Meet the “Gentle Giant” of First Aid: Viliame Taufa Cocker

As the world observes World First Aid Day this September, the Fiji Red Cross Society proudly highlights one of its dedicated instructors, Viliame Taufa Cocker, affectionately known as the “Gentle Giant.” Taufa has become a vital part of the organization’s mission, using his engaging and practical teaching style to help thousands learn essential First Aid skills.

Standing tall, both in stature and in the hearts of his students, Taufa is known for his hands-on and lively approach to First Aid training. “No one likes a boring teacher,” he often says, and his students agree. Taufa’s classes are anything but ordinary—designed to ensure that people not only learn but also remember the actions to take during an emergency.

Taufa’s journey began in Labasa, where he was raised as the youngest and only boy in a family of five siblings. Reflecting on his childhood, Taufa explains how the sense of responsibility was ingrained in him early on. “I always had my sisters and my mother to protect me,” he recalls. “But when I moved from Labasa to Suva, I realized I had to take care of myself and be prepared for anything. That’s when I felt drawn to the safety field. It wasn’t just about learning life-saving skills for myself—it was about sharing those skills with others.”

Now, eight years into his role with the Fiji Red Cross, Taufa continues to travel across the country, helping communities, businesses, and individuals develop life-saving skills. He teaches First Aid in cities, villages, and workplaces, empowering people to act when emergencies strike.

While the work is deeply fulfilling, it also comes with sacrifices. “Most of the time, I’m on the road,” Taufa admits. “I video call my mom late at night when the day is done, and I miss out on important family functions. But when you think of the greater good, you learn to make those sacrifices.”

He also reflects on the unexpected lessons he learned from his childhood pet cow, Po. “Po taught me a lot about empathy and sacrifice,” he says with a smile. “I know it sounds funny, but it’s true.”

Taufa’s journey with the Fiji Red Cross began as a volunteer in 2014, managing the accounts for the Labasa Branch. From there, he became Branch President and eventually a Safety Instructor, a role he has held for six years. “When you’re First Aid trained, you’re not just learning skills—you’re accepting a responsibility to help others. It’s like being a superhero, just without the cape or the dramatics,” he jokes.

He vividly recalls an incident in Suva where someone had an epileptic seizure, and bystanders were unsure how to help. “Someone tried to put a flip-flop in the person’s mouth, which is dangerous. That’s the kind of misinformation that First Aid training helps correct. We were able to step in and safely assist until medics arrived.”

As we mark World First Aid Day, Taufa’s story is a reminder of the critical importance of being prepared. First Aid is not just about knowing what to do—it’s about having the courage to act when it matters most.

Originally from Udu, Kabara, Lau, with maternal ties to Somosomo, Taveuni, Taufa has grown up navigating diverse cultures and enjoys connecting with people from all walks of life. “I feel truly blessed to be a Safety Instructor, and even more blessed to share First Aid knowledge with others,” he says. “It’s a responsibility I take seriously, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to make a difference.”

World First Aid Day 2024 reminds us that anyone can save lives. The Fiji Red Cross encourages all Fijians to seek First Aid training, just like Viliame Taufa Cocker, and be prepared to help in times of need.

For more information about First Aid training or to get involved, please reach out to us on email info@redcross.com.fj

About World First Aid Day: World First Aid Day is celebrated annually on the second Saturday of September. This global event, led by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), highlights the importance of First Aid in saving lives and building resilient communities.