Giving Back

Dr Tererai Trent says to ask yourself what breaks your heart? Then use that as a compass to find your purpose and where you can give back.

For me there’s no one thing, so I am involved in multiple organisations.

Surf lifesaving

I have been a surf lifesaver at North Bondi Surf Lifesaving Club since 2007, spending ten of those years as a volunteer lifesaver on Australia’s iconic Bondi Beach. During that time I taught the Bronze Medallion, the qualification to become a surf lifesaver, as well as Advanced Resuscitation. I also gained the highest lifesaving award, the Gold Medallion (second attempt!). I was Club Vice Captain and Competition Director and Board member.

I am currently leading a working group to improve the number of women in leadership roles at the North Bondi as well as improve the engagement of women more broadly in the Club. I also sit on their Risk Committee. In 2020 I became a patrolling member at South Maroubra SLSC, while continuing to compete for, and be involved with, North Bondi.

Mental Health

From May 2019 to September 2022 I was a Board member and organisation Secretary (volunteer) for Mood Active. They’re an amazing organisation that helps people dealing with mild to moderate mental health challenges get back on their feet through exercise.

It’s something I’m passionate about, knowing from personal experience the difference exercise makes to my mental health. I deal with depression and exercise is one of the key elements in my toolkit to manage it.

There’s also plenty of research to back up the value exercise brings when it comes to dealing with mental health challenges. To find out more, head to their website www.moodactive.com.