Ruby Southam’s passion for community engagement, health and wellbeing began long before her role as a Community Engagement Coordinator with Belgravia Leisure. 

From her early days working in a café to her time spent on the field playing community sports, Ruby’s experiences have shaped her values and passions, leading to her passion for community support at Knox Leisureworks and Monbulk Aquatic. 

“Previously working in a café, I learnt the importance of connecting to community members and understanding their different lifestyles and needs,” Ruby reflects.

“Sport and recreation have also always been a large part of my life growing up playing community sport, I was able to understand the importance of staying active and how that impacted my physical and mental wellbeing.”

Joining Belgravia Leisure wasn’t just a career move for Ruby, it was a natural progression driven by her desire to make a difference in the community. “During my studies with Monash for my Bachelor of Health Science, I was grateful to be placed at Belgravia Leisure alongside Emma Lowe and Jeff Walkley during a semester of placement,” she said.

“Through this, I was able to put into practice methods, techniques and evaluation approaches that I had learned throughout my studies. This aspect was beneficial for me realising that community engagement is a role I wanted to pursue.”

Now, as the Community Engagement Coordinator at Knox Leisureworks and Monbulk Aquatic Centre, Ruby finds fulfillment in creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued.

“Understanding from a site perspective how impactful a local leisure centre is to the community and how much they value it as a safe, welcoming space used for a variety of reasons,” she explains, “Being able to implement different programs and services and deliver to different groups that create change or have an impact.”

Looking ahead, Ruby sees herself continuing to make a positive impact on the community. She will also be completing work with Belgravia Foundation as a Project Officer.

Ruby (far right) pictured with some of the Belgravia Foundation team, helping out at the 2024 Inspiration Breakfast.

“I’m hoping to have a successful impact within the community, which is measured by active participation and engagement,” she said. “I aim to continue my passion in health promotion focusing on the impact that social and commercial determinants have on health and wellbeing.”

Outside of her career, Ruby is also passionate about exploring different cultures through travel, advocating for health and wellbeing and enjoying the beauty of a good sunset.

Ruby’s journey with Belgravia Leisure so far is a testament to her passion and dedication in creating meaningful change within communities. Through her work at Belgravia Leisure, Ruby continues to inspire others to lead healthier, more connected lives.

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