Building Better Lives, using Jiu-Jitsu to Make a Difference
In addition to my expertise in digital marketing and the design world, I am a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu with a focus on self defense for women and kids. I am a strong believer that martial arts should be taught in schools. Not only because they boost confidence, self control and fitness but because the more we train in situations simulating real life attack situations, the more our mind and bodies are adjusted to react in the proper way if we are exposed to danger.
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.
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.
Humanitarian Dialogue
I had the privilege of offering a seminar to a team from the Swiss based Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue. It was a lot of fun for all of us and included basic concepts of self defense, controlling space, how to fall, how to stand up tactically and defensively, some elements of ground fighting and even how to choke. It was a basic introduction to Jiu-Jitsu, hopefully they fell in love with it like I have.
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.
Inspiring Transformation and Inclusivity in Lebanon
I'm thrilled to witness the shift in the Lebanese mentality. As a female Jiu-jitsu black belt, nothing brings me greater joy than sharing my passion and knowledge for this sport, transcending age, gender, physique, and background. My goal is to inspire more people to join the transformative world of Jiu-jitsu and foster a vibrant, inclusive community.
Empowered and inspired!
I had the pleasure of giving an introductory jiu-jitsu workshop to 10 amazing women. Not only does Jiu-Jitsu promote self-defense and physical fitness, but it also builds strong communities, boosts self-esteem, and enhances problem-solving abilities- thinking quickly under pressure. Seeing these incredible women having a blast, training, and learning was as much fun for me as it was for them.
Expressed through articles, my journey unfolds, revealing raw emotions and deep reflections. Since the inception of my path, my resounding call has been for change and the empowerment of women across Lebanon.
it's a colo{u}rful world
Montreal tips
LBCI
Submission Shark
Jits Guy podcast
Radio Canada
Echoes Across Continents: The Journey to Montreal from Lebanon
Book A workshop
Introductory
I conduct two types of workshops: an introductory 2-hour session where attendees acquire fundamental survival skills
Full program
More extensive program spanning 16 sessions. Offers a comprehensive commitment, guiding participants in self-defense techniques tailored to read their environment, develop ground defense skills, foster a self-defense mindset, enhance fitness, and promote self-empowerment.
NGOs I collaborated with
