Dr Siona Fernandes OLY
Sport. Culture. Health. Performance.
Scholar · Olympian · Exercise Practitioner
PhD | MSc Psychology | MSc Sport & Exercise | Bachelor of Performing Arts
I bring together the discipline of an Olympian, the curiosity of a researcher, and the perspective of a culturally diverse woman working across sport, exercise and health.
My work asks a simple question:
How can sport and movement become more meaningful, accessible and inclusive for more people?
Where lived experience meets evidence
Siona brings together perspectives that rarely exist in one place:
- Olympic experience
- PhD level research with interdisciplinary academic qualifications.
- Accredited exercise expertise
- Cultural understanding
- Industry coaching and mentoring
Siona connects evidence with lived experience to create advice and programs that are practical, relevant and inclusive.
A different perspective on performance
Performance is not only about winning. Health is not only about motivation.
Both are shaped by culture, identity, access, environment, relationships and the opportunities people are given.
That is where my work begins.
I work with:
Individuals
Building confidence, healthier routines, andsustainable goals through culturally informedcoaching and mentoring.
Athletes and professionals
Developing resilience, perspective, performancehabits, and direction beyond short-term results.
Organisations and communities
Creating more inclusive approaches to sport,exercise, health and participation.
Universities, media, and events
Sharing research and lived experience through collaboration, speaking, workshops and commentary.
My work includes:
- Research focused collaboration
- Coaching and mentoring
- Speaking and industry engagement
- Media and public engagement
- Writing and reflection
RESEARCH FOCUSED COLLABORATION
Research examining the intersection of sport, exercise, culture and migration to promote good health and wellbeing and reducing inequalities through policy and practice across sport, health and the exercise sector.
Published: 2026
Fostering Equity in and Through Sport: A Content Analysis of Sports Policies for Migrants in Australia. Health Promotion Journal of Australia. Read Abstract
View Research Portfolio
COACHING & MENTORING
Practical, culturally informed support for exercise, athletes, students, researchers and professionals.
Explore Coaching and Mentoring
SPEAKING & INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENT
Speaking engagements across academic, community, sporting and industry settings, drawing on experience as a scholar, Olympian and practitioner.
MEDIA & PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Explore Media Profile
