ABOUT ME
“We should all live as though someone is writing a book about us.”― J.R. Rim
INTRODUCING…
Hello there!
My name is Kaelan Virel, a creator/builder, dreamer, thinker, introvert and the heart behind this site. Born in Samoa but raised in New Zealand for 40 years. My journey has been a mix of challenges and triumphs. Lessons that shaped who I am today. Moving to Auckland at 15, I had to adapt quickly to a new culture and language, leaning on resilience and curiosity to navigate my path.
Life has been anything but ordinary. From growing up in a lively household of eight (the youngest of the pack) to becoming a husband, dad and granddad.
Along the way, I’ve embraced curiosity and a love for learning, which led me to become a “Researchpreneur“, a seeker, someone who digs for knowledge, truth and ideas and transforms them into tools (solutions) for personal growth, especially to help others grow.
This site is more than just a platform. It’s an extension of my belief that life is about constant evolution. It’s proof that if I, a kid who barely spoke English at 15, can thrive and build a meaningful life, then so can you.
Here, you’ll find inspiration, resources and stories designed to empower you to dream bigger. Grow stronger. And live better. Together, let’s embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories and craft a life worth living.
Let’s grow, dream and build something amazing, starting today!
CREATIVITY AND SKILLS
(Career & Business)
After just over two decades in the Service & Trade (Building) Industry, I retired as a Multi-Installer Specialist.
My journey began as a low-paid labourer in Auckland, New Zealand where I learned the ins-and-outs of building constructions. With no formal training, just curiosity and perseverance. From there (general labouring), I progressed straight to aluminium windows & doors to self-closing doors & gates (for kids’ safety) to locksmithing.
Each role taught me skills and resilience.
In 2011, I moved to Melbourne, Australia and eventually evolved into a series of entrepreneurial ventures, from installing fencing to installing epoxy floors and hygienic product setups.
Each blending practicality with creativity, honing into valuable skills that shaped my path.
In November 2020, I returned to New Zealand, closing that chapter to focus on sharing my research (knowledge, wisdom and understanding) to the world, launching new projects, giving back to the community and developing exciting projects that will soon be revealed here.
WELLNESS
(Health & Fitness)
Looking back at the late ’80s and ’90s, sport was my life. Rugby, cricket, athletics, you name it. I was all in. But rugby, in particular, left its mark on me – the feel of the mud and the intensity of a tackle. Those moments are etched in my bones.
In 1995, I shifted gears into bodybuilding, focusing on classic athletic styles. Three years of intense training. And pushing myself hard out without much knowledge of nutrition proved that sheer grit could get you far.
In that case, my crowning achievement was winning the 1997 Mr. New Zealand Samoa Junior, followed by a 3rd–place finish at the 1997 Mr. World Natural Junior in Auckland.
But after that, something changed. The excitement faded, and the competitive drive dwindled. So, I walked away. No drama! Just done!
Besides bodybuilding, I also had many other achievements, but there’s no need to add them here. These are just the highlights of one of my achievements – perseverance and determination.
Next up, I delved into personal training at Club Physical Gyms in Auckland. This new chapter focused less on aesthetics and more on longevity and balance.
My approach? Stick to the raw stuff – real food and real exercise. Forget the obsession with six-packs. The goal is to feel alive. Climb a hill without gasping. Or join a variety of sports or games to keep up with the younger crowd.
For me, health is not just physical, it’s mental too. These days, I explore holistic approaches, avoiding the quick-fix mentality that’s so prevalent today.
The natural (raw) methods have more to teach us than we often realise are the simpler.
ENTHUSIASM
(Passion & Hobbies)
My journey has been one of constant reinvention.
After leaving a mark in bodybuilding, it opened many unexpected doors where I found myself diving into other creative pursuits, like TV filming roles, fashion shows, men’s modelling contestant events and photo shoots (magazine industry, university art projects, etc.).
The surreal feeling of being part of all these events stuck with me. But my true passion lies in brainstorming and creativity, like starting new projects, meditating in music and creating ideas. I am constantly looking for inspiration.
My content writing has evolved from my passionate hobby – Research. It’s a way I share my insights to encourage others to live simpler, healthier, happier and wiser lives.
When I’m not working on a project, you will find me either daydreaming, reading, napping or tidying up the house or the yard. It calms and clears both mental and physical clutter.
But when it comes to my family, they always remain the centre of my life.
INSIGHTS
(Wisdom & Philosophy)
For me, life is not complicated. It’s like my favourite old sweater – comfortable, relaxing and real. It’s a choice we all make individually. But at the centre of everything, Integrity is my foundation. Without it, I lose my way.
- My motto is very simple to understand: “Be careful of the damage!” As weird as it may sound, it does help me think through my decision.
- It’s not about being afraid to do something, it’s about knowing that small actions can make a big difference.
- I owe much of who I am today to my parents. My dad instilled in me the importance of staying true to my Values, while my mom encouraged me to pursue my passion without hesitation.
- Hope, Faith and Passion are what keep me going. They’re my fuel through every challenge life throws my way.
- Mistakes? I’ve made more than I can count. But growth is messy, and that’s okay. It’s the imperfections that make life beautiful, right?
If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, trust me, I’ve been there and done that. So let’s build a life we love – scratches, dents and all.