Fitness guru

Lisa Raleigh is our hot seat hot topic this month, and she's openly sharing with us her passion for health and fitness and why she loves helping others reach their best potential.

- Charelle Johnson.

Where did you grow up and what sparked your interest in health and fitness?

I grew up on a farm in Mid Illovo, between DBN and PMB. I was a passionate gymnast and ballet dancer, so I was very disciplined on the exercise and nutrition front. My extra-curricular activities fostered a love for exercise while boarding with different families gave me insight into relationship dynamics, developing my EQ and interest in people and their behaviour. I knew that one day I would love to merge my passion for health and wellness with my love of people.

Tell us a bit about your NGO the LIVERIGHT Foundation and what it's all about.

I began the foundation a few years ago with the intention of helping the needy gain access to health education and resources they required but couldn't afford. We currently only do ad-hoc work at the moment. This requires a lot of effort getting the government on board, pitching tenders, waiting periods, and if we get the work, getting started. The focus is on the implementation of healthy street fairs - with 25 to date. Here, the less affluent areas of Gauteng enjoy entirely free fairs that allowed them to get tested for cholesterol, blood pressure and glucose - with interactive workouts, wellness experts, goodie bags, samples and tasters. We are hoping to slowly grow our services to keep bringing the community free health education and opportunities.

Your online challenge Well I Am', is aimed at helping others reach their fitness goals. Do you have a passion for helping others improve their health, and if so, why?