Former world number four tennis player-turned bestselling author, Channel 9 commentator and mental health advocate, Jelena Dokic, has shared her story of resilience and survival with an enrapt audience in Hobart.
Not-for-profit health insurer St Lukes hosted Jelena at its wellness hub in Hobart as part of its new “An Evening With…” series, which connects inspiring speakers on health and wellbeing themes with Tasmanian audiences.
“We’re delighted to have Jelena as our inaugural speaker,” says Kate Denmen, St Lukes Southern Region Customer Care Manager.
“Who better than Jelena – one of Australia’s best-loved sports stars and mental health advocates – to kick off this series, connect with Tasmanians and rally us to take control of our own health, wellbeing, and ultimately lives.
“Hearing from inspiring role models who motivate us to achieve our potential is part of our work to make Tasmania the healthiest island on the planet.”
Jelena burst onto the global tennis scene in 1999 at the age of 16, when she dethroned then-world number one Martina Hingis at Wimbledon. But behind her determination and achievements on court throughout her career, Jelena was fighting an even greater battle behind the scenes.
As a two-time refugee, Jelena had spent most of her life facing bullying and racism. Even more insidious, from the age of six she endured harrowing abuse at the hands of her own father for more than 15 years. The stress and trauma took its toll on her mental health, leading to disordered eating, anxiety, depression and PTSD.
Jelena has reclaimed her story, recently releasing an autobiography Fearless as a follow-up to her bestseller Unbreakable. She has also returned to the tennis world as a grand slam commentator, become an influential speaker and mental health champion, and gone viral for her comments around body positivity as well as her warm and candid interactions with Australian Open stars.
“Speaking up and finding my voice saved my life,” says Jelena. “Baring it all in my speeches and books has allowed me to stand in my power and truth after almost three decades of being silenced.
“I’ve gone from ‘survivor’ to ‘thriver’. Now, helping others find their voice, to be their most honest and unapologetic self, and to stand up for themselves through sessions like this is such a privilege.”
Yesterday afternoon Jelena spent time meeting Hobart fans at a book signing session, before the evening’s event kicked off with an introduction by local mental health champion Mitch McPherson of SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY. Mitch then hosted a Q&A session with Jelena, facilitating more moments of personal connection with the audience.
ENDS
Contact: Emily Woodgate, Timmins Ray Public Relations 0412 828 802 | emily@timminsray.com.au