20/10/202509/10/2025

This Black History Month, we continue to celebrate athletes who are breaking barriers, inspiring others and redefining what’s possible in their sport and the wider community.

One such athlete is Vwairé Obukohwo, a rising talent in British Rowing, whose journey from a school rowing club to the world stage is a story of passion, perseverance and purpose.

As proud partners of British Rowing, Kukri Sports have fuelled their performances on the water – from supporting athletes like Vwairé as World Rowing Cup Series champions in July, to helping power the squad to finish second on the medal table, with three gold, four silver and a bronze.

Finding Passion and Purpose

Vwiaré’s introduction to rowing came almost by accident. “I started rowing at my sixth form rowing club just to get involved in more clubs and sports,” she recalls.

“I quickly fell in love with the sport as it was something that came naturally to me, and I was notoriously bad at every other sport!”

After joining the Twickenham World Class Start Programme, Vwairé thrived in an environment that taught her lessons beyond sport.

“I was lucky enough to have an amazing training environment where I learnt so much beyond rowing – lessons that still motivate me to this day.”

Breakthroughs and Belief

For Vwairé, progress hasn’t only been in her performances on the water, but also deeply mental.

“I believe my biggest breakthrough was cultivating my own motivation,” she explains.

“You can’t control how fast your opponents are or how they perform and rather than stressing about outcomes, I focus on the process and controlling the controllables.”

Overcoming Hurdles

After an exciting start to her rowing career, including winning bronze at her first U23 World Championships and gold in the U23 women’s 2km event at the 2019 Mizuno British Rowing Indoor Championships, Vwairé’s momentum was halted by injury.

“I battled a lot of imposter syndrome which made me think I had to ‘prove’ myself, so I pushed beyond my limits.

“That setback taught me to reframe my perspective and definition of success – it’s no longer about rankings or medals, but about how proud I make myself. It’s an ethos I still carry into all my work today.”

Her comeback has been defined by growth. From finishing sixth in the Women’s Double Sculls at the World Rowing Cup Series in Varese, to competing as part of the senior squad in Lucerne, she continues to show her strength.

Eyes on the Future

Now an established member of the senior squad, Vwairé has her sights firmly set on the LA 2028 Olympic Games.

Beyond the boat, she is using her platform to uplift others as an athlete mentor for the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust.

Through her work, Vwairé supports young people in vulnerable situations, helping them find confidence and purpose through sport.

“Being an athlete is such a gift,” she says. “The future isn’t guaranteed, but I aspire to make history as the first Black GB Rower to grace the Olympic stage.

“And if that’s not god’s will, I’ll continue to use my platform to encourage diversity and inclusivity in the sport.”

Standing Firm in Power and Pride

For Vwairé, Black History Month is a time for reflection, connection and gratitude.

“It allows me to celebrate, connect and reflect. I love being inspired by what the black community has achieved and by the people who make that success possible.

“Rowing has embraced me for who I am, and I’m so grateful to my teammates coaches and support system for allowing me to grow into the athlete I dream of becoming.”

A Message of Inspiration

Vwairé Obukohwo’s story is one of resilience, growth and representation – proof that success isn’t just measured by medals, but the difference you make along the way.

We’re proud to celebrate and recognise athletes like Vwairé, whose achievements on and off the water embody the spirit of Black History Month – Standing Firm in Power and Pride.