Paige Pollard, one of our UOW College Fitness graduates, has received the Social Value and Community Impact Award of the Year in the 2023 AUSactive Awards.
AUSactive is a leading authority in the exercise and active health sector and has a history of recognising and celebrating exceptional contributions to the Australian Active Health and Exercise industry.
A Life-Changing Initiative
For her, winning this AUSactive Award is more than a recognition, it is a testament to the impact one person can make.
Earlier this year, Paige took matters into her own hands when she found herself struggling to find friends to run with. She founded Good Energy Run Club to combat loneliness and foster strong connections amongst women through the power of running.
Since its creation, Paige has committed countless hours to the initiative.
"It has been immensely rewarding to witness the positive change and friendships already made through this club," she says.
Turning Personal Struggles into Community Strength
Paige has always believed in the power of shared experiences.
"I thought, surely there are other women out there who want to connect," she says.
It was her own personal struggles that fueled the desire to establish a space for connection and empowerment. The increasing number of women who show up every week underscores the significance of her efforts.
Prepared by UOW College
Completing her Fitness qualifications at UOW College gave Paige the skills and self-assurance to run her club both safely and effectively.
"In one of my last assignments, I coined the name 'Good Energy' and took steps to officially register it," she says.
The UOW College's Fitness Program Manager, Kelly McMullan, also shared her praise.
"Paige was a student who was committed to excellence from start to finish. Her business was developed during her study and showcased her core values and indicated a successful business in the making."
A Network of Empowered Women
Paige is most proud of the diverse group of women in her club who serve as her real support network and sees the award as a motivation to expand the reach of Good Energy Run Club.
"It empowers me to continue to build this community," she says.
Whether through injury prevention workshops or events encouraging body positivity, Paige is always looking for new ways to deepen the community impact.
A Future Filled with Good Energy
When it comes to future aspirations, Paige keeps her cards close to her chest, but her mission is clear.
"It’s my personal mission to ensure no one else around me has to feel like they don’t have one friend to go for a run with. That’s why I do it. That’s what Good Energy Run Club is for."
For aspiring professionals in the health and fitness sector, Paige has one message.
"Don't be afraid of the fear of failure."
It's a philosophy that has served her well, as Good Energy Run Club continues to grow, with membership numbers doubling week-to-week.
And with this award now under her belt, the sky is the limit for Paige and the community she's built.
We extend a warm congratulations to Paige Pollard, and you can follow Good Energy Run Club on Instagram to stay up to date.