Who I Am
Sanghwan Park (Andy) | Sports Psychology Researcher & Community Impact Leader
I’m an 11th-grade student at St. Johnsbury Academy in Jeju, South Korea, where I serve as captain of our swimming team. But my real passion lies at the intersection of sports psychology and community development, particularly in creating inclusive athletic opportunities for underserved populations.
As the leader of Ubuntu Network—a student-founded NGO supporting educational and sports programs in Uganda—I’ve spent the past three years building sustainable partnerships that go beyond traditional charity models. Our approach emphasizes mutual learning, cultural exchange, and long-term community empowerment.
Finding My Mission: From Individual Achievement to Community Impact
Growing up as a competitive swimmer, I always believed success was measured by personal records and individual victories. But my perspective fundamentally shifted when I encountered a documentary about educational inequality in Uganda during my sophomore year at St. Johnsbury Academy. That moment didn’t just spark my interest in global issues—it revealed my true mission.
I realized that my privilege as a student-athlete in an international school came with responsibility. The same determination that drove me to excel in the pool could be channeled toward something far greater: creating inclusive opportunities for others to discover their own potential, regardless of physical limitations or socioeconomic circumstances.
My Mission Statement
“To bridge communities through adaptive sports psychology, proving that human potential knows no boundaries when we create the right support systems.”
This mission crystallized through my work with Ubuntu Network and my transformative encounter with Paralympic swimmer Husna Kukundakwe in Uganda. I’ve learned that true leadership isn’t about being the fastest swimmer in the pool—it’s about ensuring everyone gets a chance to dive in.
My Core Beliefs
The principles that define my character and drive my purpose in life.
Ubuntu Philosophy
"I am because we are." This African philosophy guides everything I do. Individual success is meaningless unless it contributes to collective wellbeing.
Adaptive Athletics
Physical differences don't define limitations—they define unique pathways to excellence. Every athlete has something valuable to teach us about overcoming barriers.
Evidence-Based Impact
Good intentions aren't enough. Real change requires research, data, and systematic approaches to community development.
Cultural Humility
The most important lessons come from listening to and learning from the communities we aim to serve.
My Experience
Ubuntu Network
Mock Trial Club
St. Johnsbury Academy Swim Club
Sports Research Initiative
Uganda Hope Hill School Partnership
Disability Sports Coaching
Looking Forward
My ultimate goal is to pursue Sports Psychology at the university level while continuing to expand Ubuntu Network’s impact. I envision a future where adaptive sports programs are standard in educational institutions globally, where cultural exchange through athletics builds stronger international relationships, and where research in sports psychology directly informs community development practices.
The swimmer in me is still driven by the desire to go faster, push harder, and reach new heights. But now I understand that the finish line isn’t just about touching the wall first—it’s about ensuring everyone behind me has the chance to compete.
