Shawin Maharaj (@mixfitmoves)
A brief description of your POUND journey and story
I started my POUND journey in 2014, walking into my first class curious and leaving inspired to share it. Soon after, I completed my POUND Pro training and began running demos and classes with Crunch Fitness. As a dancer, I instantly connected with the rhythm, energy, and the feeling of a room moving and drumming as one.
Over the years, I’ve taught across Sydney in gyms, schools, and community events, and been part of incredible experiences—from flash mobs at the Royal Easter Show to representing POUND on Australian TV. In 2017, I travelled to Singapore for ICON training, a full-circle moment that led to becoming the first Australian Tour Crew member.
How you’re currently spreading POUND and creating positive impact
What I love most about POUND is how empowering it feels, and that’s exactly what I aim to bring into every class. I share that energy through my local sessions, where even teachers rush in after a long day and leave feeling like rockstars.
I also run workshops for primary school students, where the impact goes even deeper. POUND’s inclusivity and high energy help me connect with kids from all backgrounds, giving them a safe, powerful way to express themselves—even when they don’t have the words.
Any recent events you’ve hosted and/or upcoming events on the horizon
Like many places, the POUND scene in Australia slowed during the pandemic, but after experiencing its impact firsthand, I’ve continued to share it wherever I can. It hasn’t always been easy, but reconnecting with fellow Tour Crew members has reignited my drive to keep the energy alive.
With my passion for education and the power of POUND, I’m looking forward to growing, evolving, and continuing to make a meaningful impact.
A short quote from each of you—advice or words of encouragement for Pros or fellow Tour Crew members
It’s been such a beautiful journey connecting with like-minded people through Tour Crew, not just locally, but all around the world, both in-person and virtually. I feel the impact of POUND every time I teach, and I love its holistic approach to wellness. It’s such an honour to hand someone a pair of Ripstix and give them permission to just let go and rock out. I gained so much from that very first class in 2014: imagine the impact, big or small, your Posse gains from your classes.
