National swimming champion Taichi Vakasama believes that success in sports can translate to academic excellence, emphasizing that nothing is unachievable. Vakasama proudly announced his graduation with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Fiji on November 29.
At 24 years old, Vakasama shared his journey through six years of intensive studies at the Umanand Prasad School of Medicine and Health Science at the Saweni Campus in Lautoka. Balancing the demands of academics and competitive swimming was a significant challenge, particularly during his first year. It was a new environment filled with a heavy course load.
“The first year of university was a completely new experience for me, but I gradually adapted,” said Vakasama, who served as Fiji’s flag bearer during the Opening Ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. He highlighted the challenges posed by the pandemic and the Olympic Games, but as he progressed, he found ways to manage his time effectively between his studies and swimming. He credited his colleagues for their support, stating they ensured he stayed on track with missed lessons during his training.
Vakasama dedicated his achievement to his parents, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support and encouragement, which he believes were key contributors to his success.
His impressive achievements in swimming include competing in the men’s 100 meters breaststroke at the 2018 FINA World Swimming Championships in Hangzhou, China, and representing Fiji at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. He also holds the current Pacific Games men’s 200m breaststroke record, reached the semi-finals at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, and made history as the first Fijian swimmer to win a medal at the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games in the Bahamas.
With a rich cultural background—his mother from Japan and his father from Daliconi, Vanuabalavu in Lau—Vakasama stands as an inspiring figure, exemplifying that with determination and support, one can achieve excellence in various fields.
In a world striving for balance between academics and athletics, Vakasama’s story serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging others to believe in their capabilities—both in the pool and in the classroom.
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