Empowering women through self-defence

NOTHING compares to the element of surprise that comes when an attacker who is expecting to pounce upon a woman without much resistance is floored by her.

Adopting a more security-conscious attitude without being trained in self-defence can also make a world of difference, as expressed by several women with whom I spoke. They include women who were shy, reserved and seen as easy prey. These women have either been taking self-defence classes or applying safety and defence tips on their own, but the feeling is the same — they are now more confident and feel empowered to fight back.

Janice, a nurse, who describes herself as shy and sheltered, says she is now very confident since she started self-defence classes.

“I am a nurse by profession and I was a shy person, very shy and sheltered, and as a result even my boyfriend would take advantage of me. I have suffered abuse in the past from his hand and past relationships. But since I signed up for self-defence training, my confidence level has been boosted significantly. I am now sharing with other nurses the benefits of actually doing self-defence classes. I would recommend it to every woman out there.”

Self-defence is not karate, and the skills can be acquired by anyone regardless of age. Forty-five-year-old teacher Marcia Wilson, who has received training and is applying the safety tips, says she has become much more security-conscious as a result.

“I was introduced to Safety4Sistas by a friend who works at Jamaica Customs, and having read and applied the tips, I found out that I started feeling a lot more confident while driving to and from school and even when I am at home. I was not a security-conscious person but Safety4Sistas has really opened my eyes to the many dangers that exist.”

Although you will definitely feel more confident about being trained to defend yourself, do not go off on a happy hunt seeking persons to engage. You can be quietly confident and utilise the skills as needed. Deon, who has received training, is doing just that. Although she has not had to defend herself against an attacker since receiving training, she is much more aware of her surroundings.

“I have not yet got the chance to utilise my skills, but I do feel more secure and aware at the fact that I can defend myself if needed. It’s not just about fighting techniques; it’s about being aware of your surroundings also. I would recommend that all individuals, if they are able to, learn self-defence. It’s very useful.”

Nowhere is totally safe, not even an environment that has armed guards or a gated community, and women are becoming more aware of that. With reports of incidents in our schools and on college campuses, you cannot afford to lose sight of the need to be security-conscious, even at a place of learning.

For university student Sheneyl Ruddock, reading safety tips has been a life-changing experience, which has made her far more security-conscious.

“It addresses situations that could arise for which I would otherwise have had no response. Why guess how you’d react if you were attacked or had to defend yourself or your loved ones? Get a solid plan. From the day I read the first article, I found that I carried myself differently and I am definitely more aware of my surroundings. I think other women should get on board as it can change lives. Get a plan, or else passively be a victim,” she said.

With the busy lifestyles of our women today, personal safety is sometimes the last thing on their minds. However, it is important to put your welfare first. So take the time to either read and begin applying safety tips, or rearrange your busy lifestyle to acquire skills that can one day save your life or the life of a loved one.

Jerome Morgan is a personal security and self-defence enthusiast with over 11 years’ experience in security and intelligence locally and internationally. He is also a certified private investigator, black belt instructor and Krav Maga who is passionate about helping the most vulnerable, including women, to defend themselves. E-mail archangel9mm@gmail.com or visit Archangel on Facebook.