Cerwin Teo - Wellness Advisor
At the age of 32, Cerwin Teo made a momentous decision that would alter the trajectory of his life. Leaving behind the familiarity of his home in Singapore, he set out on a transformative journey to Perth, driven by his passion for wellness and health.
Cerwin's professional path took an unconventional turn as he sought out opportunities in the fitness industry. Despite facing challenges, he remained resolute in his quest to find a role that aligned with his deeply held aspirations and values. This pursuit led him to a fulfilling position as a Wellness Advisor at Brockman 2 in the IFMS Portfolio, where he has consistently proven to be a valuable team member.
Upon his arrival in Perth in January 2020, Cerwin not only immersed himself in his major in Exercise and Sport Science with a focus on Nutrition at Edith Cowen University but also undertook work as a factory worker, showcasing his strong work ethic and determination to pursue his passion.
As Cerwin neared the completion of his degree, a casual conversation with a colleague sparked the idea of exploring a new career path. The prospect of working at a mine site captivated Cerwin, prompting him to delve into this unexpected opportunity. Little did he realise that this decision would herald the beginning of a truly transformative journey.
Unveiling Tomorrow's Opportunities
In December 2022, Cerwin took his first golf swing and has never looked back since. Reflecting on the experience, he vividly remembered telling himself after the first swing, "I’m going to come back," and realising after the second swing, "This is what I want to do."
"That was my moment to shine in my career. It was the start of something new," he added.
"Our role as wellness advisors is multifaceted and ever-changing. We shoulder the responsibilities of an MC, event coordinator, fitness trainer, and more. This demands a versatile skill set that involves various soft skills."
It's been such a truly eye-opening experience. I love telling my friends and family about the great parts of my job - the feeling of 'flying to work,' getting free meals, and having someone there to help out. It's just all about work, relaxing, eating, and doing it all over again. It's pretty cool!
"I vividly recall yearning for something different. I was determined not to settle for being a personal trainer or an influencer. I recognised the need for a change, and now I'm doing what I'm truly passionate about. If you're contemplating something new, seize the opportunity," he confidently said with a smile.
"If I were a student and had a connection in the industry, I would definitely reach out to them for insights. They can provide invaluable assistance”. He also stresses the importance of networking and connections, encouraging others to seek guidance and support from experienced professionals.
"The power of conversation is truly remarkable," he passionately emphasised. “It has the incredible ability to form connections, spark inspiration, and facilitate transformation.”
Turning the Tide
Cerwin has discovered a deep affinity for his role as a mine site wellness advisor, extending beyond traditional fitness training to include event coordination, mental well-being support, and fostering a sense of community among colleagues. This diverse role calls for a broad skill set, which Cerwin has embraced wholeheartedly.
"I am making a change. I have the ability to positively impact someone's life by providing valuable advice and support. Even the smallest piece of guidance can have a significant and lasting effect. It has the potential to create meaningful and positive changes in someone's life, leading to long-term improvements."
"I aim to engage individuals in energising group fitness classes to help them unwind from work-related stress and promote physical and mental well-being. Additionally, I strive to captivate their interest with interactive quiz nights and foster a sense of community through well-organised sports events."
Thriving Through Balance
When I asked Cerwin about his approach to rest and relaxation, he said, "I focus on improving my next swing. I enjoy having 'me time' to relax and recharge. R&R, which stands for Rest and Recovery, is valuable as it helps me reflect and balance my lifestyle. " Cerwin highly values rest and recovery, understanding the importance of balancing work with personal well-being.
Cerwin shared his insights into his wellness perspective, "Don’t rush. Take your time to understand and gather more information. There is a lot of information about fitness, shortcuts, and new methods. It's okay to explore, but if you have any questions or need guidance, please speak to a Wellness Advisor. That's what we are here for," he said.
"Health encompasses various aspects, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Mental health, in particular, is an integral part of overall health and should be given equal attention and importance."
"Let's cut through the clutter and focus on the essentials. With an overload of nutrition information, it's time to simplify. Let's start by tuning in to how I'm feeling today and finding ways to boost my overall health, including taking care of my mental well-being," he shared.
"I always ask the residents and staff the basic questions to help me better understand how I can be the best wellness advisor to them. These questions may be, 'How are you feeling today? Did you get much sleep? Are you staying hydrated?'”
Cerwin's story exemplifies the power of embracing change and pursuing one's passion. His refreshing perspective on health and wellness advocates for simplifying nutrition information and focusing on essential aspects of well-being. As he continues to make a difference in the lives of others, Cerwin serves as an inspiring example of professional fulfilment and dedication to wellness.
