2024 Women to Watch
This year we showcase over 80 South Australian women to watch throughout the year. From business, to careers, arts to science. This year’s selected women highlight the depth and diversity of the women in our state and also the vast array of opportunities to develop a business or career in South Australia. Find our more about our inaugural Women to Watch initiative here.
Energetic professional with over 15 years of experience of being a well-rounded, central point in effective teams spanning across multiple industries. Well respected by peers and known for being a highly organised motivator with exceptional communication skills and an interest in all facets of the working environment from safety to social, switching between analytical and spontaneous as required. I am now thriving as an F45 Studio Owner, Manager and Trainer, bringing all these skills and experience together into the Studio, reinvigorating my passion and experience in health and fitness for a professional, and fun outfit for our members.
// Favourite inspirational quote
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” ― Maya Angelou
// Let’s get to know you
I didn’t expect to be where I am today – Owner, Manager and Trainer at an F45 Studio where on most days, I get to be the first person people see in the morning and sometimes, the last they see at night. Where what we do in our Studio has a marked impact on people’s lives beyond the physical aspect. Where working 18 hour split shifts over 7 days is a rewarding pleasure. It’s where I belong right now.
My professional and personal journey in life has been one of embracing versatility and continuous learning, through both curiosity and necessity. From beginning for a job at 14 to serve ice-creams on weekends, to supporting teams who spearheaded groundbreaking national IT projects, or optimising HR processes for efficiency, to playing a pivotal role in the conception and delivery of automotive market offerings, these roles have always commenced or ended through life’s defining moments; first full time job, a move interstate, return to work after children, and redundancy. They were never handed to me, I always sought and worked exceptionally hard to hone in on each one.
I have built both front end software programs and back end IT servers, supported transitions of national emergency network data, and even watched the clock tick over to 1201am on 1/1/2000 when we all expected the world systems to crash as part of Y2K. I’ve matched people to careers and others to their new homes, and, oversaw port delivery of the very car I collaboratively designed on paper. I have worked with Board Directors, mine Truck Drivers and Japanese overseas counterparts at corporate offices with swish furniture, to mine sites with snakes on the drive in and sheds decked out with second hand furniture.
Outside of the work arena, I enjoy pursuing a wide variety of interests and experiences, and foster the same for my children by travelling, visiting local spaces, and trying experiences outside of our norm such as snorkelling and fishing charters.
Having endured a challenging period in my formative years as a woman and mother, I have had to rebuild and recover internally in order to carve out a path that would lead to a happy and fulfilled future. With this diverse range of experiences now noted on paper, I am reminded of the importance of adaptability, resilience, and unwavering dedication to growth.
// What makes you a Woman to Watch for 2024?
Whilst there are no major projects in the business arena, or grand plans in my personal life for 2024, the intention is to continue empowering others to make positive change, with particular attention and empathy towards women in their 40s where life’s transition can be unsettling. It’s about breaking down the barriers that suggest and see women of this age become shelved for younger and more invigorated females, and often by themselves, with the effects of perimenopause causing anxiety, body aches and pains, and social withdrawl.
As an older woman who is young at heart with a lot left to be and give, and with a now wiser voice, my intention is to remain committed to uplifting others both inside and out of our F45 fitness studio, and speaking the truth of perimenopause along this journey. In a world that often celebrates loud voices, I believe there is immense power in quiet strength, empathy, and genuine human connection.
// If you could share one takeaway from your business or career journey, what would it be?
Authenticity and genuine human connection have a profound impact on your career and life journey. Whether it’s part of your job role, such as it is for me now, or its how you work with your colleagues towards a common goal. Throughout my diverse experiences, whether in HR, IT, Product Planning, or Coaching at F45, I’ve found that meaningful and lasting success stems from fostering authentic relationships and prioritising the well-being of others. By speaking my truth and knowledge respectfully, and wholeheartedly supporting those around me, I’ve been able to create environments where individuals feel valued, empowered, and inspired to thrive that in turn, makes for more open communications and collaborations in relation to work projects. To lead with authenticity and compassion even when not a leader, has not only enriched my professional journey but has also allowed me to make a tangible difference in the lives and careers of others.
// What would being a Woman to Watch mean to you?
To be noted amongst many women, both nominated and not, for doing and being great things, is already an honour and privilege.
Being a Woman to Watch in 2024 would affirm to myself and others, that not everyone can or needs to lead sweeping transformations or reach a visible pinnacle in society or their chosen field to be valued, or be an inspiration to others.
It would serve as a reminder that authenticity, perseverance, and genuine passion for making a positive impact are qualities worthy of recognition and celebration.
// What would you like to see for the future of South Australian women and girls?
There are many programs and movements led by women and girls for the greater good of bringing attention to equal opportunities in the workforce, where women not only feel empowered but are also remunerated adequately for the endeavours they choose. Males/men in power need to take an active role not just in supporting but leading these programs to execution. The collaborative effort is essential for bridging the gender gap in many ways.
At the forefront of my mind, is advocating for healthcare services that address the unique needs and challenges faced by women and girls throughout their life including reproductive health care, mental health support, and access to affordable healthcare resources later in life.
Get in touch with Belinda:
LinkedIn: Belinda D’Ambrosio
Website: F45 Training – Seaford/Aldinga
Check out all of the incredible Women to Watch for 2024 here as their profiles are uploaded throughout the year.
To become an SA Woman Member, check out our Membership Options here.
Follow along on socials! Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
