Northwest Black Belt Academy Celebrates 2024 Achievements
The evening also celebrated the promotion of Master Louise Viviers, the Chief Instructor of the Northwest Black Belt Academy, to the prestigious rank of seventh Dan Master.
The Northwest Black Belt Academy, based in Potchefstroom, recently hosted its annual prize-giving and graduation ceremony for 2024. This event brought together students, families, and instructors to celebrate a year of hard work, dedication, and personal growth in the traditional Korean martial art of Tang Soo Do.
What is Tang Soo Do?
It is a traditional Korean martial art focusing on discipline, respect, and selfimprovement. While it teaches self-defense techniques, it is also about developing the mind and spirit. Students don’t just learn physical skills but also values like humility, perseverance, and respect for others. At the Northwest Black Belt Academy, this art form has inspired countless students to become confident, disciplined, and strong individuals.
Celebrating Student Progress
This year’s ceremony honoured the achievements of students from all levels. From beginners to advanced practitioners, every student was recognised for their dedication and progress. Certificates and new belt ranks were awarded, symbolising the students’ hard work and commitment to learning the art of Tang Soo Do. The academy, led by dedicated instructors, emphasises the importance of discipline and respect as the foundation of martial arts training. For many students, this event marked an important step in their journey of personal growth and mastery.
Master Imke de Kock: A Lifelong Journey
One of the highlights of the evening was the promotion of Master Imke de Kock to 5th Dan Master. Master Imke’s journey in Tang Soo Do began when she was just seven years old, training under Master Louise Viviers. Her promotion reflects her years of dedication, exceptional skill, and leadership. She is an inspiration to students at the academy and a respected figure in the martial arts community.
Master Louise Viviers: A Local Leader with Global Impact
The evening also celebrated the promotion of Master Louise Viviers, the Chief Instructor of the Northwest Black Belt Academy, to the prestigious rank of seventh Dan Master. Master Viviers is a well-known leader in the martial arts community, not only in Potchefstroom but across South Africa. Since 2003, she has played a key role in Martial Arts South Africa (MASA), serving as General Secretary before becoming President in 2012. Her leadership has helped unite and promote non-Olympic martial arts across the country. Under her guidance, MASA has become one of the largest federations in South Africa, supporting the growth of various traditional martial arts.
A Tradition of Excellence
The Northwest Black Belt Academy is proud to uphold the traditions of Tang Soo Do. Unique to this martial art, students wear midnight blue belts rather than black belts, symbolising humility and the idea that learning never ends. The academy operates in Potchefstroom and Klerksdorp, offering quality instruction to students of all ages and backgrounds.
A Message from Master Louise Viviers
Reflecting on the event, she shared: “At the Northwest Black Belt Academy we teach more than martial arts techniques. We teach values and life skills that our students carry beyond the training hall. Tang Soo Do is a way of life, and this ceremony is a celebration of the progress we’ve made together as a community.”
Looking Ahead
The academy continues to inspire and educate students in the art of Tang Soo Do, fostering discipline, respect, and confidence. As a cornerstone of the Potchefstroom community, the Northwest Black Belt Academy remains committed to helping individuals grow through martial arts. For those interested in learning more about Tang Soo Do or joining the academy, the doors are always open to welcome you.
