ALL NEW EMPOWER 360: SELF-DEFENCE WORKSHOPS
Posted on
Introducing a self-defense program meticulously crafted for real-world scenarios. Seamlessly merging insightful discussions with hands-on practical skills, this approach fosters a holistic synergy of mental and physical readiness.
Techniques are designed for participants of all ages, sizes, and abilities. See below for full course description and instructor bios.
📅 [2025] EMPOWER 360: SELF-DEFENCE WORKSHOPS
[Women’s Self-Defence] Course Date: Saturday Jan. 11, 2025
Course Duration: 3 Hours
Timing: Arrival 10:45 am — Workshop Starts: 11:00 am (sharp) – 2:00 pm
Location: The High Performance Studios | 3046 Bloor St W, Etobicoke, ON
Instructor: Jerry Oei
Program Description: Equip yourself with essential self-defense skills tailored for real-life situations. This course, led by Jerry Oei, a seasoned martial artist and Platinum Level Fitness Leader, focuses on practical techniques designed to address everyday challenges women may face. From defending against physical confrontations to learning how to de-escalate threats, this program emphasizes realistic, easy-to-learn strategies that can be applied in real-world scenarios.
Jerry’s decade of expertise in martial arts and fitness ensures a supportive, hands-on learning environment where you’ll build confidence, awareness, and physical strength. This course is not about fighting but about empowering women to navigate the world with confidence, security, and the skills to protect themselves effectively. See Global News Special
Program Cost:
- Early Bird Rate: $120.00 – Must Register 2 weeks prior to the course start date to be eligible for Early Bird Rates. (Regular Cost $150.00)
- Existing Member Discount 10%: Please contact us for discount code Request Now
[Co-ed Self-Defence] Course Date: Sunday Mar. 23, 2025
Course Duration: Half Day Workshop (4 Hours)
Timing: Arrival 12:15 pm — Workshop Starts: 12:30 pm (sharp) – 4:30 pm
Location: Kingsway Boxing Gym Facility | 265 Norseman Street
Instructor: Sifu Lawrence Makoto Kabayama
Program Description: Join Makoto Kabayama, a 24th-generation Samurai and seasoned martial artist, in a unique self-defense program designed for all ages and skill levels. Drawing on decades of experience in traditional martial arts, Filipino Martial Arts, and modern defensive tactics, Makoto offers a comprehensive approach to personal safety that blends the philosophy of Bushido with practical techniques for real-world scenarios.
This inclusive program teaches participants to develop awareness, build confidence, and apply effective self-defense strategies in everyday situations. Whether you’re a beginner or have prior experience, Makoto’s expertise in training diverse groups, including international Guardian Angels chapters and law enforcement, ensures a safe and supportive environment for learning.
Discover the art of self-protection and the philosophy of peacekeeping in this empowering course designed for individuals and families alike.
Program Cost:
- Early Bird Rate: $120.00 – Must Register 2 weeks prior to the course start date to be eligible for Early Bird Rates. (Regular Cost $150.00)
- Existing Member Discount 10%: Please contact us for discount code Request Now
⚠️IMPORTANT NOTE TO PARTICIPANTS
- Please arrive no earlier than 5 mins (but not late) – this program is a drop-off and pick up. To allow for the participants to feel comfortable and not self-conscience, we ask that there are no spectators.
- All equipment will be provided.
✅ WHAT TO EXPECT
HOW MANY OF YOU HAVE BEEN IN A SITUATION THAT YOU KNEW THE RIGHT THING TO DO BUT COULDN’T DO IT?
- Self-Defense is easy when you know the attack is coming
- 2 Rules Of Self-Defense – AVOIDANCE & SURVIVAL – You are not trying to ‘Win’ in a self-defense situation – it’s not a boxing match or competition. Your main goal when you’re faced with a situation in which contact is unavoidable is to show the attacker that you’re NOT an easy target
YOU WILL LEARN:
- Likely situations and avoidance techniques
- Survival techniques
- Most common attack scenarios
- What matters (and doesn’t matter!) in self-defence
MEET THE INSTRUCTORS
Sifu Lawrence Makoto Kabayama
Born Lawrence Makoto Kabayama, he studied Dance, Eurythmics and Theatre Arts in residence at the National Ballet School of Canada from 1969 until 1974. It was then that he began his formal training in the martial art of Kendo under his father, Dr. Michiomi Kabayama.
Later, he was inspired by his Grandfather, Rev. Jun Kabayama, to investigate and embrace the history of the Kabayama Bukei and his place as a 24th generation Samurai. This would begin his search for traditional martial arts and the philosophy of the Samurai: Bushido (the Way of the Peacemaker).
Makoto’s natural talent as a peacekeeper and unique persona soon found him working security throughout the Toronto music scene during the 70’s. As his reputation grew, Makoto’s responsibilities began to include personal protection, most notably escorting victims of violent crime to court ‘pro bono’, as well as onstage security with celebrities such as James Brown, Jello Biafra, etc.
Makoto spent 5 years as a Training Coordinator for the Guardian Angels. He trained and patrolled with Guardian Angels chapters internationally, including Toronto, New York City and London, England. Makoto achieved ‘Guro’ status in Filipino Martial Arts and is certified is a Law Enforcement Use of Force Continuum Defensive Tactics Instructor. Learn More About Makoto
Jerry Oei
Jerry brings over 10 years of extensive martial arts expertise and holds the prestigious Platinum Level Fitness Leader certification from the Ontario Fitness Council. He is also a Certified Weight Trainer and Fitness Instructor with OFC, complemented by multiple fitness certifications from CanFitPro. Adding to his impressive credentials, Jerry holds a diploma in Fitness and Health Promotion from Humber College, reflecting his comprehensive knowledge and commitment to health and wellness.
“I found my love of fitness through my love of sports and the martial arts. As I grew up I discovered deep routed passion for pushing my body to its limits and improving how I could perform, move, feel and look. The body is the vessel for the mind, and as our bodies grow so do our minds”
“I am passionate about sharing my love of fitness with others; helping and teaching people to discover and develop their bodies to look and feel better, perform at a higher level, or to simple walk without pain is rewarding beyond explanation. I constantly seek to help my client’s journey further down the lifelong road towards mastering the human body. ”
Coach Jennifer Huggins
JENNIFER HUGGINS began following her dreams at a young age when she devoted nearly the first half of her life to the sport of competitive figure skating.
After an unfortunate accident that cut her skating career short; Jennifer turned to the sport of boxing as both a rehabilitation activity and therapeutic tool. Her passion flame grew from there and in 2006 she opened the very successful, Kingsway Boxing Club, boxing gym facility. Through her entrepreneurial ambitions, Jennifer was now given the rare opportunity to work with two of her greatest loves; the sport of boxing and the community.
In addition to all of her commitments, Jennifer traveled the world over the past decade, performing on some of the grandest stages, as an assistant to a professional magician. Through her love of boxing, business and entertainment, the Fight To End Cancer (FTEC) was conceived in 2011. Overseeing the day-to-day development of FTEC as the Executive Director – she, along with her executive planning team, are on a mission to make it one of the top fundraisers, both locally and abroad. Jennifer now divides her time between her role with FTEC, running the Kingsway Boxing Club and her newest role, travelling the world as an Official for Olympic Boxing at the international level.
In May of 2016, Jennifer traveled to Astana, Kazakhstan where she had the honour of being 1 of only 9 Ambassadors for the International Boxing Association’s (AIBA) Women’s World Championships. This extremely prestigious role had Jennifer internationally representing Canada for female athletes and referee officials, in the sport of boxing.
Coach Shireen Fabing
Shireen has been a competitive boxer since the day she first laced up her first pair of boxing gloves. Still competing as an amateur boxer, she continues to enjoy the sport in and outside the ring, sharing her joy of the sport with the community. Shireen works with recreational and competitive boxers, helping to educate the world on the benefits of boxing!
“When I found boxing (or boxing found me), for a while I thought ‘why didn’t I find this sport earlier in life’, but as I began to progress, that thought is now a distant memory. I believe we found each other at the right time. Boxing is on the rise. Women’s boxing is on the rise and I’m living it now.”
[ARCHIVE] Keep Up With Correspondence Sent Out To Program Participants
At Kingsway Boxing the safety of our community is our number one priority. We kindly urge all attendees to be mindful of their health before participating in any classes or training sessions.
Our staff trainers and coaches remain dedicated to upholding strict protocols ensuring the safety and well-being of our Kingsway family. Thorough cleaning and sanitation take place between clients and classes to maintain a clean and hygienic environment.
We are committed to hosting an environment that empowers everyone to excel and accomplish their goals in a healthy and positive setting.
Jun 22, 2024: Program Update
Good Morning Self Defence Team
We can’t wait to spend the afternoon with you. It’s a small group so we’re looking forward to some hands on technical work!
Please note the below logistics, My personal cell number is +1 (416) 666-9314 for emergency.
- Course Date: Sat. Jun. 22
- Course Duration: Half Day Workshop (4 Hours)
- Timing: Arrival 12:15 pm — Workshop Starts: 12:30 pm (sharp) – 4:30 pm
- Location: Kingsway Boxing Gym Facility | 22-B Jutland Road (our entrance is on the right hand side of the Metal Supermarkets)
- Parking: Main Lot or use any surrounding lots including Metal Supermarkets
- Instructor: Sifu Lawrence Makoto Kabayama
Oct 04, 2021: Program Update
Good Afternoon Teens and Parents!
I wanted to officially introduce myself and my assistant, Shireen Fabing (bio’s at the bottom). We are incredibly excited to meet you all and can’t wait for the opportunity to work with you! Please read below and contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
Important Notes:
- This is a private closed group arranged by Victoria Murray — Invite Only
- Prior to arrival, all participants must complete: COVID Screening Tool
- Please arrive no earlier than 5 mins (but not late) – this program is a drop-off and pick up. To allow for the girls to feel comfortable and not self-conscience, we ask that there are no spectators.
- Partner Drills will be limited to the same partner throughout the session (full garage door will also remain open throughout the workshop).
- All equipment will be provided.
Workshop Structure:
This workshop is an intro to self-defence program. We will touch on all aspects of self defence and next steps.
- Brief Introductions (5 min)
- Basic Striking, Building Confidence & Body Awareness — Boxing Skills (15 min)
- Self-Defence Tactics (20 min)
- Discussion: Situations And Avoidance Techniques 20 min
Meet The Instructors — Words From Jennifer Huggins:
I feel extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to share my life skills and passions with my community. The first half of my life was completely focused on competitive figure skating. When it was snatched from me due to a serious injury, I felt lost and alone. The sport of boxing saved me; it helped send me in the right direction and most of all gave me purpose. Much of my self-defense techniques were developed on during my Jeet Kune Do training with Makoto Kabayama (first certified instructor to teach Jeet Kune Do Concepts in Canada). First founded by Bruce Lee in 1967, Jeet Kune Do is a blend of a variety of martial arts. With the techniques and tactics developed through my training with Jeet and Boxing, I strive to pass on the practical application of not only self-defense, but self-awareness. Full Bio
Meet Shireen Fabing:
Shireen has been a competitive boxer since the day she first laced up her first pair of boxing gloves. Still competing as an amateur boxer, she continues to enjoy the sport in and outside the ring, sharing her joy of the sport with the community. Shireen works with recreational and competitive boxers, helping to educate the world on the benefits of boxing!
“When I found boxing (or boxing found me), for a while I thought ‘why didn’t I find this sport earlier in life’, but as I began to progress, that thought is now a distant memory. I believe we found each other at the right time. Boxing is on the rise. Women’s boxing is on the rise and I’m living it now.”
In The Meantime, Keep Your Hands Up… And Clean! 👊
Best Regards,
