Back to Basics for Life Wellness Hub

SHADI

Our founder and proud mum, Shadi is the director and owner of Back to Basics 4 Life, a business built on her passion for health, fitness, and community support. With over 12 years of experience working in both community settings and private practice, she has dedicated her career to helping people of all abilities—including those with special needs—achieve their wellness goals. As a qualified health and fitness professional, Shadi takes a person-centred approach, aiming to build confidence and improve the quality of life for every client and participant she works with. Her mission is to continue making a positive impact through supportive, inclusive, and empowering services.

DEAN

Dean is an incredible team member at Back to Basics 4 Life, working as a dedicated support assistant and allied health assistant alongside occupational therapists. With a strong background as a qualified personal trainer, Dean brings valuable expertise in strength and conditioning, rehabilitation, and functional fitness. He follows recommendations and strategies from a wide range of health professionals to ensure ongoing, high-quality support for clients with special needs. Currently studying to become an occupational therapist, Dean is passionate about expanding his knowledge and is excited to grow within the allied health field while making a real difference in the lives of those he supports.

ISLA

Isla is an experienced personal trainer and Pilates instructor who has been working closely alongside director Shadi to continue developing her skills in the health and fitness space. With a passion for strength training, rehabilitation, weight loss, and muscle building, Isla supports a wide range of clients—including mums, mainstream individuals, and those with special needs—in reaching their personal health goals. Her holistic and client-focused approach makes her a valued team member at Back to Basics 4 Life. To connect with Isla or book in for personal training sessions, follow Isla on Instagram.

LAUREN

Lauren is our incredible counsellor and behavioural therapist at Back to Basics 4 Life. By day, she works full-time in a school setting, supporting children with behavioural challenges and guiding teachers with practical strategies to manage complex situations effectively. In her spare time, Lauren brings her expertise to Back to Basics, where she conducts behavioural observations and clinical sessions with children, teens, and adults. Her focus is on addressing trauma, emotional regulation, and behavioural issues, while also equipping support workers with tools and strategies to better manage and support their participants. Life can be tough, but you don’t have to go through it alone—reach out to Lauren and the Back to Basics team for the support you need.

SKY

Sky is our incredible qualified remedial massage therapist at Back to Basics 4 Life, with a strong background in physical therapy from her time working in Thailand. She supports a wide range of clients—from strength-based and mainstream individuals to those undergoing rehabilitation—using her deep knowledge of both physiotherapy and remedial massage treatments. Passionate about recovery and community-based care, Sky is working towards completing a short course to have her physiotherapy degree recognised in Victoria. Her hands-on experience and dedication make her an invaluable part of the team, helping clients feel stronger, supported, and on track with their wellness goals.

MEL

Melissa is our amazing Operations Manager at Back to Basics 4 Life, bringing over 20 years of experience in leadership, organisational development, human resources, and financial management. She has worked in large organisations, leading seminars and mentoring others to create strong, purpose-driven structures. We’re thrilled to have her on our team as she helps coordinate and manage many aspects of our growing service. Melissa thrives in team environments and loves working within the community, always driven by a strong sense of purpose and a passion for making a difference. Keep an eye out—you’ll be seeing her around!

HOLLY

Holly is a passionate fitness trainer and Reformer and Mat Pilates instructor, dedicated to helping women feel strong, confident, and connected to their bodies. She focuses on building strength, improving movement, and creating sustainable results through a balanced approach to training and wellness.

With a special interest in supporting mums, pregnancy, and postnatal journeys, Holly also provides simple nutrition and food prep guidance to support weight loss and overall wellbeing. Her approach is supportive, personalised, and centred around long term results. To connect with Holly or book in for personal training sessions, follow her on Instagram.

MECIAN

Mecian is Shadi’s incredible Executive Assistant and a vital part of the Back to Basics 4 Life team. Based in the Philippines, Mecian was discovered and mentored by Shadi, who encouraged her to pursue her own business journey. Since then, she’s grown into an experienced and highly skilled professional with over five years working alongside Shadi. Mecian plays a key role in managing operations, administration, and client communications, all while running her own successful online business. Her passion for purpose-driven work, team collaboration, and supporting small businesses shines through everything she does. We’re so lucky to have her as part of the Back to Basics family—be sure to follow and support her business on Instagram.