We love to talk to our members. They always provide us new ways of understanding leisure and that makes us grow as an organization. On this occasion, we talked to Trudie Walters (University of Otago, New Zealand), who was recently elected as a member of the WLO Board of Directors.
In one sentence: What does leisure mean to you?
The ability to choose how, where and with whom I spend my time outside of work (whether paid or voluntary).
What leisure projects, research and/or activities are you involved in?
I research community events and how they impact and benefit marginalized individuals and groups, and second homes (holiday homes) that are used for leisure purposes. In my own leisure time, I enjoy photography, cooking, spending time with friends, reading, gardening, walking – and of course relaxing with my cat!
How do you promote the development of leisure and leisure studies?
I try to incorporate it into my tourism and event management courses, and I am interested in speaking with my local government about incorporating leisure as the focus of development activities – and highlighting the WL Communities of Excellence concept to them!
How did you hear about WLO?
Through a current Board of Directors member who also serves on the Board of a regional leisure studies association with me.
Why did you decide to become a member of WLO?
I saw it as a wonderful opportunity to become more involved with the promotion of leisure on a larger scale, and to be able to make a genuine contribution to the field.
What kind of synergies would you like to develop through your WLO membership?
Become a member and look out for any opportunities to network and build relationships with others who share the same passions!
