In a world where the safety of women and youth remains a pressing concern, sensei Takis Chaniotakos is on a mission to empower them through the timeless discipline of karate.
With 40 years of experience and a level six dan black belt, Chaniotakos (57) stands as a stalwart advocate for traditional martial arts and its role in building confidence, strength and resilience, especially for women facing the grim reality of abuse.
“I believe that women’s self-defence is essential. Women abuse has, unfortunately, become normalised in society and karate is one way to equip them with the skills to protect themselves, both mentally and physically.”
Chaniotakos is the owner of the Atlasville dojo, affiliated with New World Shotokan Karate (NWS) with a dojo in Benoni, where he has been teaching for over two decades.
After a career in the airline industry, he was retrenched in 2002. At that pivotal moment, having just earned his third dan, he decided to open his karate club in Atlasville and devote his life to the art.
“I never looked back,” he says, reflecting on his 22-year journey as a sensei.
At the Atlasville dojo, Chaniotakos teaches karate in the traditional New World Shokotan style.
“Classes are open to all ages and levels, with a special emphasis on women and youth, instilling in them not just the techniques of self-defence but the principles of discipline, respect and perseverance.
“I currently have 100 members, many of whom have trained under my guidance to achieve black belts.”
His students have excelled in competitions at regional, provincial, and national levels, proudly representing Ekurhuleni, Gauteng and South Africa.
“I’ve had the privilege of training countless students who have gone on to achieve great things in karate, earning their black belts and excelling in competitions,” Chaniotakos shared.
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He is also a senior instructor within the NWS, affiliated with the dojo, and holds the highest level of referee certification in NWS South Africa.
His accomplishments extend beyond the dojo, as he has traveled internationally, including to Japan, to train under top Japanese instructors and referee at prestigious events such as world championships and the Karate Commonwealth Games.
From 2019 to 2022, Chaniotakos served as president of the Ekurhuleni Karate Federation, further cementing his dedication to promoting the sport and uplifting the community.
While his achievements in karate are numerous, Chaniotakos emphasises that the journey hasn’t been without its challenges, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Balancing my family life with my passion for karate was tough, but my family understood and supported me throughout the journey,” he said.
For Chaniotakos, karate is more than a sport; it’s a way of life that fosters both physical and mental fortitude.
His dojo is a safe haven where anyone is welcome to learn, grow, and thrive – whether their goal is self-defence, fitness, or simply the pursuit of personal development.
As he continues to promote karate and women’s self-defence, he hopes to inspire the next generation of youth to follow in his footsteps, using martial arts as a tool for empowerment and positive change.
To become a member, contact Chaniotakos on 083 236 6688.
Also Read: Atlasville’s Dojo NWS triumphs at Dojo Cup
