Mental resilience for displaced children through martial arts and play

Two children holding a large poster with hand-drawn flags and Arabic text, standing outside near a parked car.
Group of four women and girls smiling outdoors with a cityscape background.
A group of people posing in front of a colorful mural featuring words like 'Hope' and 'Peace' with musical and nature elements.
Woman and child posing beside a parked car.

Throughout 2024 there was a war on Lebanon which escalated greatly in late September leading to the displacement of about one million people. Many sought shelter in schools or other available spaces. During this period I worked with children displaced by the war on their towns and neighborhoods in two locations. One was a school and one was a night club. We had to improvise to find places to train, a yard, a parking lot. We had to overcome the fear of new airstrikes, ignore the sounds of drones flying above, and the tension of not knowing what was to come. Many of them had lost loved ones or homes. Their parents were stressed or scared, their living conditions uncomfortable or humiliating.

We played games to keep them physically active and worked on martial arts to excite them. It was challenging to work in an ongoing crisis where the trauma was not in the past but in the present but it was also rewarding to see their smiles and hear their laughter and see them waiting for me to show up. I think self defense and martial arts training can be very valuable tools for children going through these situations, and this approach deserves more study and application.

A group of young women and girls in a room, some wearing hijabs, posing together and smiling.
A group of people engaged in a physical exercise or workshop in a room with colorful wall murals. Some are sitting cross-legged on the floor, while one person leans over another who is lying down with legs bent. They are all on a checkered mat.
Group of young people sitting in a circle on a padded floor, engaging in a discussion or activity, with colorful abstract wall art in the background.
Group of people sitting on a gray mat in a gym or community space, with shoes and fitness accessories nearby, and a colorful wall design in the background.
A group of people sitting in a circle on a mat in a room with colorful wall art. They appear to be having a discussion or workshop. Most are wearing headscarves, and footwear is placed to the side.

Anat partnering with Navtss

Over the course of two months, I worked with 30 girls aged 12 to 22 from Nahr el Bared refugee camp in northern Lebanon and Burj El Barajneh refugee camp in Beirut. The program combined physical training, self-defense techniques, and open discussions about various topics—ranging from their dreams and aspirations to understanding fear and how our bodies react to it. The experience was both impactful and inspiring.

 

For these girls, many of whom face societal restrictions and lack the freedom to play outdoors, the program offered a safe space to explore their physical and mental strengths. It encouraged them to embrace their bodies, build self-confidence, and discover their potential. By assigning leadership roles and fostering teamwork, the program also gave a voice to those who had been bullied, empowering them to express themselves and collaborate with others.

Women and girls practicing martial arts in a training room.
A group of girls gather around in a room, one girl appears to demonstrate a self-defense move. Some girls wear headscarves, and they stand or sit on a mat, paying attention to the demonstration.
Group of children sitting and lying on a mat indoors, involved in a playful or exercise activity.
Two people playfully wrestling on a mat in a room with brick-patterned walls.
People laying on a floor, some smiling and interacting, in a dimly lit room.
Person sitting in sunlight on dark textured floor, wearing a headscarf and casual clothing.
A group of individuals practicing martial arts on a mat. Two people are engaged in a grappling position, with one wearing a blue hijab and a pink top. Others are nearby, observing or participating in the background.
Women practicing self-defense techniques in a martial arts class led by an instructor.
Group of women and girls posing indoors, forming fists, on a textured floor. Some wear hijabs. Background features a white brick wall.
Group of young girls and women posing enthusiastically on a mat, some wearing hijabs, in a martial arts or fitness setting.

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

The International Rescue committee team decided to empower all their female field workers operating in northern Lebanon (Akkar), eastern Lebanon (Zahle), and central Beirut (Achrafieh) by equipping them with basic self-defense skills.

These included maintaining a safe distance both while standing and on the ground. The training emphasized that their primary goal is always to escape rather than engage in confrontation. All the women showed incredible dedication and motivation to learn, realizing their own strength and how small, practical techniques could help them escape dangerous situations. This newfound confidence and awareness will enable them to carry out their work safely and with greater self-assurance in the field.

Our Lady Of Hope Foundation

Empowering the next generation is not just about physically empowering girls; it's about building inner strength to overcome life’s difficulties. This aspect is particularly important for girls dealing with challenging backgrounds.

Three people sitting on a blue self defense mat in a gym with mirrors, a punching bag, and exercise equipment in the background.
Group of children seated on a blue mat in a mirrored room, wearing casual clothing, with a female instructor in front. Indoor activity setting.

Self-Defense Workshop: Championing Women's Safety Against Violence

On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, I had the honor of collaborating with Caritas Lebanon and Caritas Ambrosiana for a self-defense workshop. As a Lebanese Jiu-Jitsu World Champion, I joined forces with them in their 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. Our focus was clear: empowering migrant women, particularly those residing in one of the secure shelters, equipping them with crucial tools for self-protection.

A group of women participating in an indoor training session. One woman is standing and speaking, while two others sit on chairs, listening. The room is simple with a tiled floor and a small speaker in the corner. In the foreground, two people partia
A group of women interacting in a classroom, one woman smiling and holding hands with another, posters on the wall in the background.
Person in red hoodie with braided hair, wearing a face mask, in a group setting indoors.
Two people practicing self-defense techniques, one wearing a red hoodie and the other in black, holding hands for a maneuver.

Humanitarian Dialogue

The Switzerland-based Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) wanted to prepare their Lebanon team for the various dangers they might encounter while working in the field. In a fun and secure environment, the team learned the basics of self-defense, including controlling space, falling safely, standing up tactically and defensively, elements of ground fighting, and even choking techniques. It was a concise but impactful two-hour introduction to self-defense.

Group of people sitting on the floor against a wall with wooden bars in a gym setting.
Three people in a self-defense class practicing techniques with one person on the ground and two others instructing.
Four people in a gym practicing self-defense techniques, with two people demonstrating headlocks on the others.
People participating in a dance or movement class in a studio with mirrored walls and padded floors.

Empowering Youth Through Jiu-Jitsu: Transforming Lives and Shaping Futures

No matter how daunting life appears, there's always a choice: to be shaped by the world's challenges or to become a force that shapes it! I had the privilege of organizing, leading, and teaching around 90 underprivileged kids, aged 6 to 14 years old in a one month seminar. Witnessing their enthusiasm and eagerness was incredibly moving.

My mission is clear: to use Jiu-Jitsu to give hope and inspiration to as many kids as possible. Across the globe, Jiu-Jitsu has been a transformative force, rescuing youth from the clutches of streets, drugs, and crime. It's not just a sport; it's a way of life and a community.

Empowering Palestinian Girls Through Self-Defense: A Journey of Strength and Resilience

Partnering with NAVTSS, I had the incredible opportunity to design and lead a self-defense program tailored for young Palestinian girls from Lebanon’s Bourj Al Barajneh camp. This initiative was more than just a series of activities – it was a journey. Our focus was twofold: nurturing their self-assurance and equipping them with physical and emotional self-defense skills. Through Jiu-jitsu, we aimed to sculpt not just their bodies but also their minds, fostering resilience and inner strength. Each session was more than practice; it was a safe haven for open discussions. We delved into their world, addressing their concerns and experiences, whether personal or within their community. This helped them heighten their awareness, stay vigilant, and learn the right responses to specific situations. It also produced competitors and teachers, meaning it increased their opportunities. Witnessing the transformation was incredibly fulfilling. Our academy evolved into a sanctuary, a place where these incredible girls could freely express themselves, fostering a sense of safety and comfort.

Embracing Empowerment at Fairtrade

I conducted a workshop at Fairtrade Lebanon, a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming lives in rural areas through agriculture. Teaching these remarkable women was an absolute delight! I introduced them to the myriad benefits of learning Jiu-Jitsu – from self-defense and physical fitness to boosting self-confidence, self-esteem, and assertiveness. Beyond fostering a supportive community, Jiu-Jitsu cultivates discipline, focus, and perseverance. Jiu-Jitsu, as I highlighted during the workshop, offers a comprehensive approach to women’s empowerment. It addresses not just the physical but also the psychological aspects of personal growth. By arming women with essential tools, skills, and a resilient mindset, Jiu-Jitsu significantly contributes to fostering empowered and self-assured women.

Group of people participating in an outdoor activity under a canopy tent, with a banner in the background and greenery around.
Group of women exercising outdoors, performing squats in a courtyard area. Various casual outfits, some sporting activewear. Participants are focused and engaged.
Group of women practicing self-defense moves outdoors in a courtyard with green plants.
Two people practicing self-defense techniques on a concrete floor, with one person on top holding the other's arm.
Group of women practicing self-defense techniques in an outdoor setting.
Two women in a casual setting, one with her arm around the other's shoulders, standing outdoors near foliage and a building. The woman in front is wearing a black tank top and light blue pants. The background includes greenery and part of a building.
Group of women outdoors next to a building wall with a window, one is sitting, others standing, with backpacks and a water bottle nearby.
A group of people outdoors participating in a fitness activity, with women squatting and smiling, surrounded by a concrete wall and greenery.
Group of people sitting on the ground, appearing to engage in a casual discussion or activity, outside a building. Some are seated on chairs, while most are on the concrete floor, dressed in casual attire.
A group of women participating in a self-defense class outdoors. They are in a fighting stance, wearing casual athletic clothing. The setting features a covered area with chairs and a wall with decorative elements.
Two people in sportswear practicing self-defense techniques outdoors on a textured ground surface. One person is lying on the ground with legs raised, while the other is leaning forward in a defensive stance.
People participating in a team-building or teamwork exercise outdoors. One person is seated on the ground while another helps them stand up. Others are in the background, also engaged in the activity, all dressed casually.
Group of people sitting on a concrete floor participating in an exercise session, holding up one hand each. They are in an outdoor, covered area with chairs and a banner in the background.
Group of people practicing self-defense techniques in an outdoor setting, with participants on the ground engaged in grappling and others observing.
Two people standing outside, one wearing a blue shirt, the other behind with arms around in a hug, by a fence and car.
Group of people sitting on a concrete floor outdoors, engaged in conversation.
Women in a self-defense class, one on the ground, others watching.
Two women outside in a backyard, one woman standing in front and the other behind her with her arm around the front woman's shoulders. They are surrounded by plants and a building is in the background.
Group of women practicing self-defense techniques outdoors under a canopy.
Two individuals on the ground in a mock self-defense scenario, with one person in a black tank top kneeling over another lying down in a white shirt and sunglasses.
Women practicing self-defense techniques outdoors with a group observing.
Group of women posing outdoors under a gazebo, with trees and a building in the background.

Building Strength and Security: Tailored Self-Defense Programs

Introductory Workshops

My Introductory Workshops provide a practical foundation in self-defense, focusing on essential skills such as maintaining distance, situational awareness, and breaking free from common holds. These short sessions are designed to give participants the tools to feel more confident and secure in everyday situations.

Comprehensive Self-Defense Programs

My Comprehensive Self-Defense Programs offer a deeper dive into self-protection skills, combining progressive training in martial arts like Jiu-Jitsu with mental preparedness and physical conditioning. Participants build resilience over time, mastering techniques and strategies to handle a variety of real-life scenarios with confidence and decisiveness.

Customized Workshops

I offer Customized Workshops tailored to meet the specific needs of diverse groups, such as women, youth, corporate teams, or humanitarian workers. These sessions are designed with the unique challenges of each group in mind, ensuring participants gain the practical skills and empowerment needed to navigate their specific environments safely and effectively.

NGOs I collaborated with

  • Fair Trade Lebanon logo with "Improving Lives" slogan, featuring a red and green design.
  • Logo with red and black letters 'hd' and text 'Mediation for peace'.
  • Afel logo with "Restoring Childhood Since 1976" text.
  • Logo of Caritas Italiana with a red cross symbol and Italian text.
  • Logo of the National Association for Vocational Training & Social Services (NAVTSS) featuring two hands shaking.
  • Logo of Our Lady of Hope, Fattal Foundation for Education, featuring a hand holding a pen within a blue square.
  • UNDP logo with United Nations emblem
  • International Rescue Committee logo with yellow background and black arrow design.
  • Stylized "MWA" logo with red, yellow, and green letters on a white background.
  • Word "MOSAIC" in geometric blue and purple font with gender symbol inside "O"