©UNICEF Australia: Elka Whalan lends support to students at NSBC Mackellar Girls High School

Olympic swimmer Elka Whalan (nee Graham) was been appointed as UNICEF Day for Change Ambassador in 2009. Over the past few months she has been busy visiting schools in NSW to offer encouragement and support in the lead up to UNICEF Day for Change.

“I am excited to be the Ambassador for UNICEF Day for Change. I have admired UNICEF’s work for a long time now and I am thrilled to help promote such a great cause.”

During her career, Elka ranked among Australian swimming’s elite, bringing home medals from Olympic Games, World Championships and Commonwealth Games.

Since retiring, Elka shifted into journalism and media, appearing on Channels 7, 9 and 10, as well as Fox Sports. In 2007, she appeared in Channel 7’s series, Dancing with the Stars. Elka has also written for Marie Claire magazine, the The Sun-Herald and New Idea magazine.

“I have travelled around the world, both as a swimmer and in my personal life and have seen first-hand some of the disadvantages and poverty that exists. UNICEF does great work in improving the lives of vulnerable children.”

Since becoming a UNICEF Day for Change Ambassador, Elka has visited Mackellar Girls Campus, her old high school, and offered encouragement and support for the girls organising UNICEF Day for Change at the school. Elka also presented a Certificate of Thanks to Ryde Secondary College, which raised an impressive sum of over $1,200 for UNICEF.

“UNICEF’s dedication to ensuring every child has access to a quality education is an objective I admire and respect. UNICEF Day for Change is just one way that Australian school students can help make a difference to the lives of vulnerable children in developing countries.”