Are you ready for some action? Meet Sigi Pesaleli, also known as ‘Showtime’ Sigi, a former MMA fighter who is now making a difference in South Auckland through his mentoring programme. This 29-year-old Kiwi Samoan is the mastermind behind Desire for Greatness (D4G), an initiative that uses martial arts to empower the community and create positive outcomes.
For the past five years, D4G has been running training sessions in the community. But now, for the first time ever, it will be offered as a mentoring programme in schools. Starting next week, Sutton Park School in Mangere will kick off the nine-week programme, which will culminate in a graduation ceremony.
So, why martial arts? According to Pesaleli, it’s the perfect vehicle to help channel energy in a positive way. With a decade of experience in jiu jitsu, kickboxing, MMA, and boxing, he is now dedicated to using his skills to empower kids and his community.
During the mentoring programme, Pesaleli will be working with 10 students, helping them harness their energy and learn important life values such as respect, discipline, and integrity. But his vision doesn’t stop there. Pesaleli and his partner, Erika, have big plans to expand D4G and bring their mentoring programme to more schools, because they believe that every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive.
When asked about his motivation, Pesaleli shared his motto: ‘Stay hungry, stay hungry.’ He believes that staying hungry and driven is the key to finding your purpose in life. While his focus is currently on helping the youth, he hopes to eventually return to the ring and continue his own fighting journey.
So, get ready for some ‘Showtime’! Sigi Pesaleli is on a mission to empower the youth of South Auckland through the power of martial arts. With his mentoring programme, he is not only teaching self-defense skills but also instilling important values that will shape the future leaders of tomorrow. Let’s support Sigi and his desire for greatness!