Lead Facilitator

With over 20 years of rich experience as a fighter, trainer, and respected coach, Sione Fatai brings a wealth of wisdom to the Journey Within program. Sione’s career spans both amateur and professional boxing, coaching national and international fighters, including his dedicated role as head coach of Kingdom Boxing NZ. His unique insight into combat sports has allowed him to mentor countless athletes through the mental and emotional challenges associated with high-level competition. Beyond boxing, Sione has extensive experience with mixed martial arts and kickboxing, serving as a judge, referee, and official across multiple codes. Passionate about fighters' holistic well-being, Sione founded Journey Within to provide the crucial support he wished he had in his competitive days, encouraging open dialogue around mental health and resilience.

Co-Facilitator

Julie Mercury is a respected coach, mentor, and former fighter whose diverse experience in boxing, kickboxing, and martial arts makes her an invaluable co-facilitator at Journey Within. Having competed and coached at both national and international levels, Julie intimately understands the intense mental and physical pressures that athletes face in and out of the ring. Known for her compassionate, supportive approach, she has successfully guided numerous fighters through anxiety, performance pressure, and emotional burnout. Her experience across multiple sporting codes, combined with her ability to relate empathetically to athletes of all backgrounds, positions Julie as a crucial pillar of support within the program. Committed to breaking stigma and fostering resilience, she is dedicated to empowering fighters with the tools they need for both their sporting journeys and their lives beyond competition.