Female instructors lead empowering martial arts seminar in Bracken Park
The Beauty is a Beast seminar gave women of all ages a chance to train, connect and feel empowered in a space designed just for them.
The sixth edition of the Beauty is a Beast martial arts seminar was held on July 26 at Bracken Park Community Hall.
Nearly 80 women, aged 13 to over 60, gathered for a day of fitness, empowerment, and skill-building.
What began as a shared idea between Karyn Smith and a top female instructor friend in Cape Town has grown into a unique Johannesburg-based event that continues to attract women of all backgrounds, from seasoned martial artists to complete beginners.
The aim of the event is to create a space where women can feel safe, strong, and inspired.
“It felt fresh, meaningful, and much-needed. Our slogan is ‘Look like a beauty, train like a beast’, and that’s exactly the energy we bring every year,” said Karyn Smith, event organiser.
A space for strength and support
What sets Beauty is a Beast apart is its commitment to being a women-only event taught exclusively by highly ranked female instructors across various martial disciplines, including krav maga, karate, kickboxing, Zumba, and jiu-jitsu.
“We want participants to learn from the best women who are technically skilled and inspiring role models.
“Every year, we make adjustments based on feedback, and this time we introduced two new instructors, which really elevated the experience,” said Smith.
The event remains non-profit and affordable thanks to sponsors like Bushido Martial Arts Supplies, PostNet Rosebank, Bidvest Protea Coin, and Kime Photography. All instructors donate their time, and any extra funds go toward sponsoring participants who cannot afford to attend.
Learning and lifting one another
The atmosphere on the day was full of excitement. Participants were invited to try out multiple martial arts styles in short, intensive sessions designed to build confidence and practical skills.
Krav maga instructor Sharlé Vermaak shared how meaningful it was to teach in an environment focused on women.
“It gives them a safe and judgement-free space to come out of their comfort zone, have fun, and learn how to defend themselves.
“You could see the excitement when they realised they could do something they never thought possible,” she said.
Monique Lyons, another instructor, praised the focus and camaraderie shown during her session.
“They helped and encouraged each other, which was amazing to see. Events like these give women the space to learn, express themselves, and push past their own limitations,” she said.
Inspired and empowered
Among the participants was Lenne Knuist, who left the seminar with a renewed sense of confidence.
“I wanted to challenge myself, learn new skills, and be part of an empowering event.
“The Krav Maga session with Sharlé was the highlight. It was practical and powerful, and I felt like I was learning skills I could actually use,” said Knuist.
She added, “The event gave me such a boost in confidence. I felt stronger, more aware, and I would absolutely recommend it to others.”
Looking ahead
Smith confirmed that Beauty is a Beast will return in 2026, with plans to add two or three new instructors and introduce split sessions for beginners and experienced martial artists.
She said the goal is to make the event more accessible, more tailored, and more impactful.
“To me, ‘Beauty is a Beast’ means breaking the stereotype that you have to choose between being strong and being feminine.
“This event shows you can be both,” she said.
As more women discover the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of martial arts, Beauty is a Beast continues to grow, not just as a fitness event but as a movement of strength, sisterhood, and self-belief.
