Founding Dragon Sisters
Dragon Sisters developed from Michelle Hanton’s experiences as the Founder of Dragons Abreast Australia – which grew from a germ of an idea into a national not for profit charity.
Michelle Hanton and Yvonne Toering have joined forces to bring women together in an atmosphere of inclusion and personal empowerment through a unique framework which takes a holistic approach to personal development.
No one envies having breast cancer but many women often said how they envied the camaraderie, support and opportunities that radiated from Dragons Abreast membership.
Through Dragon Sisters similar opportunities are now available to all women and we harness a wide array of female experts in a variety of fields.
Michelle Hanton OAM
With exceptional and proven business and communication skills, an established track record as well as extensive experience, Michelle is well positioned to help women from all walks of life develop to their full potential.
Michelle is a multi award winning business woman who works across Australia. Born in Malaysia and growing up in the Middle East, as the daughter of a diplomat, her entire life has involved cross-cultural environments making her comfortable in most situations.Michelle's home is the tropical and relaxed city of Darwin.
Michelle’s career has included working in the world of private banks in London, as an ambulance officer in the Northern Territory, moving on to own and establish her own businesses in retail and exporting to the UK, USA, France and Middle East, as well as extensive and varied contract work within both government and private enterprise including judging prestigious national awards.
Michelle, featured on the ABC Australian Story “In The Pink”, has penned numerous articles for a variety of national and international publications and is also a sought after guest speaker who speaks from the heart rather than the text book.
A diagnosis of breast cancer in 1997 forced a change of life style and focus. As the founder and National Coordinator of Dragons Abreast Australia – a not for profit charity that promotes breast cancer awareness and education, through the sport of dragon boat racing, Michelle brought breast cancer into the public spotlight in a dynamic, innovating, fun and very powerful way, whilst also empowering and inspiring women living with this insidious disease to seize the day and enjoy every moment!
You can contact Michelle direct at michelle@dragonsisters.com.au
Yvonne Toering
Yvonne comes from a background of international residency, experienced in a diverse range of cultures. Her career spans 27 years in the corporate arena in the fields of sales, management, international recruitment and training.
Yvonne spent many years in working in London (one of the original Filofax toting BMW driving yuppies!), Manchester and Sydney, in senior roles, successfully ran her own head-hunting business and also ‘served time’ as a corporate wife.
Twice married, a breast cancer survivor twice over, and mother to an eight year old daughter, Yvonne is seasoned in the concepts of gaining good outcomes in life despite the pressures and set backs all women face.
Yvonne has a special interest and affinity for motivational training and personal development coaching, resultant from many years mentoring staff members and clients. Yvonne now lives in semi-rural, semi-self sufficiency, growing veggies, keeping an alternative energy sourced home, cows, family and her own consultancy business of 8 years. She says
‘everyone has value, potential and aspirations and should be helped to realise them – however modest or insurmountable they may seem – we all need empathy and help’.