My name is Ruby Waidyatillake and I am currently in my final year completing a Bachelor of Health Science at Monash university. I am very excited to be completing my placement with Belgravia Foundation and Belgravia Leisure and feel grateful for the opportunity to learn from a team that is so dedicated to improving health and wellbeing in the community.
My interest in health studies began in high school, where I first discovered how fascinating it is to explore the many factors that shape people’s health beyond just biology. Since then, my passion has grown through university subjects that have given me a broader perspective on public health, including health promotion, disease prevention, and how social, economic and cultural influences affect people’s daily lives. These areas have sparked my interest in understanding not only individual behaviours but also the bigger picture of how environments and systems can support healthier choices.
During my studies, I have developed skills in research, critical thinking and communication, which I am eager to put into practice. I am especially interested in projects that focus on planning and evaluating health programs, as well as exploring ways to make sport and recreation more inclusive and accessible to all members of the community. I am particularly inspired by Belgravia Leisure’s initiatives aimed at improving inclusivity for women and multicultural populations, such as the ‘Play our Way’ program as it closely with my interests in equity and community health promotion.
Outside of university, I’ve always enjoyed being active and have participated in sport and leisure activities from a young age. Being part of these communities has helped me build confidence, resilience, teamwork and social skills qualities that I value deeply and hope to bring into my placement experience.
Through this placement, I am excited to learn from experienced professionals, contribute to meaningful projects, and deepen my understanding of how public health organisations work in practice. I hope to leave with new insights, practical experience and a clearer sense of how I can make a positive impact in my future career.
I am truly thankful for this opportunity and look forward to getting started with the Belgravia Foundation and Belgravia Leisure.
