about helping create pathways for future generations to thrive, lead and contribute to their communities in ways that are meaningful to them.
The impact of our organisational work is incredibly important, but when I see a young person gain confidence, embrace opportunities and begin shaping their own future, that’s where I see true long-term change. If we can help build stronger leaders today, we’re creating stronger communities, stronger businesses and a stronger future for generations to come.
That’s the kind of impact I’m most proud of.“
Looking ahead, what's next for Elephant in the Room Consulting? Are there any exciting projects, goals or opportunities on the horizon?
“We’re currently focused on expanding our leadership, capability development and business strategy offerings both nationally and internationally.
Over the coming years, we’re looking forward to growing our influence in markets such as North America while continuing to support organisations throughout Australia. We’re also investing in growing our flagship Empires Builders programs that help leaders and business owners build sustainable growth and greater impact.
Today we’re supporting clients across Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States, which is particularly meaningful considering the business itself was inspired during my travels in Barcelona back in 2017. What started as a conversation in a café has grown into an international consultancy creating impact across multiple countries, and we’re excited about continuing that journey while staying true to our purpose of helping people and organisations have courageous conversations that lead to meaningful action.”
Is there anything else that you would like to share or promote?
“The success we’re experiencing today is genuinely humbling. Being recognised through national and international awards over recent years has been an incredible honour, but more than anything, those moments remind me how many people have contributed to our journey.
Every award represents a client who trusted us, a partner who collaborated with us, a mentor who shared their wisdom, or a community that supported us along the way. I am deeply grateful for every opportunity, every relationship and every lesson that has helped shape Elephant in the Room Consulting into what it is today. Those acknowledgements give me confidence that we’re on the right path, but they also reinforce our responsibility to continue creating meaningful impact for the people and communities we serve.”
“When I stop and reflect on the journey, there are so many moments that feel surreal. Travelling around the world sharing Indigenous perspectives on leadership and business, standing in Times Square and looking up to see my face on a billboard, attending global awards events, cheering on the Dolphins as their official consulting partner, or sitting on Country with Community having conversations that truly matter. Each experience is very different, but they all reinforce the same thing: the power of relationships, purpose and staying true to who you are.
I genuinely feel blessed to be doing the work that I do. There are still plenty of days where I have a “pinch me” moment and wonder how a business that started with a vision, a passion for helping people, and just $43 has created opportunities to make an impact locally, nationally and globally. None of it happens alone, and that’s why gratitude sits at the heart of everything I do. The journey has always been bigger than me. It’s about creating opportunities, opening doors, building leaders, and leaving a legacy that will benefit future generations.”
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