Our Story – Empowerment Through Health
Who we are? Focus For Life is a growing team of passionate allied health professionals committed to helping individuals and families across Sydney live healthier, more confident lives.
What started in 2019 as a small clinic supporting local seniors in Minto has grown into a multidisciplinary practice offering a range of services — including exercise physiology, physiotherapy, speech pathology and more. Our collaborative, client-centred approach means we tailor every service to suit your goals, lifestyle and needs.
Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, recovering from injury, supporting your child’s development, or working toward better movement and wellbeing — we’re here to help.
With multiple locations and an expanding reach, we’re proud to bring quality allied health care to people and communities all across Sydney (and beyond!).
At Focus For Life, it’s all about you — your goals, your health, and your journey forward.
Our Team
Ali Chaalan
Accredited Exercise Physiologist
Our exercise physiologist Ali completed his Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science at The University of Sydney, before completing his Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology at the same university.
Ali has experience in working with a range of different clients. He enjoys helping his clients reach their full potential and achieve their goals. His interests include the management of metabolic conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity and metabolic syndrome, musculoskeletal concerns like osteoarthritis, chronic pain and work-related injuries, and geriatrics.
Ali has experience working with a wide variety of populations including cardiac, cancer, metabolic, musculoskeletal, pulmonary, mental health and intellectual disability.
Raised in South-West Sydney, he has worked with people of all backgrounds and is fluent in Arabic.
“Think about HOW you can do something, not why you can’t”
Rafli Chandra
Accredited Exercise Physiologist
Rafli graduated from the University of New South Wales in 2022 with a Bachelor of Exercise Physiology. He has supported and worked with a wide range of clients, including those with cardiorespiratory/metabolic, musculoskeletal, or neurological conditions.
Rafli is a firm believer in a holistic biopsychosocial approach to managing health. He believes in blending different forms of physical activity with education and lifestyle management.
The most rewarding aspect of his work? Witnessing clients regain independence and effectively managing their conditions. For Rafli, being part of the rehabilitation process and witnessing individuals rise to their feet again is both fulfilling and motivating. His passion for his profession shines through, and he takes immense pride in empowering his clients to understand and manager their conditions and lifestyles.
Outside of work, Rafli enjoys spending time with family and friends, getting his workouts in at the gym, and playing his favourite sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball and swimming!
“My goal?
To make exercise an enjoyable part of life!”
Mahdi Chaalan
AHPRA Registered Physiotherapist
Mahdi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy from Western Sydney University and is passionate about helping people move better and feel stronger in their everyday lives.
He has a particular interest in musculoskeletal physiotherapy, sports and athletic rehabilitation, chronic pain management, and geriatric care. “My approach is centered on evidence-based treatment, patient education, and tailored rehabilitation plans that empower individuals to take an active role in their recovery.”
Outside of work, Mahdi enjoys playing and watching sports—especially football—spending time with family and friends, and getting outdoors whenever he can. Mahdi is committed to supporting people of all ages and backgrounds on their journey to better health and function.
“Progress is progress, no matter how small—every step forward counts!”
Leila Zein
AHPRA Registered Physiotherapist
Leila has completed a Bachelor of Health Science and Master of Physiotherapy at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). She is a dedicated physiotherapist who is committed to providing care through a kind and compassionate approach.
With strong interests in musculoskeletal and neurological physiotherapy, Leila offers a broad, evidence-based approach to care. She is also specialising in pelvic health physiotherapy, where her passion lies in empowering women, addressing often-overlooked concerns, and improving quality of life through thorough and personalised treatment plans.
With dedication to get you to reach your goals – no matter how big or small, Leila has got your back!
“Healing is a journey, not a race”
Fatima Darwish
Certified Practising Speech Pathologist (Therapist)
Fatima is a friendly and passionate speech pathologist who loves working with children and their families. She brings a fun, play-based approach to sessions and enjoys helping kids feel confident in how they communicate — whether that’s through words, gestures, or finding their own unique voice.
Fatima has experience supporting children with a wide range of communication needs, including speech sound delays, language difficulties, and social communication challenges. She takes the time to build strong, trusting relationships with each child, and works closely with parents and caregivers to make sure therapy feels supportive, practical, and goal-focused.
She holds a Bachelor of Health Science and a Master of Speech Language Pathology from The University of Sydney, and is committed to ongoing learning to provide the most up-to-date and evidence-based care.
Fatima is passionate about creating a safe, engaging space where children can have fun, feel heard, and build lifelong communication skills.
“Every child deserves to feel heard —
It’s a blessing to help make that happen.”