Meet Shamini, Area Manager for the Illawarra South Coast region at MTC FutureReady. With a global upbringing across Singapore, New Zealand and Australia, she brings a culturally rich perspective and the energy of someone who still feels 21 at heart. She comes from a mixed‑race background (Indian and Chinese) and can trace her heritage to many parts of Asia. This rich cultural diversity is something she values deeply and has helped foster her adaptability, cultural awareness, and strong appreciation for multicultural communities. 

When she was 26 years old, Shamini set off on what was supposed to be a short holiday in Europe, which instead became an unexpected and enriching 3.5‑year experience. During this time, she lived, worked, and taught in Sweden, England, and Scotland. This experience strengthened her professional skills and deepened her appreciation for international living, adaptability, and cross‑cultural communication. It was also during this working holiday that she met her now husband—and even had a few memorable encounters with celebrities, including Henry Cavill (Superman) and Tim McInnerny (Notting Hill, Blackadder). 

Can you tell us about your MTC journey? 

Although I majored in TESOL, my career journey has been quite diverse and multidimensional. Alongside my education background, I hold a Diploma in Accounting/Business Studies and a Certificate IV in Leadership and Management, which has allowed me to build both strong teaching and operational skills. 

Though the majority of my career has been in the education field, I’ve also worked across a wide range of industries, including at a radio station, a law office, a car dealership, and admin support at various corporate organisations. My main career experiences have been teaching across various tertiary programs such as ELICOS, IELTS preparation, LLNP, and ultimately the SEE program. I also did a few years of early childhood and primary school teaching in Sweden and the UK. 

What inspires you and why?

Working mums inspire me.
As a working mum myself, I understand firsthand how challenging it can be to manage competing priorities in life. Balancing work, family, and personal goals requires resilience, sacrifice, and strong organisation. I am particularly inspired by mothers who not only devote quality time and care to their children but also lead by example as independent women with ambitions and fulfilling careers. Seeing women successfully navigate both roles resonates deeply with me and motivates me to continue striving for balance and growth in my own life. 

What boundaries have you learned to set as your career has progressed? 

As my career progresses, I am learning how to set clearer boundaries around work–life balance by protecting my energy, managing expectations, and prioritising my wellbeing and that of my family and friends. This being said, it is still something I struggle with and is a work in progress. I remind myself that it’s okay to not be perfect and to make mistakes; they are part of learning and growth. Most importantly, I remember that the best person to take care of me is me.  

What helps you stay motivated during challenging periods? 

I take it one hour at a time. Focusing on the satisfaction of solving problems as they arise, looking for the silver lining in challenging situations, and reflecting on the lessons I’m learning along the way. This helps me stay grounded and move forward steadily, even during difficult periods. I enjoy debriefing with others and giving myself time to process challenges, rather than rushing through them. I intentionally focus on the good things in my life and on what I do well, which helps me maintain perspective. This approach allows me to avoid ruminating on negatives or perceived gaps and instead stay grounded, resilient, and forward‑focused during difficult periods. 

What is the best advice you have ever received?

The best advice I’ve ever received “If you do it now, it’s already done!” I don’t like to procrastinate and love efficiency. I’m also a big believer in working smarter, not necessarily harder, and putting my time and energy into what really makes a difference. 

What would you say to your 21-year-old self? 

I’d tell my 21‑year‑old self “to keep life simple, but aim big and make each day count.” Focus on what really matters, don’t overcomplicate things, and be present in what you’re doing.