A new kendo dojo, called Wakaba Kendo Club in Sandton, is opening its doors with the goal of making the Japanese martial art more accessible to children, and helping grow the next generation of local practitioners.

For instructor Nirisoa Rasamijao, the move is about more than teaching technique; it is about creating a community space where children can develop confidence, discipline, and meaningful connections.

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Inspired by the idea of grassroots sport development, Rasamijao said she wanted to create easier access to kendo for younger generations. “I view the dojo as a community dojo that offers Sandton families convenient access to a great, but little-known, martial art.”

Rasamijao has spent several years teaching at Ryu Ken Chi Dojo, helping students achieve important milestones in their training journey. Now, she hopes to contribute to building a larger kendo community in South Africa.

The dojo’s kendo kids programme has been designed around the learning styles and attention spans of younger children.

Sessions include warm-ups, technical training, foundational exercises, and gradually introduces sparring in a structured environment.

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Leadership development also forms part of the programme, as children gain experience and confidence.

According to Rasamijao, kendo’s benefits extend well beyond physical exercise. “In countries like Japan, kendo is highly regarded as an educational martial art.”

She said students often develop patience, resilience, courage, and become more self-assured over time, adding that the sport also encourages cultural appreciation and open-mindedness through exposure to traditions and different ways of thinking.

Rasamijao believes kendo stands out because it combines intensity with longevity.

“It keeps you fit and active, but can also become a lifelong practice supported by a strong community.”

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For parents concerned about aggression in martial arts, she emphasised that kendo places strong importance on conduct and respect. Behaviour is actively guided by instructors and senior students, and humility remains central to training culture.

Although still in its early stages, the new dojo has already received encouraging feedback from trial sessions.

Rasamijao hopes more parents will encourage children to explore activities they enjoy.

“If we can get more young people involved in kendo, we can significantly grow youth development and skill in South Africa.”

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