When I was 7 years old, my mom signed me up for karate classes at the Institute of Karate in Calgary. I was being bullied at school and my mom wanted me to learn how to defend myself. Soon enough, karate became my main out-of-school activity. I have always enjoyed the physical and mental challenge that karate provides. Karate is also where I discovered that I love teaching. Once students reach the rank of San Kyu (green belt), they are encouraged to assist in teaching beginner students as a means of expanding their own learning and development…after all, “teaching teaches the teacher”. Teaching others as a 12-years-old, sparked a passion that has led me to pursue teaching opportunities in my career as a marine biologist.
My experience with Renbukai Karate has shaped me into the person I am today. The mentorship I have received over the years of training has helped me develop discipline, focus, strength, coordination, and the courage to try new things and face new challenges. This is what I love best about karate – that it develops you as a person. What you learn applies beyond the dojo and gives you strengths that have positive impacts on your everyday life. Karate is for anyone and everyone!
Brief History of Training and Experience
1995: Started training Renbukai Karate (Institute of Karate)
2002: Joined the Kanto Sho Karate Club
2005: Received Shodan
2008: Received Nidan
2018: Received Sandan
Competed and Placed in the following tournaments:
All Japan Full Contact Karate Tournament – 2005 Silver Kumite
All Japan Full Contact Karate Tournament – 2007 Women’s Champion Kumite
All Japan Full Contact Karate Tournament – 2014
All Japan Full Contact Karate Tournament – 2018 Silver Kumite
All Japan Full Contact Karate Tournament – 2022
Alaska State Renbukai Karate Championships – 2004 Gold
Canadian Shotokan Karate Association Annual Shobu Ippon Competition – Gold and Silver