The Journey of Genki Fit: A Community-Driven Social Enterprise

Understanding the Concept of a Social Enterprise

Is it just me, or does timing sometimes feel ironic? For five years, I quietly ran Genki Fit without making a cent, often operating at a loss. Every class, every playlist, and every circuit was fueled by my love for fitness and community.

Then, at the beginning of 2025, after I made a profit in 2024, I started advertising Genki Fit for what it truly is: a social enterprise. Strangely enough, that’s when numbers began to dip. It’s wild to me that being more transparent about my model—rather than less—seems to have made some people wary.

Maybe the word threw people off. A “social enterprise” is just a fancy way of saying the money doesn’t go into my pocket; it goes back into the community.

What Genki Fit Stands For

At Genki Fit, that looks like:

• $5 classes staying $5

• Supporting local initiatives and fundraisers

• Keeping fitness affordable and accessible in a small rural town

• Putting on events and sponsoring initiatives I care about

  
  

This past Saturday's Youth Market was put on by me, and activities and games were sponsored by Genki Fit.

It’s the exact same thing I’ve always done, but now it has a name attached.

The Complexity of Community and Money

I think in Australia we’ve got a complicated relationship with money and community. People cheered when Genki Fit looked like a passion project. However, once I put language around it—once I said out loud that this is a social enterprise model—it felt like the vibe shifted.

It's almost like understanding that I don't make money from it made people uncomfortable supporting it, when I thought it would be the opposite. Instead of being celebrated, it got a bit side-eyed.

Is it because it weirds people out that someone is doing something "for free"? Do people not trust others who do something because they love their community and want people to be healthy and happy without strings attached? Who knows!

The Disappointment of Changing Perceptions

I won’t lie. It’s been disappointing to see numbers fall right when I thought being upfront about Genki Fit's purpose would build more trust. It makes me worry that people might miss out on something that was always meant for them.

Here’s the truth: nothing has changed.

Genki Fit is still here to make fitness affordable, welcoming, and fun. It’s still $5 a class. It’s still about bringing people together.

The only thing that changed was me naming what it’s always been: a community-driven social enterprise.

Embracing the True Spirit of Genki Fit

So, if the word social enterprise sounded intimidating, I hope this has unpacked that a little for you.

It’s just Genki. A place where we move, laugh, sweat, and show up for each other. And you’re always welcome. 💪

The Importance of Community Support

Community support is vital for the success of any social enterprise. It’s not just about the money; it’s about building relationships and fostering a sense of belonging. When we support local initiatives, we strengthen our community ties and create a healthier environment for everyone.

Engaging with Local Initiatives

At Genki Fit, we actively engage with local initiatives. This involvement not only helps us stay connected with our community but also allows us to give back in meaningful ways. Whether it's sponsoring events or participating in fundraisers, we believe in the power of collective action.

Keeping Fitness Accessible

Fitness should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. By keeping our classes affordable, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate. This commitment to accessibility is a cornerstone of our mission at Genki Fit.

Building a Supportive Environment

Creating a supportive environment is essential for fostering a sense of community. At Genki Fit, we strive to create a space where everyone feels welcome and valued. Our classes are designed to be inclusive, encouraging individuals of all fitness levels to join in and enjoy the experience.

Conclusion: Join Us at Genki Fit

In conclusion, Genki Fit is more than just a fitness program; it’s a community-driven social enterprise that prioritises the well-being of its members. We invite you to join us in this journey of health, happiness, and community spirit. Together, we can make a difference, one class at a time.

By embracing the true essence of what we do, we hope to inspire others to support local initiatives and foster a healthier, happier community. So come along, and let’s move, laugh, and grow together!