Support Tonga's First Female Olympic Boxer

Hi everyone!

It has been a few days since I released the news: your friend, coworker, teammate, niece, sister has carved herself into the history books as the first female boxer to represent Tonga in the Olympics.

Never could I have imagined a little brown girl from Vava’u, running barefoot through the streets of Masilamea and Leimatu’a, lole sainisi stains on her fingers, scars from dog and mosquito bites and scratches often from a tree-climbing endeavor involving a neighbor’s fruit tree; would one day carry Tonga boxing onto a world stage-the Olympics.

I have had the privilage to cross paths with many of you and as some of you know, once I set my mind to something, I give it my all- 110%! My pride has held me back from accepting help in the past, however; recently, I’ve learned the value of leaning on my community. I want to thank Lolo Heimuli and my Balmoral Lee Gar family in New Zealand for teaching me this important lesson. I am also grateful to JP Athletic (New Zealand) for their support in conditioning and strengthening my body for this next phase of training. On my return to the States, I extend my gratitude to those who have stepped up without hesitation. This journey hasn’t been easy, but nothing worth having ever is. As I focus on my preparation, I’m realizing I need to lean on my community for suppport and to alleviate financial stress which will allow me to train without added pressure. Sponsors are appreciated!

Your support will enable me to focus on my training, nutrition and recovery. Any contribution, big or small, will bring me closer to my goal.

You can show your support here, on Venmo @aki_9 or Zelle. If you can't donate, a kind word of encouragement means just as much! Follow my journey on Instagram @ofa_aki.

For every $2,000 raised, I'll release a YouTube video answering 5 questions about my journey (keep an eye out a link will be in my Instagram Bio). Please leave a question and your favorite inspirational quote after donating. Your words will motivate me during any tough times ahead.

Thank you for your love and support. Let's do this! 'Ofa Lahi Atu. TIMI TONGA LET'S GO!