Kickboxing Workshop with Heka Leka Study Group students

Initially, the Heka Leka Study Group students were hesitant and afraid when invited to join the kickboxing class. They imagined kickboxing to be like boxing on television—having to duel and fight. However, we assured them that this first meeting was just a basic introduction: about what kickboxing is, its benefits, and the important message behind it—is it okay to fight carelessly after learning kickboxing?

This is where the main value of this class was conveyed. The more people learn, the better they will be able to control themselves. “The more we learn, the better we will be at controlling ourselves and the wiser we will become,” said Paul Tahapary, who, along with Shana Lammers/Leatemia from @Moluccanfighters, trained the students in this workshop.

The kickboxing workshop held last Sunday successfully instilled courage and confidence in the study group students. They learned to channel and control their emotions in positive ways. Children who were initially withdrawn and shy gradually became able to deliver powerful, targeted, and strategic punches and kicks. The courage to believe in their own abilities began to grow. The change in their expressions and attitudes—from quiet at the beginning of the class to more open and confident by the end—was very visible.

From this inaugural class, we learned again that nothing is truly simple when done with good intentions. Sincerity and a passion for sharing will always find a way to impact others. A huge thank you to Paul @tatuenu for initiating this activity, and to Shana for wholeheartedly helping the kids. Shana is a Dutch-born athlete who frequently represents Indonesia in kickboxing competitions. Even before returning to the Netherlands, she flew from Bali to Ambon just to share with these kids. Thank you so much, Sis.

Kickboxing is ultimately just a tool—one method to help kids learn courage, discipline, self-control, and confidence. This class wasn’t the first and certainly won’t be the last. There will be more meetings to come, and we look forward to welcoming other kickboxers to continue sharing.

Kickboxing is cool!

Greetings from Smart Maluku!