Elena Rowland is the visionary force behind the Flannel Project. El, as she is known, embodies the essence and soul of our mission, drawing from a rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped her into a beacon of hope and resilience.

A former corporal in the Australian Army, El served her country for 14 years and remains a steadfast advocate for mental health and well-being. Her journey in the military instilled in her a deep sense of duty and purpose, qualities that continue to guide her unwavering commitment to supporting those in need.

El's personal encounters with mental health challenges, including PTSD stemming from her service on humanitarian deployments, have endowed her with a profound understanding of the depths of despair and the resilience required to overcome adversity. Her experiences serving in regions affected by tragedy, such as the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami in Banda Aceh, have forged in her a resilient spirit and a boundless compassion for those struggling with their own inner battles.

Beyond her military service, El is a writer, humanitarian, and a catalyst for change in the realms of veteran and women's initiatives. Her passion for creating positive impact and fostering community support has driven her to champion numerous initiatives aimed at empowering and uplifting others.

El's connection to Shannen runs deep; they were not only comrades but also friends during their time in the army. The devastating loss of Shannen to suicide served as a deeply personal catalyst for El, igniting her passion to start the Flannel Project.

As the heart and driving force of the Flannel Project, El's vision, compassion, and unwavering dedication propel us forward in our mission to bring light, hope, and healing to those impacted by mental health challenges and suicide.