Kokoro has competed for Samoa in the World Swimming Championships in Melbourne, Australia, and Fukuoka, Japan, all while studying towards a Master of Intercultural Communication and Applied Translation at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
“I’m humbled and blessed to have such an amazing village within the University that I can lean on at any given moment, and none of this could be possible without the support from my family,” Kokoro says.
Trying to achieve in both swimming and study has been a challenge, but Kokoro says the two have a symbiotic relationship for him. “When I’m down, I use the other one to pick me up and gain momentum. There are transferrable skills like discipline, resilience, asking questions, and focusing on a goal.”
As well as the World Swimming Championships, Kokoro has also competed as part of Team Samoa for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, and at the 2019 South Pacific Games, where he placed fourth. His goal for the next Pacific Games is to get a podium finish. After that he is aiming for the Olympics.
Now in his final year of study, Kokoro says his approach has changed between his undergraduate and postgraduate study, but that the help and guidance of Dr Marco Sonzogni, his course coordinator, has been invaluable when he’s felt daunted.
“The main piece of advice that I can give students in a similar position as me is to just be honest with yourself and trust the processes. Much like sport; focus on the process/performance, and the results will come. If you focus on the result, you will not be fully focused on the process/performance.”
Coming back to his “why” helps Kokoro get through tough times. He remembers the sacrifices his family has made for him to be at university, and what he’s working towards. He is studying to learn, not just to pass. “Bad training or failing an exam means there is more to learn, more clarity needed. There are no losses at university, only learnings.”
“Winning a Blues award and gaining recognition for my sporting achievements can’t be described. However, going further and winning Pasifika Sportsperson of the Year, as well as the Sporting and Academic Excellence Achievement Award is a true honour, as there are some really, really talented student athletes at Te Herenga Waka. I’m beyond grateful and truly thankful to all those that have been a part of my journey so far.”