Kael found purpose

WORDS BY MEGAN WOOLFE PHOTOS BY JARROD EMMERSON

Kael spent all of his spare moments reading books on yoga theory and Buddhism. The teachings resonated with him and gave him clarity he’d been missing. Feeling more in touch with his thoughts and feelings, he was nurturing the inner world that he’d neglected in the past. When he started teaching yoga classes, he weaved in the philosophical elements that he’d learnt and they were very well received.

Meanwhile, running his company each day, he felt pushed into an opposing world. Long hours and stress left him feeling despondent, unfulfilled and trapped. He says, “Yes, I could buy anything that I wanted, but I couldn’t buy happiness.” He adds, “It took a lot for me to let go of something that was supposedly a token of success.” Finally, he knew he had to pursue what gave him joy and purpose and so he sold his business.

Kael now feels free and energised by his strong desire to help others. He spends most days in his ‘Tribe MMA’ gym, where he incorporates a fusion of martial arts, yoga, meditation and breathwork to guide people of all ages to improve their physical and mental health. Often people join his classes because they’ve tried other gyms but felt something was missing. Kael offers a more holistic approach, based on individuals’ needs.

His classes for children and teenagers are becoming increasingly popular. They have many benefits but the thing that parents comment on the most is the boost in their son or daughter’s confidence.

Kael started facilitating Secondary School workshops last year. Being a martial arts champion, he gains instant respect from the students. He shares his personal and relatable experiences, facilitates discussions, incorporates movement activities and makes meditating cool.

His workshops empower teenagers with knowledge and strategies to help them to make wise decisions and improve their well-being. Word has spread fast about the positive impact his workshops have and he now runs programs for secondary schools throughout Gippsland.

Kael’s eyes light up when he says, “To make a difference and steer teens in the right direction, it fills me up and I enjoy it so much. To get paid for it is just an added bonus.”