Francis Meredith-Ah Kuoi – Samoa
Introducing Francis Meredith-Ah Kuoi, a devoted wife and mother of four, born in Auckland, New Zealand, and raised in Samoa from a young age. Her deep connection to the Samoan culture instilled values of respect, family, and community that drive her passion for physical activities and youth development.
As the founder and president of the Light of Hope – Toe Fuataina and Faith Angels Foundation Trust, Francis provides youth with opportunities to engage in sports and physical activities, empowering them to reach their full potential.
Having participated in the World Sprints in Fiji in 1998, Francis’ love for sports blossomed, leading her to actively participate in local competitions also representing Samoa in the Pacific Games in 2019. Currently, she is a proud member of the Laumei Outrigger Canoe Club, representing Va’a, and serves as the Vice President of the Samoa Outrigger Canoeing Association.
Through the Pacific Women’s Leadership Program, Francis aims to expand her knowledge in sport development to inspire the younger generations. Her goal is to teach & empower young women, instilling in them the values of resilience, compassion, & a love for physical activities.
Francis’ action plan includes using physical education to tackle issues faced by Samoan youth, such as high suicide rates, drug, and alcohol abuse.
With a determination to make a lasting impact in the lives of others, Francis envisions a brighter future where young individuals believe in themselves and find positive outlets through physical activities.
Francis seeks to gain insights from the Pacific Women’s Leadership Program to empower youth through sports and develop Va’a in Samoa. Her project includes setting up a centre for troubled youth, recognising physical activities as a key factor in their rehabilitation and overall well-being. With her commitment to positive change, Francis aspires to create a brighter future for the youth, using physical education to address pressing issues and inspire hope.
