Empowering Diversity: Samer Kamal’s Journey at Belgravia Leisure
Samer Kamal's journey from Amman, Jordan, to becoming the Venue Manager at Smithton Wellbeing Indoor Recreation Leisure (SWIRL) epitomizes the inclusive culture of Belgravia Leisure.
Born in Jordan, a country situated at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe, Samar came to Australia in 2019 to pursue his Master’s degree, working at Belgravia Leisure as a swim teacher and lifeguard. Just four months later, Samer secured his position as Venue Manager for SWIRL and hasn’t looked back, enjoying all that Belgravia Leisure has to offer when it comes to recognition, inclusion, support and room to develop new skills.
Underlining the importance of being able to express oneself freely, Samer shares how Belgravia Leisure's embrace of diversity has allowed him to bring his whole self to work, enhancing his job satisfaction and effectiveness. His experiences during Ramadan—where his team's supportive actions helped him maintain his fasting rituals—highlight the organisation's commitment to
“I find Belgravia Leisure to be a diverse workplace, and I was grateful for the welcoming onboarding experience for someone who comes from a different culture.”
“I truly feel I can bring my authentic self to the workplace, which allows me to operate at my fullest potential. Particularly as someone coming from a different cultural background, I firmly believe that a long-lasting and fulfilling duration in any company is only possible when individuals are encouraged to be their true selves without fear of judgment or discrimination.”
Samer continued, “I have personally experienced this inclusivity firsthand when my culture and beliefs were respected and embraced by my team without judgment. I am particularly grateful to the people and culture team, who went above and beyond in their support during a significant time for me.
“During Ramadan, while attending Belgravia Leisure College, they provided everything necessary to ensure I could continue my fasting comfortably. This kind of understanding and support fosters a sense of belonging and appreciation within the workplace, making it truly inclusive and supportive.”
“To me, it all starts with the company promoting a culture of respect, where individuals can freely express themselves without fear of judgment. Embracing diversity and acknowledging that each person brings unique perspectives and experiences to the table is essential. By encouraging open communication, active listening, and valuing the contributions of all team members, we can create an ideal workplace where people feel seen and heard. When people from various backgrounds come together, united by a common goal, it fosters a positive and enriching work atmosphere.
“I’m also grateful to be a part of a company that wants to learn more about our collective identity through the Workforce Diversification survey. Understanding the diverse composition of our workforce is essential for not only gaining a comprehensive understanding of who makes up our organisation, but also to operate successfully in different locations and foster a workplace culture that embraces diversity and inclusivity, ultimately driving our company’s success and innovation.”
Samer's story is not just about personal achievement; it underscores Belgravia Leisure's efforts to foster an environment where every team member, regardless of their background, feels valued and heard. This commitment is further reflected in initiatives like the Workforce Diversification survey, which aims to better understand and celebrate the varied identities within the company.
As he plans for his future, aiming to manage larger venues and eventually oversee multiple sites, Samer's trajectory is a testament to Belgravia Leisure's dedication to leadership diversity and career development. His passion for swimming, learning, and surfing reflects his philosophy that embracing new challenges and continuous learning is key to personal and professional success.
Belgravia Foundation applauds Belgravia Leisure's commitment to promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce, ensuring a welcoming environment for all employees.