MY JOURNEY AS A BLACK BELT by Elise Sammy

In November of 2023, I earned my black belt. I was very proud of myself, but at the same, I realized that getting my black belt didn’t mean I was “done" with my karate journey. Earning my black belt meant I have more responsibility, more expectations and to work even harder because now the lower belts look up to me more than before.

Since then, I’ve learned so much not just about karate, but also about myself. Being a black belt means more than just knowing how to kick , block or punch. It means setting a good example for younger belts and want to be like me, helping them in their journey, and always trying to improve myself for them.

There were times when I felt like giving up whether it was because of tough training, getting tired, or feeling like I wasn’t good enough. But I kept going because I was only doing this for me. That’s what being a black belt taught me no to quit when things are rough but to keep pushing to be the best version of myself.

One of the best parts of being a black belt has been helping the lower belt. It’s weird in the beginning because you’re used to being the one learning, but now people look up to you and see you as a role model. That made me more responsible and more confident in my teaching. .In 2024 we went to Mexico for a international competition and came back with five medals. Four bronze and one silver. Even though I wasn't one of the people who won a medal, I was still proud of myself because I performed in front of a whole stadium for the first time in my life. Mexico was also the first country my brother and I went to.

In Mexico we built friendship with not only our team but fellow competitors from all over the world. It was amazing seeing all the people who karate as well and all the different ages from 5 to 70, and we all bonded over karate. Even after two years, I’m still learning. The journey doesn’t stop at black belt, it just changes. I’m excited to see where it takes me next.