Fiona Pereira
Retirement Home Instructor
I’ve dedicated over two decades to practicing Tai Chi, starting with the Taoist Tai Chi Society of Canada and continue under the guidance of Patrick Leung – Tai Chi Journey Lead Instructor. In my journey, Tai Chi has become a non-competitive, dynamic, and meditative practice that demands full dedication and perseverance, not costly equipment. The benefits are improved balance, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive as well as memory functions.
Currently, I assist our MTCJ Instructor, Ron, with seated Tai Chi sessions at the Ivano Franko Home for Ukrainian seniors. It is incredibly fulfilling to witness the seniors’ enthusiasm to participate despite their mobility challenges, and they always greet us with joy.
In addition to Tai Chi, my hobbies include reading, playing the ukulele, gardening, and sewing.
Melanie Dias
Location Leader/Administrator
As the Administrator and Location Leader, my primary responsibility is to act as a liaison between the Church secretary and the core group of MTCJ members, coordinating the planned activities of our club.
This includes but not limited to keeping track of membership dues, member registration process, attendance, insurance, church hall rental and lease renewals and other financial matters.
I have been practicing Tai Chi and Qigong since 2019. I was a candidate for knee surgery but regular and continued Tai Chi practice has helped heal my knee.
My other interests include sewing, knitting and gardening.
Kipson Noronha
Retirement Home Instructor
Since 2006, I have been practicing Tai Chi, which, along with Qigong, keeps me physically agile, mentally sharp, and motivated. Each session leaves me feeling relaxed, serene, and better equipped to handle stress.
Teaching seated Tai Chi and Qigong in senior retirement homes is immensely rewarding. Despite their mobility challenges, the seniors’ resolve and enthusiasm as they perform the movements are inspiring. It’s comforting to know that Tai Chi and Qigong can help them feel stronger, revitalized, and more balanced.
My hobbies extend beyond Tai Chi and Qigong; I also delight in traveling, taking nature walks, and gardening.
Goretti Noronha
Administration Support
Having recently retired from the corporate sphere, I now have the freedom to relax, travel, and indulge in my passions. With over two decades of Tai Chi practice, I’ve experienced significant physical improvements, particularly in strengthening my lower back and leg muscles, as well as enhanced balance. On a mental level, Tai Chi has been instrumental in sharpening my memory and focus.
Over the years, I have dedicated time to volunteering at the Mississauga Central Lions Club. Presently, I am aiding Melanie Dias, the MCTJ location lead, with daily tasks. Additionally, under the mentorship of Silvia Wineland from the Danforth/Beaches Club, I am acquiring skills to manage our website.
Tai Chi Journey Mississauga-Etobicoke is a not-for-profit club. All Core Team members are volunteers and do not receive any remuneration for their work. The funds collected from members are used to cover expenses such as hall rental, insurance, advertising, and other activities that promote our club.