Timmy Mocodompis

 A Journey of Perseverance and Leadership 

Timmy Mocodompis, from Tangerang, Indonesia, (a city of about 2 million people on the western border of Jakarta), exemplifies resilience and determination.  Starting at the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) in 2018, he quickly advanced from an entry-level job to become the first Indonesian national to serve in PCC management as Guest Services Manager.  

Challenges and Growth 

Timmy’s remarkable journey began with his mission to Japan in 2015.  As the first Indonesian missionary called to the country, his path was not without obstacles.  He was scheduled to attend the Missionary Training Center (MTC) in Provo, Utah for nine weeks, but his visa to the United States was denied twice. Elder Mocodompis was instead rerouted to the Philippines.  Once there he was granted a Japanese visa and arrived in Tokyo after only twelve days training in the Philippines MTC. 

The next hurdle would be to master Japanese by first learning English. 

Despite the setbacks, Timmy persevered, leaning on his faith and determination to overcome the challenges. “At first I thought I couldn’t do it, but I learned to trust the process,” he recalls. He relied on the promised blessings of the Lord and the gift of tongues to learn both languages.  He was able to teach the Gospel to the people of Japan in their native tongue. After coming to BYUH in 2018, Timmy was eventually hired as a tour guide at the PCC utilizing his language skills on behalf of Japanese-speaking guests as well as many other guests.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic brought a new set of serious problems for people all over the globe. For Timmy and others in Laʽie, the daunting news that the PCC would have to close was a sad reality. Many employees were furloughed. PCC senior management continued to support and help as many of those remaining as possible. Timmy was among them.

The Center remained closed for almost a year—from March 16, 2020, until January 18, 2021.

Under the leadership and active participation of Director of Guest Services, Jimmy Mapu, a skeleton crew of ten employees—including Timmy— took on physically demanding tasks such as dredging the canal, landscaping, janitorial services, moving furniture, and maintaining the grounds, all while wearing face masks. They were tested for fevers twice daily. 

“Jimmy always looked out for me,” Timmy says, describing his mentor as a pivotal influence in his life. “He taught me to see challenges as opportunities to grow.” At the time, Timmy was responsible for helping to support his family in Indonesia.  And he says with a smile, “I was somewhat traumatized at the possibility of attempting to get a visa to return if I was sent home.” The stress was intense, but once again, he got through.

Overcoming Doubt and Leading with Vision 

When the PCC reopened in 2021, Timmy embraced the center’s gradual return to normal operations and resumed his role of training tour guides. With the department expanding, a full-time supervisory position opened, and Timmy felt encouraged to apply.  Despite the fact that he was competing against highly qualified candidates, his dedication and vision for improving the guest experience helped him stand out in the selection process. 

“I doubted myself because I’m not Polynesian,” Timmy admits.  “But I believed in the mission of the PCC and wanted to give back to this place that had given me so much.” 

His efforts were recognized, and he secured the position, eventually rising to Manager of Guest Services.  One of the hallmarks of his leadership is that Timmy emphasizes gratitude and service.  He often reminds the team, “These guests make our education and dreams possible.  Serve them with gratitude and care.” 

Take Home Lessons 

With plans to return to Indonesia and start a new business, Timmy reflects on the key lessons he’s learned during his tenure at the PCC. 

1. Support your employees.  “When you take care of your people, they will take care of you.” 
2. Lead with integrity.  Timmy’s mentor, Jimmy Mapu, demonstrated how to inspire loyalty and trust through example.
3. Honor your roots.  “At the PCC, I learned to appreciate my ancestors and the sacrifices they made, which motivates me to give back.” 

Timmy acknowledges the challenges of starting fresh in Indonesia with his Samoan wife, Kathy and their two children.  Yet he remains optimistic, determined to carry the spirit of Aloha with him.