“There is so much raw talent in Samoa. And if we really dedicate ourselves to these kinds of sports, we can make it to the highest level” – Peniamina Percival, Kalika Dojo
There’s a common belief in Samoa that if you travel up to the hills of Tiapapata, you are in search of an escape from the busyness of Apia city.
Such is the case for Peniamina Percival, who has lived all his life in Tiapapata. Not only does it provide a peaceful, serene atmosphere, but it has also become a close, family community.
“I am very lucky to come from a very tight-knit, strong community. Here at Tiapapata I am pretty much family with everyone here. We do everything together,” Peniamina says.
It’s that close community and family that have helped Peniamina live a lifelong dream of building his own dojo – Kalika Dojo – for judo and martial arts.
A former Olympian for Samoa in judo, his love for the sport inspired him to give back to the future stars of it in Samoa.
“Growing up, there was actually more judo. So it was pretty big when judo first came into Samoa. But slowly there are not that many active judoka,” he says.
“That’s my dream, to really revive and grow the sport of judo. Because I see there is so much raw talent in Samoa. And if we really dedicate ourselves to these kinds of sports, we can make it to the highest level.”
Whether it’s the quiet lifestyle of Tiapapata, creating a zen-like feel for Peniamina, it’s that calmness and stillness that he draws on in his work as a sensei.
“Growing up like all Samoans we loved watching Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan and all those martial arts. You always want to be a sensei.”
One of the main classes Peniamina offers in his space is the children’s classes, which he says is one of his busiest.
“Being a sensei and being a teacher, it’s been a really eye-opening experience. It’s been tough and challenging especially with the kids, because they are full of energy. But it’s taught me a lot; to be more patient, and also to try and teach in a way they can understand.
“That’s probably my favourite part of being a sensei, is seeing the kids enjoy judo. Because it is a tough martial art. But it’s also a sport and it’s good to see kids come together and have fun, and train together.”
For now, business as usual continues for Peniamina and Kalika Dojo, but there are more dreams and aspirations to be conquered.
“Ultimately I really wanna use the dojo as not only a space for locals to come and train but also for those coming to visit Samoa. So I would love to hold training camps for not just judo but boxing and other martial arts,” he says.
“If they want to come to Samoa and do some martial arts this is the space, they can have the camp and experience Samoan culture and experience Samoa.”
