This women’s month, join non-governmental and non-profit organisation Joburg Child Welfare (JCW) for a self-defence workshop on August 30. The event, held at Melville’s 27 Boxes and targeted at women and children from the community, will be led by Norman Magua, co-founder of Magua Taekwon-Do Group, based at Marks Park Sports Club, an expert trainer from MTG Fighting Fit Central.

Marketing manager Jo-Anne Schermeier describes Magua as someone who brings years of experience, professionalism, and a trauma-informed approach to self-defence. “His work aligns with our values at JCW – empowering individuals while creating safe, supportive spaces.”

Read more: Self-defense class in Northcliff

She added that partnering with MTG ensures participants receive expert training that is both practical and empowering.

During the event, participants experience a curriculum that combines practical physical techniques, mental preparedness, and situational awareness, such as:

• A disguised guard position (non-aggressive, but ready),
• Basic striking techniques,
• Targeting vital spots on the body, and
• Basic release escapes from grabs or holds.

  

The organisation, which is dedicated to protecting vulnerable children, found it important to host this event because, as they see it, protection starts with prevention, which starts with empowerment.

“Hosting a self-defence workshop gives us an opportunity to equip women and girls with tools to protect themselves,” said Schermeier.

At the same time, the event will raise funds to cover the costs of therapy sessions, as part of the healing journey for children who are victims of abuse. “The workshop is about creating safety, resilience, and support across generations.”

The proceeds from the event will be used to sponsor therapy for sexually abused children that come into their care, through the JCW child abuse treatment and training services (CATTS) programme. This is a specalised programme, which responds to gender-based violence, with a particular focus on child survivors of sexual abuse. The programme offers containment, trauma counselling, and longer-term therapy for children, also providing support and counselling to affected families.

Along with this, it also includes a training component that educates social workers, parents, teachers, and community stakeholders about child sexual abuse.

JCW hopes that, through this event, it will help build confidence, create a safe space for connection, and raise awareness about personal safety. “Plus, each donation funds therapy for an abused child,” said Schermeier. “So, participants empower others while empowering themselves.”

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!