Talal Alshemari

My Journey: From Kuwait to New Zealand

I was Born in Kuwait, I made New Zealand my home in 1995 — a place that shaped my identity and fueled my drive to make a difference. Over the years, I’ve traveled to 48 countries, connecting with over 15,000 people on their mental wellness journeys. In 2019, I was humbled to be nominated for New Zealander of the Year, a recognition of my commitment to helping others.

Life hasn’t been without its challenges. From refugee camps to major cities like Los Angeles and Paris, I’ve faced obstacles in business, family, and health. But through every setback, I’ve learned to adapt, grow, and push forward. My experiences have taught me the value of resilience, the importance of time, and the power of turning challenges into opportunities.

Between 2004 and 2007, I worked as a security guard for some of the largest companies and malls in Auckland, New Zealand. But I knew I wanted more. While on the job —I was thinking about how to improve my life, support my family, and help my mum fight depression. Having overcome so much myself, I felt driven to do something bigger.

In 2007, I reached a turning point and decided to carve my own path. That’s when I founded Coach TA, starting with rugby coaching and sports immersion. It wasn’t easy—skepticism and prejudice were constant hurdles—but I pushed forward, teaching myself website development and attending sports academies to learn from All Blacks legends. By 2010, I teamed up with rugby legend Hika Reid to launch RugbyDraft.com. Within just three months, the platform was drawing 500,000 unique visitors a month. Our first program launched in April 2010, setting the stage for an incredible journey that was only just beginning.

Yet, the road ahead was far from smooth. I encountered skepticism and prejudice, being deemed "too small," "too Arab," and "too hairy" and my favourite one "Not Qualified enough" for local success.

Community Engagement

During this period, Hika Reid and I collaborated to support and empower youth. Despite battling cancer, Hika dedicated his time to our program, laying the foundation for my future endeavors. In 2018, I visited Hika in Rotorua to express my gratitude personally. His mentorship profoundly shaped my journey.

Subsequently, I worked as a Youth Worker and Social Media Developer for an organization in Rotorua. My appointment garnered attention from the NZ Herald, where I was interviewed about my new role and life journey.

Then I got the right attention to work as Youth Worker and Social Media Developer for an organization in Rotorua.

Read my interview with NZ Herald in 2014 about my journey and growth once I secured a position as a youth worker in Rotorua. My appointment garnered the attention of NZ Herald, where I was interviewed about my new role and my journey in life. Click here to read it.

Following that, we established Shadow Academy Ltd.

A friend and I established 'Shadow Academy,' a fitness community hub in Upper Hutt. We collaborated with Work and Income, local organizations, maraes, and schools to offer free training sessions. Many participants have since pursued successful careers as police officers, educators, and personal trainers, both locally and internationally.

Starting in 2009, I also coached rugby programs at local schools, including Upper Hutt College, Heretaunga College, and Bishop Viard College in Wellington. I also managed Shadow Academy's business infrastructure, developing social media platforms and the website, and ensuring the safety and privacy of all stakeholders.

Then in 2016, We Scaled to Prime Fit Academy

You're Never Alone

In 2015, we partnered with businesses to establish two free 24/7 fitness academies in Upper Hutt and Wellington City. Our facilities offered top-notch equipment and supported local trainers in becoming certified. We also developed a cutting-edge app, expanding its user base globally, reaching Tokyo, New Zealand, Dubai, Europe, and Australia.

Nominated for New Zealander for the year

Between 2015 and 2019, I had the privilege of assisting a diverse range of individuals and organizations, contributing to their growth and success. In 2019, I was humbled to receive a nomination for New Zealander of the Year, reflecting my commitment to community engagement and empowerment.

Watch the Video

Then in September 2019, Life Changed for ME

From being nominated New Zealander of the year to homelessness

After being nominated for New Zealander of the Year in 2019, my life took an unexpected turn. I had incredible experiences—appearing on The AM Show, traveling to Los Angeles to learn from Kobe Bryant and his team at Mamba Academy, and building relationships with soccer team owners in Mexico. But when I returned to New Zealand, things quickly fell apart.

My business partners decided to end our community gym partnership and made serious allegations against me. This led to a wave of social media attacks that turned my life upside down. I lost everything—including my home—and spent 16 weeks homeless, fighting to clear my name.

I know that my actions, decisions, and the fallout from this time affected people, and for that, I am deeply sorry. If I caused harm, disappointment, or distress, I take full responsibility. It was never my intention, and I regret any pain I contributed to.

Despite everything, I chose not to respond with anger or blame. Instead, I focused on forgiveness, proving the truth through the right channels, and moving forward with integrity. Eventually, I cleared my name, but the experience changed me forever. I’ve learned hard lessons about resilience, accountability, and the importance of staying true to my values—even in the worst situations.