Self Defense for Girls

A study from Charles Stuart University found that women who wear head coverings (hijab) are most at risk of abuse. Many Muslim women and girls are being targeted with verbal abuse, profanities, physical intimidation, and death threats in public places.

To prevent this from happening and to allow young girls to feel safe, the Islamic Women’s Welfare Association established a jiu jitsu self-defense program where girls aged 8-18 years old are taught how to develop healthy physical and emotional boundaries and how to defend themselves. The girls attend jiu jitsu classes once a week taught by a female instructor with a black belt in jiu jitsu.

Interest for the program were high however the number of participants was low due to the costs involved to undertake the lessons. The donation of $7845 from Canterbury covered the cost of hire of the venue, enrolment for 30 girls for one term, the cost of jiu jitsu uniforms and sparring gear.

“IWWA would like to give the girls in the community the confidence to walk outside without fear and teach them the skills to defend themselves should they ever have to.” said Abla Kadous, President of Islamic Women’s Welfare Association.

“I have watched these girls from the start, and I’ve witnessed their confidence grow exponentially. Girls who were once timid and shy are now confident and in leadership roles in their community” said Dianna Tarm, Manager at IWWA.

“These young girls are the future of Australia, and we need to give them the confidence to feel safe to get involved and make worthwhile contributions” said Peter Winchester, Chairman of Canterbury League Club.