Yasmina Hage - A passion for life, work and dance

WITH an irrepressible passion and zest for life, local community dietitian Yasmina Hage has been making the most of the short time she has spent so far in Mount Gambier.

Originally from Adelaide, the Flinders University nutrition and dietetics graduate began working at the South East Regional Community Health Service less than a year ago and hasn't looked back.

Despite not knowing anyone when she first arrived in the region, the 24-year-old's positive outlook on life has allowed her to settle in, make friends, enjoy work and call the Blue Lake city her home.

"It was difficult having to move so far away from friends and family but Mount Gambier is such a friendly town and the people at work have been so nice to me," Yasmina says.

Working as a community dietitian, Yasmina draws inspiration from her passion for helping a wide range of people from all different backgrounds and age groups.

"I enjoy my job as every day is diverse: I run group education sessions, take part in Aboriginal health out-clinics, run cooking classes for young people, teach primary and high school students about nutrition, and see clients one-on-one in an outpatient and clinical setting," she says.

"The difference I make to people's lives may be small or quite significant, but just knowing that I have made a contribution to improving their quality of life gives me joy."

Another passion in her life is the ancient art of belly dancing - or Raqs Sharqi "Oriental Dancing" as it is known in Arabic.

Migrating to Australia from Lebanon with her family when she was just five years old, Yasmina grew up with a strong Arabic influence in her life and an appreciation for her culture and traditions.

Yasmina developed a love for Arabic music from an early age and remembers being mesmerised with the talent, elegance and beauty of the belly dancer.

Having danced professionally for many years, Yasmina started teaching belly dancing classes at MJ Dance Studios to help pass on her passion to other women.

"I love being a woman and dancing gives me the confidence to embrace my shape and use my body to express myself," she says, pointing out that contrary to popular belief, belly dancing is generally performed in front of other women, not men.

"It allows me to appreciate my body for what it can do and stops me from being caught up with the media's obsession with weight and body size."

Living life to the fullest, Yasmina says she sees every day as a challenge and an opportunity to learn and to grow.

"I believe it's important for all women to feel passionate about the things in their lives - whatever that may be," she says.

"Whether it's your job, family, art or dance, we all need passions to keep us motivated and inspired."