Two young judo coaches bring big change to Bryanston’s youth
NEOKO Judo is a movement focused on mentorship and empowerment, helping kids gain confidence, self-discipline, and life skills through the art of judo.
In Bryanston, Koketso Rammutla and Neo Mogase-Williams, are using their lifelong passion for judo to transform the lives of local youth.
NEOKO Judo, founded in February, is not just a dojo; it is a movement focused on mentorship, empowerment, and building resilient, confident leaders. The club is the brainchild of two lifelong friends who have been practising judo for over 17 years.
Rammutla said their journey began at Bryanston Primary School, where they first discovered the sport that would go on to shape their lives. “Now, as adults, we have returned to our roots to offer young people a safe space to learn, grow, and thrive.”
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He added that growing up, judo made a huge impact on them. “It changed our lives, and now it is our turn to give back.”
Mogase-Williams explained that NEOKO Judo is one of the few clubs in Johannesburg supported by a B-BBEE enterprise development initiative, which makes it unique in its sector. “As two young coaches, we are not only helping to shape the next generation of athletes; we are also creating a safe space for children in communities where safety, and self-defence skills, are urgently needed.
“We are committed to teaching, not just martial arts but also self-defence, self-discipline, and situational awareness.”
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They emphasise the importance of learning how to handle difficult situations, including how to protect oneself from violence. “We are not teaching people to fight. We are teaching them how to protect themselves. How to carry themselves with confidence, and how to be aware of their surroundings. This is particularly important in a time when crime rates, especially gender-based violence, are a growing concern.”
Rammutla elaborated that the impact of NEOKO Judo is evident in the stories of its members.
He shared his personal experience of how judo helped him overcome bullying. “I was the smallest kid growing up, and I was constantly picked on. Judo gave me the tools to stand up for myself.”
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He went on to excel in first-team rugby by the age of 15, despite his size, a testament to the confidence and physical strength he gained through judo.
They also believe that the confidence gained from judo can lead to even greater achievements, with one coach noting that the lessons learned through the sport can help a student even become president of South Africa. “It doesn’t matter whether they become a judo champion or not. What matters is that they believe in themselves and push to achieve whatever dream they have.”
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