POLOKWANE – Sensei Peter Malatji, a dedicated karate instructor from Polokwane and Seshego, is appealing to the public and potential sponsors to assist him in raising R31 000 for his upcoming trip to Japan, where he will represent South Africa at the Kyokushin-Kan Karate World Championships on November 22-23.

Malatji, who was recently promoted to a third dan black belt, has been selected to lead the South African team at this prestigious global event.

His qualification is the result of years of dedication to the sport and consistent service to the local martial arts community.

“To secure my participation, I need to raise the money by October 15,” he told BONUS. “The amount will cover essential costs including return flights to Tokyo (R19 400), self-catering accommodation (R5 000), team kit, official registration fees, insurance and food (R6 600).”

Malatji has been running non-profit karate classes for the past eight years, using the sport as a tool to uplift the youth and address social challenges. “Karate is more than self-defence. It teaches discipline, focus and perseverance, qualities that are crucial for young people today,” he said.

His karate club operates without government funding, relying heavily on support from parents and the local community. “In most cases, we use our own personal money to attend tournaments across the country. This opportunity to represent my country in Japan, the home of karate, is a lifelong dream. I will use the experience to bring back valuable knowledge and inspire the next generation of fighters at home,” he added.

Malatji’s promotion was recently conferred by Shihan Happy Prince Gumede, a seventh dan black belt and international advisor to Kyokushin-Kan, after a rigorous grading session in KwaZulu-Natal.

Anyone wishing to support Sensei Peter Malatji in his journey, can contact him directly at 081 039 7842.

Donations can be made to:

Account holder: Kyokushin-Kan Karate.
FNB Gold Business Account: 63096487707.
Branch Code: 210835.
Reference: Peter Malatji.