When did you start your business?
I’ve thirty years of experience working full-time in the corporate world across three different continents. In 2019 I established my author and speaker brand to amplify my voice and better serve others to realise their full potential.

What was the inspiration behind your work/business?
I had a turbulent childhood which shattered me into a million pieces, but those dark days were the catalyst for establishing my literary brand and are what make me razor sharp as a businesswoman today. They've changed the way I nurture the beautiful relationships I have with my own children and husband and shape how I approach building meaningful business connections with others. I built enormous resilience at a young age and always knew I had the power within me to carve out a better future in the world of work.

What are you most excited about in your work/business?
I’m privileged to be working in a unique space that has meaningful purpose and the ability to improve communities and societies for the better. This juncture of my career has brought a sense of responsibility, but is also enriching in so many ways that I never want to give anything less than a thousand percent.

What has been the most challenging thing about starting your work/business?
Having to spend large amounts of time away from my family on business. I make the most of wherever I am, exploring new areas, cultures, and foods with zest, and I have learned to be at peace in my own company, but that does not stop me missing home.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a work/business?
Only you can spread your wings and fly. Don’t hold yourself back by clipping your own wings. You have everything you need in your own grasp and the full power to make it happen, so be fearless and intentional about turning your dreams into a reality.

Why did you enter the Women Changing the World Awards?
I was nominated by a work colleague as I’m Executive Sponsor for Gender Equity in my corporate job and am always encouraging other women to back themselves and celebrate their achievements. It helps to refuel the batteries so you can keep applying your full energy to the things that are important to you. I was delighted as I knew it might give me the chance to extend my network with other like-minded change makers.

What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?
WCWA is a special community of like-minded women who are all making a positive impact on society. Everyone supports one another and it is humbling to meet such great fellow leaders trailblazing in their field of expertise, all kicking incredible goals for themselves and others. Hanging out with this tribe at the awards in London was amazing.

What surprised you most about the awards?
The high caliber of the guests. Meeting Tererai, the Women Changing the World Team and The Duchess of York were all wonderful. And the energy of the evening with the nominees was magical.

How did the awards help you in your work/business?
I’ve built up such an amazing network that no matter what is going on at any given time, I know there is someone on the end of the phone or an email who will share some words of wisdom or a shoulder to lean on. It’s pretty amazing to be inside that kind of business circle.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about entering the awards?
The same as above. Only you can spread your wings and fly. Go for it and I truly hope you soar.

What has been the best thing about starting your own work/business?
Being an author and speaker balances the corporate work I do. Together they give me the right balance of ying and yang.

What’s happening next in your work/business?
I’m putting the final touches on my eighth book which should be published later this year. It’s non-fiction about living authentically and picks up the tones of my TedX talk.

What are your big plans for the future?
I’ve been on secondment in the UK for the last year and there are some big forces driving decision making at the moment, so I will reserve answering until things play out on what next. I’m looking forward to what lies ahead.

How can we connect with you?

www.kellyvannelson.com
www.facebook.com/kellyvannelsonauthor
www.twitter.com/kellyvannelson
www.instagram.com/kellyvannelson
www.linkedin.com/in/kellyvn
www.youtube.com/channel/UC0YGhh6Kshoip_5r6I4EyxQ
www.youtube.com/channel/UC0YGhh6Kshoip_5r6I4EyxQ?view_as=subscriber