As National Volunteers Week approaches, we are thrilled to celebrate the incredible contributions of our dedicated volunteers who make a significant impact on Women Onside. This week, we are proud to share the inspiring story of Leah, whose dedication and expertise in financial management have been instrumental in our mission to empower women in football. Leah's journey is a testament to the transformative power of volunteerism, and we hope her story inspires others to get involved and make a difference in their communities.
Leah's Journey
In the vibrant football world, where passion and dedication often define the journey, Leah's story stands out as a testament to the power of volunteering. Originally hailing from Adelaide, Leah relocated to the Gold Coast in 2018, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep-seated love for the sport. Football has always been a cornerstone of Leah's life, with her two teenage sons avidly playing the game, instilling in her a desire to contribute to the community that has given her family so much joy.
Leah's professional background is impressive. She has spent 15 years in Senior Finance Management roles across sporting and educational organisations. Her journey includes significant stints at the club level, the State Sporting Member Federation Level at Football SA, and the National Sporting Organisational level at Aus Triathlon. This extensive experience equipped Leah with a unique skill set that she was eager to bring back to football in a meaningful way.
Her opportunity to give back came when she saw the Volunteer Bookkeeper role at Women Onside advertised. "This role was perfect for me," Leah recalls. I could utilise the skills that I had obtained working in sport and give back by volunteering my time to enable Women Onside to continue to grow and empower women in football."
Leah's volunteering journey with Women Onside has spanned over two years, during which she has made significant contributions to the organisation. "It has been a fantastic journey and a place where I feel I can make a real contribution and difference," Leah shares. Her efforts in managing the accounts have allowed other team members to focus on the organisation's bigger strategic plans, thus playing a crucial role in Women Onside's growth and success.
Beyond the technical aspects of her role, Leah has found immense personal satisfaction and growth through her volunteering. She has met new people who are inclusive and eager to share their knowledge and expertise. "I feel connected to this group and have continued to grow as an individual whilst learning during this process," Leah says. The sense of community and shared mission has significantly rewarded her dedication.
Leah firmly believes that volunteering is crucial in today's sporting climate. "With many sporting codes facing ongoing funding cuts and economic challenges, many sports are financially struggling to be profitable," she explains. Volunteers play a vital role in helping run sporting organisations' day-to-day operations. Leah encourages others to consider volunteering, emphasising its personal rewards and community benefits. "Volunteering is a fantastic way to get out of the house, make new friends, and make a difference in the community," she advises.
Looking to the future, Leah is excited about the potential for growth and development within Women Onside, especially after the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. "I am looking forward to being part of the future growth of Women Onside. I am excited for what the future holds for women in football," she says. Leah envisions more opportunities for gender equality and the ongoing development of women’s football in Australia, and she is thrilled to be part of the advocacy work driving this change.
Leah's story is a shining example of how volunteering can empower individuals and strengthen communities. Her dedication and expertise have significantly impacted Women Onside, and her journey continues to inspire others to contribute their skills and passion to the football world. As we celebrate National Volunteers Week, Leah's story reminds us of the incredible power of volunteerism in creating positive change and fostering a supportive, inclusive community.
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