Amin Abbas

DUBAI: Harmony Shotokan Karate-Do is a new martial arts academy in Dubai that’s dedicated to cultivating character and discipline through the traditional art of Shotokan karate.

“Harmony Shotokan Karate-Do Martial Arts Academy is the realization of my lifelong dream and dedication to karate. My journey began with a simple desire to blend physical and mental well-being, but it was fueled by witnessing the transformative power of Shotokan Karate-do on countless students,” Lebanese-American karate instructor and founder of the academy, Kyle Kamal Helou, told Arab News Japan.

Helou traveled to Japan to become a karate master and became part of the Japan Karate Shoto Federation (JKS) for more than 23 years, nine of those years being consecutive, starting from 2001 to 2009.

He became the only non-Japanese student to graduate from the JKS Instructor Training Program, which tested his skills and resilience. 

After that, he conducted karate classes from 2009 to 2021 in addition to a karate school program at Adma International School in Lebanon. “Through these various programs in Lebanon, over 1500 students developed into confident, disciplined individuals who are now successful professionals worldwide, including my own three children,” he reflected.

“This experience taught me the essence of harmony—balancing physical discipline with mental strength and personal development. The academy’s name, “Harmony,” reflects this philosophy. In Dubai, I aim to create a nurturing space where students don’t just learn karate; they embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, transforming challenges into victories,” Helou added. 

The academy offers a variety of programs designed to cater to different age groups and skill levels, including traditional Shotokan karate classes and specialized children’s programs. It also offers mindfulness and meditation sessions through the practice of the shakuhachi, a traditional Japanese bamboo flute.

“We believe in creating well-rounded individuals who excel in both mind and body. Our programs are more than just courses; they are journeys of self-discovery and empowerment, where students become the heroes of their own stories,” said the founder. 

Many participants who have visited the academy have given overwhelming positive feedback, with many describing their experiences as transformative. “Parents have expressed immense gratitude for the structured and culturally enriching programs we offer for children. They have witnessed their children blossom into confident and disciplined individuals, eager to share their achievements at home,” Helou said. 

“The enthusiasm and dedication of our students and their families have been a significant driving force behind our success. It’s their passion and commitment that fuel our mission, turning every challenge into an opportunity and every class into a step towards excellence,” he added.

The academy will be introducing a free karate class at the Japanese School in Dubai. This class is taught by Helou and is offered to Japanese nationals living in Dubai as a way to show gratitude to the Japanese community.