A TAFE NSW student is encouraging other elite athletes to look to the future and retrain and upskill so they can thrive in their post-sporting years.

According to some studies, most elite sports careers last no more than 10 years, with athletes generally retiring around the age of 34.[1]

Mina Hosseini, a former esteemed speed skater from Iran, is one of many athletes who have successfully prepared for life after sport. She recently successfully transitioned into a new career as a personal trainer with the help of TAFE NSW training.

At just 23 years old, Mina Hosseini had already made a name for herself on the international stage as a speed skater, including at a World Competition in Korea. However, her quest for a new life brought her to the shores of Australia.

Driven by her passion for fitness, the Waitara local decided to turn her love for wellbeing into a rewarding career. After studying a Certificate III and IV in Fitness at TAFE NSW Meadowbank, Mina works as a personal trainer at Fitness First Hornsby. She also owns her own running club to help others reach their fitness goals.

Last year, Mina was awarded a TAFE NSW Statement of Excellence for her commitment to her studies.

“I decided to come to Australia to start a new life and career. Originally, I was working in business and management, but I soon realised my love for fitness is something I wanted to pursue after retiring from sport. The Certificate has helped me turn my passion into a career and I am really enjoying it,” Ms Hosseini said.

“Throughout the course, I gained an insight into what it would be like in the workplace, so I’ve been able to really hit the ground running after graduating. Working as a personal trainer and running my own run club is incredibly joyful and rewarding. I get amazing satisfaction from helping others to move and reach their goals.

“Studying full-time while working two or three jobs wasn’t always easy, but hard work pays off, and the support from my teachers and classmates has been invaluable. When I found out I received the Statement of Excellence, I was shocked. I said, ‘are you sure it’s me?’ But it’s great to be recognised for my hard work.

“Looking to the future, I’m hoping to continue to develop my skills and maybe one day get into sports science, physiotherapy, or medicine so I can continue to make a difference to others.”

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Health and Recreation Sandra Apostolou said Mina's journey from an elite athlete to a qualified personal trainer is a testament to the transformative power of education.

“We take immense pride in Mina's accomplishments and wish her continued success as she continues to make a positive impact on the fitness industry,” Ms Apostolou said.

Media contact: Emma Hughes, Communications Specialist, 0409 618 291, emma.hughes51@tafensw.edu.au