By Olivia Condous
A young Melton achiever was recognised last month for their work in supporting people with a disability and being a role model for Indigenous and autistic young people.
Elise Muller was awarded the First National Real Estate Leadership Award at the 7 News Victorian Young Achiever awards at the end of April.
From growing up as a high school student in Melton, to playing Essendon Football Club in the women’s Victorian Football League, to founding her own social enterprise to support people with a disability and working as a speaker, consultant and presenter on neurodiversity, Indigenous, LGBTQ+ and mental health issues, Elise Muller has done it all.
They said it was important to acknowledge every part of their identity to inspire others to be true to themselves.
“I really wanted to be relatable and to be real, and for people to witness that and then what they receive is permission to be their authentic self,
“What I wanted to share is that what makes you different, your authentic self, is your strength,” they said.
Muller said witnessing systemic issues as a disabled person who has struggled with mental health inspired her to work hard in order to make changes for others.
“Seeing the systems, how simple the changes can be and how much of an effect that’s having on young people, when those changes aren’t made really motivates me,” they said.
In their acceptance speech on the night of the awards, Muller said they were proud of being able to use what makes them different to reach their full potential.
“If you don’t belong in this world it is because you are here to make a ‘you-shaped’ imprint.”
