Discover the inspiring story of an ITF Taekwon-do practitioner from Congo, who has dedicated over 20 years to promoting this discipline despite the challenges he has faced.
How and why did you start training in Taekwon-Do ITF?
I started in martial arts at the age of 10 with Karate, then switched to WT Taekwondo. Between 1998 and 1999, I became interested in ITF Taekwon-do with the help of Master George Ashiru, who was then in charge of Nigeria. We joined the ITF Administration for the first time thanks to him.
How long have you been practicing Taekwon-Do ITF?
Since 1999/2000, which means I have been dedicated to this discipline for over 20 years. During this time, I have seen how it has evolved and impacted my life in various ways.
What has been your motivation to continue in this discipline over the years?
My motivation has always been to develop ITF in Congo because we were the only group trying to do so.
What obstacles have you faced in your journey within Taekwon-Do ITF?
The promotion and all other resources, and the biggest obstacle is the WT Federation in Congo. The sports law only accepts one national federation per style or martial art, and the WT has been there as a federation and has been an obstacle all these years. They do not want another form of Taekwondo. Our brother from the Democratic Republic of Congo had the same problem, but in the end, they succeeded in becoming a federation, so I am trying, but we have a long way to go.
What have been your most significant achievements in Taekwon-Do ITF?
It was in Sweden when I received the Integration and Cultural Award in 2010 for the project “education of children and youth through Martial Taekwondo.” Helping some other countries in Africa to join ITF, as we have an organization ITF Africa that we try to develop in Africa to promote ITF, as we did to support our brother from the Democratic Republic of Congo, is something that I am proud of.
Have you had the opportunity to represent Congo in international Taekwon-Do ITF competitions?
In Congo, associations do not have the support of the Ministry of Sports, they only support national federations, so as associations, we have to do this alone and it is difficult to travel to international championships.
What impact do you think Taekwon-Do ITF has had on your personal and professional life?
You have certainly heard people saying “Taekwondo forever,” that’s what Taekwondo is for me, a lifestyle. All my life has been Taekwondo and that has helped me to always do good. I have been an instructor for many years and I need to be a good example for youth, kids, and the same in my professional life, my colleagues appreciate what I do and that is thanks to Taekwondo.
Do you currently teach Taekwon-Do ITF in schools or institutes? If yes, what has been your experience as an instructor?
I teach Taekwondo first in a youth center, it is a project for youth and kids and a small group of adults. It is more private and I am trying to develop my brand, Master Claude Martial Arts Academy, in Sweden. In Congo, there are 3 schools under the Academy and we are opening the fourth school. I started to teach first in Congo in 2000 and in Sweden in 2008.
His dedication and commitment to Taekwon-do ITF have not only left a mark on his personal and professional life but have also been a driving force for the development of this discipline in his country and throughout Africa. His story is a reminder that the true martial spirit goes beyond techniques and competitions, and lies in the perseverance and determination to keep going despite the obstacles.