When did you start your business?
Absolute was originally founded by my father, and I joined the business just over 16 years ago. When I entered the industry, there were almost no women, especially none in their early twenties, taking on the role of business broker. It took years of hard work and consistent top sales performances to prove my value. I remember, even with all that success, I was still asked to fetch coffee when I entered boardrooms.

What was the inspiration behind your work/business?
My inspiration came from constantly being told that I couldn’t do it. Business broking was said to be a tough career for women, especially for someone who wanted a family, with long hours and constant meetings with strangers. I took it as a challenge, determined not only to do it but to be the best in the industry. I’ve earned respect and recognition on an international level, and today, I use my platform to show employers that mothers can bring immense value and dedication to the workforce.

What are you most excited about in your work/business?
Helping women achieve financial independence excites me the most. There’s nothing more rewarding than helping a woman sell her business—especially when she initially doubted her capabilities—and then seeing her grow it into something worth millions. Being part of that journey is what fuels my passion and gets me excited every morning.

What has been the most challenging thing about starting your work/business?
The hardest part was silencing my inner critic and dealing with "mum guilt." Juggling career and motherhood is not easy, and society’s unrealistic expectations of women make it worse. I don’t believe you can give 100% to both at the same time—there aren’t enough hours in the day! It took me a long time to set boundaries that allowed me to balance both roles without losing myself. It’s still something I work on every day.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a work/business?
Set clear boundaries from the very beginning. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and if you don’t set limits, burnout is inevitable. Business is a marathon, not a sprint, and you need to create boundaries that protect your time, energy, and wellbeing. Clients will respect you more when you have clear working hours. It’s important to recharge yourself and not let the business consume all your time.

Why did you enter the Women Changing the World Awards?
"Visibility is the key to change." Awards like Women Changing the World give women like me a platform to share our stories and inspire others. It’s about showing that women can break barriers, and the more we share, the more we empower others to do the same. We’re all standing on the shoulders of the women who came before us, and now it’s our turn to pay it forward.

What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?
The energy in the room was palpable. As a woman in business and a mother, it can sometimes feel isolating. But being surrounded by women from all walks of life, sharing similar dreams, fears, and hopes, created a sense of community. It felt like being part of a powerful tribe, all supporting one another.

What surprised you most about the awards?
The deep sense of connection. I’ve attended many award ceremonies, but this one was different. There was a spiritual sense of belonging, as if we were all part of a larger movement—just like the women who fought for our rights decades ago. It was an experience I wasn’t expecting.

How did the awards help you in your work/business?
The awards amplified my message, helping me reach a broader audience. It has opened doors for public speaking opportunities and allowed me to connect with other powerful women who share similar values and goals. Together, we’ve been able to collaborate and support each other.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about entering the awards?
Don’t let imposter syndrome stop you! Too often, we second-guess ourselves. But the truth is, every woman who enters these awards is changing the world, one small step at a time. You’re already paving the way for others by standing in your truth and leading by example. Own your success!

What has been the best thing about starting your own work/business?
Having the ability to support mothers in gaining financial independence. When I had my first child, my mother reminded me that the beauty of owning my own business meant I could work around my baby’s schedule. This flexibility is something I’ve passed on to my staff. We need to stop thinking that motherhood makes us less capable. In fact, mothers often bring incredible value to the workplace, even if it means working outside the typical 9-to-5 hours.

What’s happening next in your work/business?
Absolute continues to expand, with more interstate and international work coming in. I’m also focusing on the next generation of women by educating girls about their worth and independence through my children’s book, "I Want To Be ME When I Grow Up". I’m determined to help more women and girls step into leadership roles and create the change we want to see.

What are your big plans for the future?
Breaking every glass ceiling and creating a world where women don’t have to feel anxious about mentioning their children in job interviews, knowing it won’t negatively affect how they’re perceived.

How can we connect with you?
Website: [Absolute Business Brokers](https://www.absolutebusinessbrokers.com.au)
Instagram: [Elle Likopoulos](https://www.instagram.com/elle_likopoulos)
Facebook: [Elena Likopoulos](https://www.facebook.com/elena.likopoulos)
LinkedIn: [Elle Likopoulos](https://www.linkedin.com/in/elle-likopoulos)