My goal is to foster an inclusive, diverse community where everyone can belong and be heard.
As a dedicated community member, I am running for council to ensure every voice is heard. We’ve all faced challenges that make us feel isolated or misunderstood. Life’s journey can lead us to unfamiliar territories that only a few people are acquainted with.
These life circumstances include but are not limited to, facing financial struggles, disability, sickness, being a migrant, job loss, loneliness, victims of abuse, being silenced and holding differing opinions.
As a fellow resident, I have experienced hardship, loss, victories and resilience. My journey has included overcoming university struggles, coping with sibling and parent loss, experiencing pregnancy challenges, coping with life-threatening health diagnoses, struggling to find suitable employment to match my qualifications and surviving the 2022 flood, where our home was surrounded by water, among others.
I believe my experiences enable me to relate to others facing similar challenges. I have also celebrated wins and blessings, including my loving family — my husband and three beautiful children, education and professional breakthroughs. I’m here to celebrate your successes, too.
Council representatives should be relatable, empathetic and understanding. We need councillors who’ve walked in our shoes and can connect with grassroots communities. I am committed to effective communication, supporting vulnerable communities, promoting diversity and inclusion for all, and supporting every member and visitor of our community. My service to our community will be through shared experiences.
Effective councillors must embody a servant-hood spirit, prioritising community needs over personal ambition. As a healthcare professional since age 19, I’ve served our community in various capacities, including as a personal carer. I’ve witnessed community members at their most vulnerable and resilient moments. This experience has taught me that genuine leadership requires empathy, active listening and understanding.
As a community leader, I recognise that people crave connection and validation. Our community deserves councillors who spend quality time engaging with residents, listen attentively to concerns and ideas, and prioritise community needs above personal interests. My professional background has prepared me to understand and resolve complex social issues, foster meaningful relationships, drive positive change and remain resilient during challenges.
I’m committed to serving our community with compassion, humility and dedication. The 2022 floods highlighted the importance of connected leadership. As your representative, I’ll work with our council to ensure it stays in touch with community needs, responds to concerns and proactively addresses challenges.
Our community has faced tough times: COVID-19, rate rises, floods, mental health concerns and crime. It’s time to unite despite our differences and opinions, embracing restoration. Our young people and the future rely on us. The decisions we make now will shape tomorrow. My desire is to see One Greater Shepparton, thriving through kindness, tolerance and understanding.
I humbly appeal to Balaclava Ward to trust me as your representative. Vote for me as your number one choice, and I will utilise this opportunity to work with other councillors to unite our community.
Rudo Makombe, candidate for Balaclava Ward