Warm, engaging, funny and deeply relatable, Elisa Ryan is an award-winning performer and experienced MC who brings humour, authenticity and confidence to every stage she steps onto.

Elisa’s career spans live performance, comedy, facilitation and community leadership. Her pathway into the work was non-traditional — becoming a young mum at 17 and navigating significant life challenges — experiences that now underpin her grounded, human approach to engaging audiences. Now in her 40s, with two adult children, Elisa connects easily across generations and demographics.

Her performance background began with children’s entertainment, where she spent more than a decade working across large-scale public events and intimate live shows. This foundation sharpened her skills in audience connection, improvisation and reading a room — skills that continue to define her work as a host and MC.

As an adult performer, Elisa has built a strong reputation in stand-up comedy, theatre and live events, receiving industry recognition for her on-stage work. She is equally at home delivering scripted material, facilitating discussions, or adapting in real time to keep energy high and audiences engaged.

Alongside performance, Elisa brings extensive professional experience in community development, events and program delivery. She has presented at conferences, facilitated groups and worked within complex environments, giving her a calm, capable presence on stage and behind the scenes.

Elisa has also appeared across screen, radio and podcasting, further strengthening her ability to communicate clearly, naturally and with impact.

Confident, entertaining and highly adaptable, Elisa is available to MC conferences, host events, facilitate conversations and support organisers to deliver events that feel connected, purposeful and memorable.

Speaking & Hosting Themes (Flexible & Adaptable)

Elisa is particularly suited to events seeking warmth, relatability and humour. Common themes include:

• Resilience and adaptability
• Confidence and self-belief
• Life transitions and change
• Leadership, mentoring and growth
• Connection, belonging and community
• Finding humour in everyday life
• Navigating challenge with perspective