“I get the most amazing reaction from people when I tell them about Enlighten and what we do. I believe that many people – both genders, all ages and walks of life – are becoming more and more aware of the need for the work Enlighten does with today’s girls. I have never been more proud to talk about my work and the fact that I get to remind all these gorgeous girls just how special they are.”
A trained dancer and former dance teacher, Nikki spent a number of years performing as a dancer and modelling professionally after completing her Communications degree. Her passion for writing led to a position as the editor of a magazine for young dancers, and a scriptwriting role with a production company followed. Then she moved into a producer role, working on the creation of videos and special events, and often appearing on camera as host.
Training to be a volunteer telephone counsellor with Lifeline gave Nikki the opportunity to explore her interest in counselling and psychotherapy, which she continues to study. It quickly became clear to Nikki during her time at Lifeline that she was particularly interested in social issues related to girls and women.
A former high school student of Enlighten’s CEO, Dannielle Miller, Nikki wanted to be involved the moment she saw the work Enlighten was doing in the community. Experienced in front of a crowd, with lots of stories to tell and a special interest in young women, Nikki has a proven rapport with school-aged girls and offers a unique insight into the worlds of fashion, entertainment and the arts.
“I have always been a dedicated and active feminist who is passionate about helping women grow in a society that is only beginning to accommodate their rights. I want to be a facilitator, someone who can arm young girls with the tools and knowledge that will help them navigate through and analyse the plethora of images of women to which they are exposed. I am so proud to be a part of Enlighten Education, where I can follow this dream and really make a difference.”
As a trained Visual Arts teacher and television presenter, Chloe Veljanovski has an abundance of experience in reaching and communicating with young people. Chloe has worked in the music industry for an independent record label, and as a producer and host on a music television show. These opportunities have allowed Chloe to interview a range of amazing musicians such as Timmy Trumpet, Passenger and Alison Wonderland — and to experience firsthand the culture and lifestyle of the girls she works with at Enlighten.
In her time working as a teacher, Chloe has developed programs that foster the self-esteem and wellbeing of students, particularly young women, and she has worked with indigenous students through AIME. Going beyond teaching the curriculum, she feels it is important to form meaningful bonds with students and inspire them to help others. Chloe uses her expertise in the classroom, in the visual arts and media, and as presenter to follow her passion, which is to empower young women to reach their potential.