I was born in a much simpler era when smartphones were still unheard of. I have been a hustle queen since I was five years old. I started out as a radio talent, freelance writer, web developer, performing artist, and dance instructor while still at school. After graduation, I added fitness and sports trainer, group exercise leader, and personality development and public speaking coach to my skill set.
I completed my basic education at West Visayas State University. I have a tertiary degree in Business Administration, Major in Marketing, from the University of the Philippines, and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Guimaras State University.
I was formally schooled in Ballet, Gymnastics, Latin Ballroom, Hawaiian-Polynesian and Classical Interpretative dance. In martial arts, I have degrees in Wushu Sanshou, Tai Chi and Hung-Gar. I have also trained extensively in Karate, Muay Thai, Wing Chun and Arnis. My athletic background includes Dance Sport, basketball, soccer, table tennis, and track and field.
I am a published author under variants of my maiden (Shirley Siaton) and married names (Shirley Parabia). For a full list of my books available worldwide, please visit my Amazon Author Page. I also have a comprehensive downloadable reading guide and checklist.
I have received awards in Literature (Stevan Javellana Foundation), Journalism (Philippine Information Agency, West Visayas State University), Sports (University of the Philippines, Philippine Sports Commission) and Leadership (Ayala Foundation, Rotary) in acknowledgment of my work in different fields of endeavor. My essays/columns, fiction, poetry and reviews have been printed in numerous print media since 1995. I have written and directed two theatrical plays staged in Iloilo City, Philippines: Gisi (“Torn”) and Tatsulok (“Triangle”).
I am certified under the standards of the University of Cambridge as an Examinations Officer. I got a perfect score of 9.0 in my IELTS and 95.95 in my Philippine Civil Service qualification exam.
I am a black belt in Shotokan Karate under the Philippine National Judo Karate Jujitsu Association. I am a certified Group Exercise professional and teach classes in Aerobics, Aqua Fitness, Cardio Kickboxing, Kung-Fu, Mixed Martial Arts, Zumba, Bokwa, TRX Suspension, Piloxing, Pound and Strong Nation. I am certified as an Advanced Level Instructor for Les Mills International in the programs of RPM (indoor cycling), BodyBalance/BodyFlow (yoga, pilates, tai chi fusion), BodyPump (total body workout with light weights), BodyCombat (martial arts-inspired cardio) and Tone (cardio, weights and core). I have previously served as the Tribe Coach for Oman and an Assessor of Les Mills Middle East.
I am the Head Trainer of the BSM Gladiators Martial Arts and Fitness Community Club. I am a CrossFit trainer and athlete, as well as a certified Powerlifting coach.
I moved to the beautiful Sultanate of Oman in 2007 with my husband, Peter, and have lived and worked in the capital city of Muscat since. We have two beautiful baby girls named Arya and Selene. I currently work in education and wellness. I also have my own publishing business.
I discovered my passion for cooking in 2013 and am currently expanding my knowledge, skills and experience in the culinary arts. I take pride in my Philippine, Chinese and Italian dishes, which always have an Asian Fusion twist due to my travels throughout the continent.
I am actively blogging to chronicle my adventures in life as much as I can through images and words. I am also writing a lot of books, so keep an eye out for those.
My charity and volunteer work involves traveling whenever I could to promote my advocacy of a healthy lifestyle. I have conducted group exercise classes and given talks to share my experiences in fighting obesity and getting into a regular fitness habit.
