Following the recent murders of women in Ekurhuleni and amid ongoing gender-based violence, the Jozi Youth Empire and the International Kenoukai Karate and Kobudo Federation recently partnered to host a self-defence class.

Speaking to the publication at Paterson Park on October 23, Jozi Youth Empire founder and youth activist Mapula Mojela said the class was the first of many.

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“The self-defence class was an amazing and empowering experience for Jozi Youth Empire artists and members of the surrounding community,” said Mojela. “The session provided participants with an opportunity to learn valuable self-defence techniques while promoting discipline, confidence, respect, and personal safety.”

She added that it was an exciting and educational experience that encouraged participants to become more aware of their surroundings and understand the importance of protecting themselves.

The collaboration between Jozi Youth Empire and the International Kenoukai Karate and Kobudo Federation demonstrated the importance of partnerships in creating opportunities for youth development and community empowerment.

Okinawan martial arts principles

Operating under the expert lineage of Shihan Imtiaz Abdulla, the session brought traditional Okinawan martial arts principles into a modern context.

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Instructors Sempai Cliff Agar and Sempai Roxanne Cassim emphasised that self-defence should be second nature and not about fighting like men, but about cultivating the situational awareness and confidence needed to avoid danger or neutralise threats calmly.

“A standout moment of the workshop was the introduction of intuitive, non-confrontational techniques,” said Mojela. “As self-defence instructor Roxanne Cassim highlighted during the session, these techniques use a natural gesture to establish an unyielding personal space circle.”

Community life skills

Mojela added that Jozi Youth Empire looks forward to continuing the initiative and creating more opportunities for young people and community members to develop essential life skills.

The founder concluded that the self-defence class reinforced Jozi Youth Empire’s commitment to empowering young people, promoting safety, building confidence, and creating a positive and supportive environment for the community.

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