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Online self-defense
class -
In person self-defense
class - Expert instructors
Helping the women of South Africa to
Fight back against gender-based violence
Our mission is to equip women with the skills and confidence needed to stand strong against gender-based violence.
The Team
Ms Elyoné Coetzee
Director and Founding Member
Elyoné is a member of the Bushido Dojo organisation in which she holds a 2nd degree Black Belt. In 2016 she was a member of the Martial Arts South Africa, South African Development Team which participated at the 2016 World Martial Arts Games where she won 4 Gold Medals. She is actively involved in training and educating ladies in empowering themselves to deal with Gender Based Violence situations.
Ms Jessica Groenewald
Director
Jessica is a Chartered Accountant by profession as well as an ardent sportswoman. She is a 2 times South African racewalking champion. She is the current (2025) Africa and South Africa champion and record holder in the 35km racewalking event. She is very devoted to the Anti-Gender Based Violence cause. She has been involved since 2022.
Our Mission
Empowerment Through Self-Defense
At Bushido Self Defense, we are deeply committed to empowering women in South Africa, a nation where, regrettably, the specter of assault and rape looms large. Our mission is rooted in the belief that self-defense is not just a set of physical techniques; it is a path to self-assurance, strength, and personal liberation.
In a country with one of the world’s highest rates of violent crime against women, we stand as a beacon of hope and resilience. We offer a sanctuary where women can learn not only how to protect themselves but also how to carry themselves with an air of confidence that can deter potential threats. Our programs are more than classes—they are a movement towards changing the narrative.
Our Sponsors
Krag Apie
Elyon Incorporated
Available Now!
Our Self-defense academy
Learning how to defend yourself begins with you
Gallery
Testimonials
What others have to say
“I work a lot with study guides,
and I have great appreciation
for what you have created.
It is very neat, very thorough,
with great content. You really
have gone above and
beyond. Thank you.”
Nerine Erasmus
Equilibria School of Life
I have gone through the material that was
provided to me.
Impressive indeed.
Making everything look so easy. In my experience
this is the work of an expert in his discipline.
The program responds to a NEED in South Africa
and how to attain results with the help from
experts in the field.
I would love to join in on more of your sessions, to
observe how you and your team present and
execute the theory and practical applications.
Warm regards.”
Jongikhaya Kraai
NTHA
“This serves to provide a reference for Bushido Dojo, who we have had the pleasure of working
with from March 2022 till August 2022.
During this time, Bushido Dojo provided the residents of Eikenhof Ladies Residence with anti-
Gender Based Violence training. THE EXPERIENCE WAS NOTHING SHORT OF INCREDIBLE! The
patience and passion possessed for self-defense by the instructors as well as the relevance of it
in the South African context motivated participants to work hard while still enjoying the lessons.
Participants of the sessions praised Bushido for their insight and valuable lessons which were
highly anticipated on a weekly basis. They were extremely professional in their approach,
paying close attention to detail and ensuring that all work was completed to a high standard.
Their communication skills were outstanding, and they were always available to answer any
questions we had.
I highly recommend Bushido Dojo for any future projects. They have proven to be a reliable
and professional service provider; delivering high-quality work consistently. If you have any
questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind regards
Juniata Rupan
Eikenhof Ladies Residence Northwest University