Ali Cavill - Businesswoman. Actor. Ambassador.
Ali Cavill’s career has followed a trajectory of success underpinned by a can-do attitude of unwavering optimism and hope that flows into all areas of her life – from managing her business as a fitness instructor at Fit Fantastic to writing, speaking, acting, modelling, and utilising her growing platform as a charity ambassador to bring attention to the causes closest to her heart. ‘I’m in the business of transforming lives by giving people the support, knowledge, coaching and skills to succeed in health and fitness, which can easily transfer into other areas of their lives.’
Ali’s platform as a springboard for charitable causes
Ali utilises her platform to advance the cause of charities she is passionate about including Dementia Australia, MND Australia – the national peak body for care, advocacy and research into Motor Neurones Disease, and the Fred Hollows Foundation – a charity that aims to eliminate avoidable blindness. ‘As an ambassador, I support the mission of each charity not just through my participation in physical endurance events, but by sharing the journey openly and meaningfully. For The Fred Hollows Foundation, I took part in the 34km Sydney Harbour Hike - representing the cause and placing 1st in the Women’s Division and 3rd overall.’
‘I have a deep belief in using my energy to create an impact beyond myself, channelling my passion for mental and physical endurance into purpose-driven action.’ This is especially poignant when the causes Ali supports are meaningful to her on a personal level. ‘These particular causes are fuelled by the memory of my uncle and grandmothers.’ For the second year running, Ali also plans to run the Sydney Marathon for MND Australia in memory of her uncle later this month, who passed away from this debilitating and currently incurable disease.
‘Alongside the kilometres and finish lines, I share candid stories, reflections, and photos from training and race day—using social media as a platform to raise awareness, celebrate resilience, and explore the human side of each cause. As the national ambassador and fitness lead for Dementia Australia’s Memory Walk & Jog circuit, I’ve had the honour of being on stage at events across the country, energising the crowd, connecting with other participants, and delivering messages that matter. Every event is a chance to listen, learn, and help others feel part of something bigger.’
Determination, drive and commitment
One of Ali’s most moving experiences in her charitable journey was the opportunity to participate in an incredible 10-day trek along the Great Wall of China in 2019 on behalf of Kiss Goodbye to MS and the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. ‘Just days before COVID hit, it became my last major overseas expedition before a long pause on global travel and an unforgettable way to finish that chapter. Alongside 22 others, I trekked through remote villages and tackled the most unrestored sections of the Wall, climbing vertical soldier turrets, over rocks and navigating narrow, unfenced cliff edges that demanded both physical and mental grit.’
What truly inspired Ali during the trek was the lack of complaint from the individuals she trekked alongside with who were themselves living with MS. ‘They powered through with unwavering strength and determination. Their resilience left me in awe, and there were moments I was moved to tears, not from the effort, but from deep admiration. I returned to Australia not only proud of what we had accomplished, but also with lifelong friendships and connections across the globe - a powerful reminder of what shared purpose and human spirit can achieve. Not to mention, the delicious Chinese feasts we had at the end of each day!’
A self-proclaimed ‘unwavering optimist’ at heart, Ali’s ‘childlike disbelief’ that she can’t or won’t complete in something help her overcome moments of doubt or discouragement. ‘I’ve always found strength in challenge, and pushing through pain or discomfort often leaves me more fulfilled than the finish line itself.’ Alongside that mindset, Ali stays grounded through daily habits that support her wellbeing: meditation, nourishing food, regular exercise, and hypnotherapy have all played a part. ‘I’m a morning person, thrive on routine, and make space for the small joys like sunrises, a good book, and quiet moments of gratitude.’
It is the same sense of optimism and purpose that enables Ali to juggle the demands of managing her own personal training business - Fit Fantastic - with her other roles as writer, coach, influencer and brand and charity ambassador. How does she fit it all in? ‘Starting the day as part of the 4am club means I’m already ahead of the game!’ she said. ‘It gives me a good couple of hours of calm and clarity to prepare for whatever lies ahead. I have to be organised, efficient, and avoid procrastinating. Those early hours are sacred for me to research, learn, connect and explore with absolute, intense curiosity. All of this combined helps me recalibrate, reset, and remember why I started.’
Ali and the stories that have shaped her
As an avid reader since the age of four, Ali is also inspired by books and prioritises making time to read daily. ‘Daily reading is a constant in my life. The first book that truly inspired me was The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay. Its story of resilience and self-belief struck a chord, reminding me how much mindset shapes our journey - something I relate to deeply, as I never stop moving and have always believed in the power of pushing through both physical and mental challenges.’ Ali was also inspired by Wild Swans by Jung Chang. ‘That hit me hard – especially with having been born in Hong Kong, living there in my earliest moments. The powerful exploration of family, history, and endurance through hardship felt deeply personal and eye-opening.’ She also deeply connects with the story of Eddie Jaku, an author and Holocaust survivor who wrote The Happiest Man on Earth. ‘His memoir is a profound testament to hope, gratitude, and finding joy despite unimaginable adversity. Eddie’s outlook reminds me that even in the darkest times, we can choose kindness and optimism as a way forward.’
From what I’ve learned of Ali Cavill so far, it is perhaps unsurprising that Jaku’s memoir resonates so deeply with the eternal optimist in her – for where there is optimism there is hope, determination and perseverance – all qualities needed to advance the causes of the charities she stands alongside and supports – with a generous helping of grit. So, what’s next for Ali? She’ll be lacing up again this August for Fred’s Big Run to support the Fred Hollows Foundation. To follow her journey, you can find her on Instagram here.