In a world that loves to put women into one label boxes, where “either/or” rules, there’s a quiet but revolutionary power in embracing “and.” For many women, particularly those navigating creative spaces, life has often felt like a series of checkboxes: Are you a leader or a nurturer? An artist or a businesswoman? A dreamer or a realist? Society is quick to place labels, define roles and make assumptions, creating a world of limitations that can feel impossible to break free from. But what if we’re not just one thing and do not want to be?
I asked Elena Ora, our first ROARA cover girl and a woman who wears many hats, for her insight on the matter as she has had lots of experience with it. Many of you may know her as Rita Ora’s sister, but while Elena’s identity has often been reduced to roles like “manager or sister of”, she never wanted to limit herself to “just” that. She has a story of her own – a story of discovery, resilience and the courageous choice to embrace more than just one role. Elena is an Artist Manager, a Creative Director, Brand Manager, Designer, Producer and in our opinion, a fashion icon on top of that. How does she keep up with all of that? What may seem like the perfectly painted picture of someone’s successful life, is not always as flawless as it seems.
Elena openly shared with me how caring for her mental and physical health has only recently become a high priority for her, acknowledging that looking “fine” on the outside doesn’t always reflect someone’s inner well-being. “People think if you look good and presentable, you must be ‘doing well,’ but that’s not always the case,” she says.
Therapy, meditation and a dedication to self-care have become her allies in this journey, helping her reconnect with what truly matters to her. She’s aware that it all takes a while to get better and she isn’t ashamed to admit that it is a daily struggle to be her best and a healthier self. But through this process, she’s found a way to separate other people’s options from what she knows to be true about herself. Breaking free from external labels, she has been embracing her own identity, one that is not defined by a single relationship or job title but is open to limitless possibilities.
Starting out being not just young but a woman in the creative industry, Elena has faced the added challenge of overcoming dismissals and doubts, often finding herself underestimated or labeled inexperienced. Yet, instead of shrinking in the face of these judgments, she turned them into fuel for her creativity, cultivating spaces where her ideas could flourish and her voice could rise unapologetically.
“My heart goes out to those who do not feel valued in what they do,” she says. “It is very liberating to be able to express yourself and see your visions come to life.” Working in an industry that values creativity has enabled her to break the mold and stretch beyond traditional definitions, empowering her to chart a course that is her own.
Embracing the power of “and,” Elena has chosen to live a life where she can explore different aspects of herself without being bound by a single role or identity. Her advice for young women is simple yet powerful: do it all. Try, experiment, and never fear changing paths. She reminds us that dreams are not static – they are fluid, evolving as we grow. Today, you might want to be an artist; tomorrow, a scientist. It’s all valid.
Her journey speaks to the freedom and strength that come from allowing yourself to evolve, embracing each chapter for what it is, rather than trying to force it to fit into someone else’s narrative. Some people are okay with wearing just one hat, but if you decide to expand your horizons then that is your right and your choice alone. Finding balance and juggling it all is not something you will master overnight, but you will find your way while seeking inspiration and wisdom from those who are already where you want to be and will lead the way.
I asked Elena what her advice to young women would be. Her response: Definitely do it all! Go for everything you want. Try new things, switch directions if it feels right, and don’t let anyone tell you it’s wrong to want more. It’s your life and your choice. Elena was actually the one who told me that nothing is impossible, you just have to start somewhere. She’s the one who encouraged me to become a writer and pursue journalism which led to me finding a gap in media and a much bigger purpose.
Elena has a vision for all women, but especially in the creative industries: a world where they’re valued for who they truly are. She wants to see women being supported for their authenticity, judged not by numbers or trends but by their authenticity to themselves. When women are free to be who they truly are, they’ll create from a place of truth – and that truth resonates.
Elena Ora’s story is a reminder that life isn’t about choosing one label, one path, or one passion. It’s about embracing everything you are and daring to expand beyond what anyone thinks is possible. There’s freedom and strength in refusing to be defined by someone else’s checklist, in saying yes to all the things that make you feel whole and alive. In a world that insists on limiting us, the real power lies in choosing to be more – and daring to be everything you’re meant to be.
ROARA Magazine 