Success Stories
“A few people of integrity can go a long way.”
Olwethu Gusha
UCT Law Graduate
When I started Karate I was very unfit and had very little self-esteem. Amongst many things, Karate has taught me respect and self-discipline. It has taught me that hard work and dedication does pay off and that if you work hard enough, you will be rewarded.
In the beginning I trained with many of my friends but when most of them left, I stayed. I have been rewarded for my dedication by travelling the world, seeing places and experiencing things I normally would not have, all thanks to Karate.
Ryan Esau
Sensei
I have been a student of Frank Shihan for over 20 years.
Frank Shihan has filled the shoes of my absent father and has supported me through the toughest times as a boy and young man.
I have been given the gift of traveling to Italy, Holland and Japan where I graded to my Black Belt.
I have had it tough growing up and if it was not for Goju Kai’s help when I was in need of direction I would not be the success I am today.
Xolisile Hiti
Sensei
Xolisile has been training under the Brandon family at the hombu dojo for the past 20 years. He graded to his 4th dan in 2018.
Xolisile was instrumental in the growth of karate in the township and continues to be a role model for all karateka.
He has travelled to Italy representing AWOL on a cultural exchange and competed in Rotterdam, Holland at the World Karate Championships.
Xolisile currently works at AWOL’S major sponsor, Sisco international under the guidance of our dear friend and CEO of the company , Mr Philip Barton as a factory manager.
He is a former multiple national champion and was placed 3rd in the world as a junior.
Khanya Gwabeni
Nidan
Khanya travelled abroad for the first time in 2013 to Mumbai, India where he took part in the 6th Goju Kai Karate World tournament and competed against the best in the world. He did incredibly well and became the World Champion. This tournament takes place every 4 years.
In 2017 Khanya was again chosen to represent South Africa in the 7th World Championship held in Vancouver, Canada.
He smashed the record books by winning 3 gold medals in three different events making him the first South African to accomplish this.
Khanya currently trains at the head office of the All Africa Karate do Goju Kai Association in Mowbray, Cape Town. All his travels abroad and training is fully sponsored by AWOL.