Leah Newbury joined the Bodhgaya Development Association (BDA) Committee in 2024, bringing with her a background in Marketing, Technology and Guest Experience. The BDA raises funds for the Prajna Vihar School and several charitable projects in the vicinity of Bodhgaya. In January 2025, she travelled to Bodhgaya for the first time, a journey that shaped her understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the region. She describes the experience as one that offered perspective and strengthened her commitment to grassroots support.

Leah is passionate about the rights and empowerment of women and children, both in Australia and abroad. She follows issues such as domestic violence and access to education closely, and is particularly drawn to the impact of sewing centres as tools for skill-building and financial independence.

With a strong belief in cross-cultural connection, Leah is dedicated to raising awareness among Australian communities about the ongoing needs in Bodhgaya.