My karate journey began in 2020 and has been an outstanding experience over the past six years. What started as a simple interest cultivated into a passion that shaped both my skills and character. Along my journey, I’ve earned medals and trophies, formed friendships, and learned valuable life lessons.

Like all karatekas, I began as a white belt and progressed steadily through consistent training and dedication. The basics were long and tiring, requiring lots of time, dedication, and patience. After moving up in belt, I competed in my first club tournament and won two gold medals. This success opened a pathway into regional and national karate competitions.

The journey was not always easy. It was hard, arduous, and competitive. I faced tough losses and early exits at regional and national tournaments, some not even winning a medal. This tested my patience and confidence and inspired me to train harder and longer. Through my persistence and hard work, I achieved a breakthrough, winning two gold medals in kata and kumite, followed by my first national silver medal.

My performances led to international opportunities, including competing at the Australian Open against the best in Oceania. It was my first time travelling to another country to compete in karate, where I won my first international gold medal. This was an amazing experience, and I was very proud to represent my club, New Zealand Karate Academy and New Zealand. I later travelled to Japan, the birthplace of karate, for the International Wadokai Cup, training with Sensei Takamasa Arakawa and the New Zealand wadokai team. In this tournament, I achieved a fifth-place finish, which further strengthened my experience and determination.

I am grateful to Newzealankan karate academy and coaches, family and friends and special thanks go to Shihan Dhammika Ariyaratna for consistent support and guidance throughout my karate journey.