Sakura Kokumai
How many gold medalists do you have in your life? We have one, and we get to try self defense with her.
Sakura Kokumai operates from self confidence, not fear. Growing up in both Hawaii and Japan, she talks about how she had a sense she was different, how work ethic overrides pure talent, and what it takes to be a karate champion, in real life.
Photography by Leslie Colon
Self Defense 101 with Sakura Kokumai
Date: Sunday, October 13
Admission: $28
Where are you from and where do you live now?
I was born in Hawaii and raised in two places, Hawaii and Japan. Currently live in San Diego, California. What were your ambitions when you were younger?
As a kid I knew I was different. Not in a crazy talented way but just “different” than others. But as a kid I always wanted to do something to leave a legacy and a name for myself.
Were your parents supportive?
They were always supportive. But I didn’t have much flexibility in choosing what I really wanted to do. If I had the power to choose and do whatever I wanted, I think I would’ve chosen soccer or something else. But my mom guided me to continue to practice karate over everything. But at the end of the day, it all worked out. Did you always know that you'd be a karate champion?
Not always. I was not the most athletic kid growing up. Wasn’t crazy fast, or powerful. But I was always the hardest worker in the room. I made sure I put in more effort than anyone else in the dojo, and made sure I put in all the extra work. I think slowly that turned into results, and I started to gain confidence as I matured. 
What was the feeling of being on a global stage, winning medals?
It’s always exciting. I love the process leading up getting myself to these stages because I know that's when the biggest growth happens. And every time I get to stand on a global stage it feels like a reward because I know within myself that “I made it” and was able to push through to make it all happen. What's your daily schedule?
My daily schedule now consists of teaching, training, learning, attending meetings and events. It gets tricky managing it all but I like to keep myself busy.
Unlock the gate a little for us, how do you live and work and train? Do gold medalists win money, or do they teach, or do you have to garner sponsorships?
Karate comes with zero funding. So choosing to be a full-time athlete is difficult and challenging in our sport. Every competition is out of pocket, and winning competitions doesn’t really give us enough cash prizes. I currently work to train and compete in international competitions. But of course, we have to pay the bills as well, so there’s plenty of reasons why I should just step out and quit. But nothing you want is really easy so I learned to continue to strive to find a way to do what I love. It's always worthwhile when everything comes together and you get the results.
Why do you do seminars and workshops? Was that always a part of your vision?
I love the idea that I am able to be a source of inspiration to those who come to my seminar. I remember as a kid, looking up to athletes and people who have achieved great things and interacting with them motivated me to push myself in my athletic career. If I can be a source of inspiration to even just one person in the group, I always think it’s a success. Seminars and workshops are currently the only way that supports my Karate career. Because of the support I get from people who take my seminar and workshops I am able to continue to train and compete. So in a way hosting these events inspires and motivates me as well. 
— Sakura Kokumai
I remember you telling us about never feeling like you really ever had to use your skill and training on anyone, but there being one instance that you felt like you did, can you describe how you knew the difference?
As a Karate-ka we learn self control. We learn to be in the present and control the controllables. I never had to use my skill on anyone, but the only time I felt like I did was when the other person started to lose control of the situation. Mindset is a powerful thing. You can choose to deescalate a situation by how you present yourself. What is your recommendation to anyone who is feeling scared or nervous in their body when it comes to safety?
Know and understand that your body is powerful. No matter what size, you have the ability to defend yourself. Are there any mantras or phrases you live by?
I love this Japanese phrase that says “Yugenjikou,” it basically means whatever you do or say you must commit and do. Staying true to this has always allowed me to commit and focus on my goals and tasks. How do you show up and establish who you are in a room full of people when you need to make sure everyone knows not to mess with you?
Just be yourself :) If you have confidence in yourself nobody will dare to mess with you. And even if they tried, it shouldn’t phase you. How do you level up your career while staying true to who you are?
I always make sure I think about those who have always supported me. Thinking about them will always help you remember your roots and where you come from.
How do you wear every hat, whether it be strong, feminine, intimidating, warm, kind, badass (these are all adjectives that come to mind when I think of you!), in a world that loves working in binaries and boxes?
I think it's important to start surrounding yourself with people who accept who you are first. They are the ones who will allow you to be who you are. Even if you face challenges, continue to be genuine and always remember those who support you. Is it okay to try? What makes it okay to? What advice would you give to someone who wanted to try something new?
Yes, absolutely. It could be intimidating to try new things but I think it's great to be able to be a student. There are so many things to be learned. If you weren't doing karate, what would you be doing? Dream job(s)?
That's a good question. It's hard to see myself doing anything else because this is all I know… but maybe acting? Haha Recently got into following motorsports so I think that's something cool too.
What do you hope people leave with or remember after meeting you and doing a session or workout with you?
I hope I am able to redefine what Karate is. I truly believe that Karate can make a positive difference in one's life. Also I hope everyone has fun and realizes that the power they have has always been within them. 
— Sakura Kokumai
