Karate is one sporting code that is often misunderstood.
The sport is about more than just fighting. It teaches self-discipline and the importance of focusing on the goals set out.
One girl, who is determined to reach great heights in karate, is Isabella Lee Pillay.
The 14-year-old learner from Hoërskool Jeugland fell in love with karate when she was only nine.
She joined the Kimura Shukokai International Karate Dojo in Bedfordview under sensei Arturo Ballossini.
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Being a high school learner, Isabella juggles karate with school with the support of her family.
She trains on Tuesdays and Thursdays, then focuses only on school on other days.
Isabella recently participated in the KSI Karate World Championships in Cape Town, where 18 countries participated.
Isabella walked away with a bronze medal for kumite in the 14-15 age group cadet division.
On her second brown belt, Isabelle has hopes of becoming a black belt by the time she turns 18.
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“I wish to continue with karate throughout my life as it helps me focus, maintain self-discipline and more importantly as a woman, it allows me to protect myself if needed,” she said.
She added that her focus is now on the national tournament that will be held in September, and she hopes it will bring her closer to her goal of becoming a black belt.
