In a world where screens and social media dominate children's lives, Egyptian trainer Maryam Ahmed is on a mission to help them find balance and build confidence through Aikido. With a background in the Japanese martial art, Maryam believes that Aikido is not just a form of self-defense, but a way to teach children valuable life skills such as discipline, focus, and self-awareness. By using Aikido, Maryam aims to help children develop physically, emotionally, and mentally.

Maryam's journey with Aikido began with her own passion for the martial art, which she believes has the power to transform lives. She noticed that many children were becoming increasingly isolated and sedentary, spending more time on their phones and less time interacting with others. This sparked her idea to create an Aikido academy specifically for children, where they could learn not only self-defense techniques but also essential life skills. Maryam's approach to teaching Aikido focuses on using an opponent's energy against them, rather than relying on brute force.

The Aikido academy, which Maryam founded in February 2021, offers a unique approach to teaching children. Rather than just focusing on physical movements, the academy aims to help children develop their character and build confidence. Maryam's teaching style emphasizes the importance of discipline, respect, and self-awareness, which she believes are essential for children to succeed in life. By learning Aikido, children can develop their problem-solving skills, learn to navigate challenging situations, and build strong relationships with others.

According to Maryam, the impact of social media on children has been significant, leading to increased isolation and decreased physical activity. She believes that Aikido can play a vital role in helping children overcome these challenges. By teaching children how to use their bodies and minds in a positive way, Maryam hopes to empower them to make healthy choices and develop a more balanced lifestyle. The academy's approach has already shown promising results, with many children and parents reporting positive changes in behavior and attitude.

Maryam's vision for the Aikido academy extends beyond just teaching children self-defense techniques. She aims to create a community of like-minded individuals who share her passion for Aikido and its values. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, Maryam hopes to help children build strong relationships with others and develop a sense of belonging. The academy's impact is already being felt beyond its walls, with many children and parents sharing their positive experiences with others.

As the academy's reputation grows, so does its impact on the community. Maryam's approach to teaching Aikido has resonated with many parents who are looking for a holistic approach to their child's development. By combining physical training with emotional and mental development, Maryam's academy offers a unique and valuable service. The academy's success is a testament to the power of Aikido to transform lives and build stronger, more confident individuals.

Looking to the future, Maryam is committed to continuing her work with the Aikido academy and spreading its message to a wider audience. She hopes to establish a strong and sustainable model for teaching Aikido in Egypt, one that will have a lasting impact on the lives of children and families. With its focus on building character, confidence, and community, Maryam's academy is set to make a lasting difference in the lives of many.

Key points

  • Maryam Ahmed uses Aikido to teach children valuable life skills such as discipline, focus, and self-awareness.
  • The Aikido academy aims to help children overcome isolation and build confidence in a world dominated by screens.
  • Maryam's approach to teaching Aikido focuses on using an opponent's energy against them, rather than relying on brute force.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.