How Hobbies Create Communities of Interest

South Wagga Rotary is pleased to welcome Dr Yazdan Mansourian, Senior Lecturer in the School of Information and Communication Studies at Charles Sturt University, for an engaging presentation exploring how hobbies and leisure activities help people build connection and community.

Dr Mansourian studies Serious Leisure — the way people deeply engage in hobbies, volunteering and amateur pursuits such as bonsai growing, knitting, birdwatching and pottery. Over the past six years his research has explored what motivates people to participate in these activities and the meaningful outcomes they experience.

One of the most powerful findings from this research is the role of belonging. Serious leisure brings people together and creates communities of shared interest where individuals feel accepted, valued and connected — something increasingly important for wellbeing in today’s busy world.

Dr Mansourian’s research focuses on the cognitive and emotional aspects of Human Information Behaviour (HIB) and how people seek, share and use information when pursuing activities that bring them joy. His work explores how hobbies, amateurism and voluntary activities foster positive emotions and contribute to overall wellbeing.

This presentation will offer fascinating insights into the role of leisure activities in creating stronger communities and enriching people’s lives.

Visitors are welcome to attend and join the conversation.