Inspired by her mother's courage, Leading Seaman (LS) Razaz Glaidous is helping foster inclusion and belonging in Navy.

For the Aviation Support Sailor, belonging comes from helping people feel respected and valued. It is through this work that she feels most connected to Navy and driven to make a difference.

Her mother’s journey from Eritrea to Australia, and the resilience she showed building a new life, continues to inspire LS Glaidous.

In 2018, she joined Navy through the Gap Year Program. She did not intend to stay, but changed her mind while serving in HMAS Adelaide. She decided to become a Helicopter Controller and finished her public health degree.

LS Glaidous completed her aviation training in HMAS Albatross in 2019. She then served in HMAS Canberra III and the now decommissioned 808 Squadron. In 2024, she returned to HMAS Adelaide before posting to Training Authority Aviation at HMAS Albatross.

LS Glaidous’s true passion is promoting equity. She does this through her work with the Navy Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Network. The CALD Network is one of 6 diversity reference groups. It supports personnel from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and promotes inclusion.

‘Belonging is a feeling personal to each of us,’ she said.

‘If you feel safe, seen and validated, then chances are you’ll feel as though you belong.’

In 2024, LS Glaidous represented Navy at the ASEAN Regional Plan of Action on Women, Peace and Security. The event was part of Navy’s Indo-Pacific Endeavour in Jakarta.

Having often served in environments where few share her background, LS Glaidous remains committed to helping others feel they belong in Navy.