As part of our #WEAREAUSactive campaign, we continue to spotlight the remarkable stories of AUSactive members making a lasting impact in the exercise and active health industry.
This week, we are proud to feature Siona Fernandes, a Melbourne-based exercise professional whose journey spans continents, cultures and disciplines.
From classical Indian dance to Olympic boxing, and from academic research to personalised coaching, Siona brings a holistic understanding of movement and wellbeing to her work.
Importantly, her lived experience shapes her mission. She believes meaningful and individualised movement can transform both body and mind.
As a migrant professional, Siona has built her practice from the ground up. At the same time, she balances PhD research, client care and advocacy for culturally diverse communities.
Her story is a powerful reminder that authenticity, resilience and curiosity drive both personal and professional growth. As a result, she continues to empower others not just to move better, but to live better.
Meet Siona Fernandes
How long have you been a member of AUSactive?
I have been a member of AUSactive since 2019. This builds on more than ten years as a registered exercise professional in New Zealand.
What motivated you to pursue a career in the exercise and active health industry?
My motivation is deeply rooted in lived experience. I have seen how meaningful movement can transform both the body and the mind.
I began with classical Indian dance, Bharatanatyam, which I practised for nearly 17 years. This taught me the strong connection between movement and holistic health.
Later, after moving to New Zealand, I took up competitive boxing. As a result, I developed both physical and mental strength while learning to overcome fear and self-doubt.
Following my experience as an Olympic athlete, I completed a Master’s in Sport and Exercise. This deepened my knowledge and strengthened my commitment to exercise science.
These experiences showed me that movement is not one-size-fits-all. Instead, it should be meaningful, sustainable and tailored to each individual.
Today, I apply this approach when working with clients. I design personalised programs to support their goals, whether that is building strength, improving performance or enhancing overall wellbeing.
Seeing clients gain confidence and improve their quality of life continues to motivate me every day.
What qualifications do you hold?
My academic qualifications include:
- Master of Psychology
- Master of Sport and Exercise
- Bachelor of Performing Arts
- Doctoral Candidate (Sport, Exercise and Public Health)
Certifications include:
- Certificate in Personal Training
- Certificate in Fitness Instruction
What has your journey as an exercise professional looked like so far?
My journey began in New Zealand. I started as a gym instructor and group fitness instructor before moving into personal training.
During this time, I also competed as an elite athlete while completing my Master’s degree.
Now based in Melbourne, I work as a registered exercise professional and personal trainer. In addition, I provide cross-disciplinary support to help clients improve their health and wellbeing.
I also mentor young people through tailored exercise programs. As a result, I help them build confidence, resilience and life skills.
Alongside this, I continue my PhD research. This allows me to contribute to public health and the broader exercise industry.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Personally:
- Continuing despite setbacks
- Staying true to my values
- Remaining curious and committed to growth
- Supporting others along the way
Professionally:
- Building a diverse career across countries and disciplines
- Competing in Olympic-level sport
- Supporting clients to improve mobility and performance
- Contributing to community health through exercise
What has been your biggest challenge?
One of my biggest challenges has been building a career in a new country without an established network.
This became even more difficult during COVID-19. At the same time, I was balancing PhD studies, client work and limited income opportunities.
How did AUSactive support you?
AUSactive supported my development through free, online and self-paced education modules.
As a result, I was able to continue learning while managing academic and work commitments.
What advice would you give to someone entering the industry?
The impact of an exercise professional lies in making a meaningful difference, even for one person.
To do this, both education and real-world experience are essential.
My advice:
- Start with certifications and continue learning
- Combine study with practical experience
- Focus on understanding what works and why
- Build genuine relationships with clients
“We are not just helping people move better. We are helping them live better.”
What is your favourite part of your job?
What I value most is:
- The flexibility to create balance
- Seeing real client transformations
- Applying knowledge in meaningful ways
This gives my work a strong sense of purpose and fulfilment.
What has been your highlight as an AUSactive member?
Being featured in this spotlight is a meaningful highlight.
It acknowledges my journey and reinforces a sense of belonging. This is especially important as someone who has built a life in a new country.
AUSactive provides recognition, credibility and support. In addition, the team’s encouragement has made a lasting impact.
📸 Snapshots from her journey:
- Performing as a classical Indian dancer
- Competing in Boxing at the 2012 Olympic Games
- An official national Australian Referee and Judge
- Inspiring youth through school visits as an Olympian
- Serving as a National Olympic Sport Ambassador
- Training and supporting her personal training clients
- Sharing knowledge as an academic speaker
- Celebrating her achievement as a Master of Sport and Exercise awardee and recently passing her doctoral candidacy examination
📷 Images © Siona Fernandes. Image #5 © Archivist Media.
Check out Siona's AUSactive profile here.
