Source: Eastern Institute of Technology
3 days ago
After completing the New Zealand Certificate in Exercise at EIT, Joe Tangira is now working at the YMCA Gisborne, helping deliver free exercise classes for the community.
The 21-year-old enrolled in the level 4 programme early last year, drawn to the opportunity to become a personal trainer and begin building a future in the fitness industry. His interest was influenced by his parents, who previously worked as personal trainers.
“I wanted to do something along those lines. It gave me a reason and a direction for what I wanted to do.”
Originally from Gisborne, Joe (Ngāti Porou) completed his schooling at Gisborne Boys’ High School. His initial plan had been to study at
EIT’s Hawke’s Bay campus in Taradale, but those plans changed during the year Cyclone Gabrielle struck.
“During the cyclone, my parents called and told me to come home, so I flew back and stayed in Gisborne.”
After taking a short break, Joe decided the time felt right to return to study locally and enrolled at EIT Tairāwhiti.
Since completing the programme, he has secured work at the YMCA Gisborne, where he works at reception and supports a range of community fitness classes.
“It’s a foot in the door. It’s one step closer to my big dream.”
That long-term goal is to one day own his own gym.
Alongside his work, Joe continues to train regularly, spending time in the gym and practising jujitsu, a sport he has been involved in for nearly five years.
Joe says the programme helped him build knowledge not only for supporting others, but also for better understanding his own health and wellbeing.
“I learned what fuels my body for training and what types of food help me get through the day.
He would encourage other students to consider studying at EIT, particularly because of the support services available.
“They help in heaps of different ways. Whether you’re struggling with study or things outside of study, there’s support there.”
Todd Rogers, Head of School Trades and Technology, said: “One of our goals is producing work ready graduates for industry, and Joe is an excellent example of this”.
“The Gisborne YMCA is an outstanding place of work for our graduates to develop their trade as personal trainers.”
