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AWMAI News
Fall 2025
In This Issue:
- Notes from The Board
- Upcoming Events
- Member Events and Submissions
-
- In Black & White by Zosia Gorbaty with Chaka Zulu
- Jaye Spiro Honored by Alkebu-lan’s Detroit Grand Masters
Photo of AWMAI Founders (left to right):
Dara Masi, Jamie Zimron, Barbara Dickens, Wasentha Young (missing Suzanne Pinette)
Photo by Tih Penfil, Teaching The Teacher 2025
April 10-12, 2026
New Orleans, Louisiana
Register by January 31 to get the best conference rate
Early bird rate for members $429
Early bird rate for non-members $529
Reserve your hotel room by March 9, 2026
Apply for a scholarship to attend AWMAI 2026
Jennie Trower
Greetings, AWMAI community!
We are excited to bring you conference updates and other important news in this edition, so let’s get right to it.
Teaching the Teacher Conference Heads to New Orleans!
We hope you plan to join us for the next Teaching the Teacher Conference, April 10-12, 2026, in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana!
We are so excited to bring our community of passionate women martial arts instructors together for three days of skill-building, networking, and inspiration. Whether you're a veteran school owner or a new instructor, this conference is designed to empower you with new techniques and fresh perspectives to take back to your students and business.
Registration is officially OPEN! We encourage you to secure your spot ASAP to take advantage of the early-bird rate.
In addition to attending, this is your chance to shine! The application to teach at the Conference is also open. We are actively seeking dynamic presenters to share their expertise across all styles and disciplines. If you have a unique workshop or an engaging session idea, please submit your proposal and help make this the most diverse and enriching conference yet. For a list of past conference sessions, please visit the conference page.
A New Chapter for AWMAI Leadership: Seeking the Next Executive Director
As I announced in Columbus at the 2025 conference and in the previous newsletter, I have made the decision to step down from the Board and transition out of my role as Executive Director.
My time serving this incredible community – and alongside this fantastic Board of Directors – has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I believe, however, that the time is right to bring a fresh perspective, new ideas, and new leadership to the helm of AWMAI. This is a critical moment for the Association to grow and adapt, and new vision is key to that evolution.
This is a chance for a passionate, organized, and visionary leader to help guide the future of AWMAI. We are looking for an individual with the dedication to lead our board, grow our membership, and ensure the continued success of events like the Teaching the Teacher Conference.
If you or someone you know has the skills and the drive to take on this vital role, I encourage you to visit our website for details on the position and a link to apply.
I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am excited to support the next leader who will guide AWMAI into its next chapter.
I look forward to seeing many of you in New Orleans!
AWMAI 2026 Teaching The Teacher Conference
April 10-12, 2026
Discover the Spirit of New Orleans
As you prepare for your trip to New Orleans, we encourage you to plan for a little (or a lot!) extra time to enjoy one of the most unique and lively cities in the United States. Famous for its music, food, and culture, New Orleans offers an endless variety of experiences – many of which are free or very affordable.
Wander the French Quarter
No trip to New Orleans is complete without time in the French Quarter. This historic neighborhood, with its wrought-iron balconies and cobblestone streets, is alive with energy day and night. Street performers, artists, and musicians add to the charm, and you can explore at your own pace. Stop at Jackson Square to see local artists display their work and enjoy the iconic view of St. Louis Cathedral.
Enjoy the Music
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and the city still offers countless opportunities to enjoy live music. Head to Frenchmen Street, where the sounds of brass bands often spill into the sidewalks, and many clubs have no cover charge. Even just walking through the streets, you’re likely to encounter talented performers.
Take in the River Views
The Mississippi Riverfront is a wonderful place to relax after a day of conference sessions. Stroll along the Moonwalk promenade, watch steamboats pass by, or sit with a coffee and soak up the atmosphere. The people-watching here is some of the best in the city!
Hop on a Streetcar
Board the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar and ride beneath oak trees past grand mansions, Loyola and Tulane universities, and the charming Garden District. It’s one of the most scenic (and budget-friendly) tours you can take.
Sample the Flavors of New Orleans
Food is part of the city’s heartbeat. Be sure to try beignets at Café du Monde (a must-have New Orleans treat) or grab a hearty po’boy sandwich from one of the many neighborhood shops. Even a simple meal here feels like part of the experience.
Explore the Parks and Neighborhoods
If you need a little green space, City Park is a huge urban oasis where you can stroll among centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss. It’s free to wander and you might also enjoy the Sculpture Garden or Botanical Garden inside. Exploring neighborhoods like the Marigny or Bywater districts also offers a taste of local life, with colorful houses, murals, and cafés around every corner.
From music and art to history and food, New Orleans invites you to dive into its culture at whatever pace you choose. Whether you’re here just for the conference or you decide to add on a day or two, the Crescent City will make your visit unforgettable.
Sarah Sponzo Fall is my favorite time of year. I’m not a summer girl, so I’m happy to leave the hot summer days behind and wake up to crisp mornings and warm dry days. I love the colors and the feel of this time. I understand the animals preparing for hibernation and a long winter, and I also welcome the season to be cozy, cook more, crochet more and get ready for finalizing plans for the AWMAI Conference next Spring! The coming winter may feel long, but before we know it, we’ll be gathering in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana! This event brings together women martial artists from across the country and world for an unforgettable weekend of learning, inspiration, and connection. You can look forward to dynamic training sessions with top instructors, thought-provoking seminars, interactive workshops, and plenty of time to share ideas with peers who share your passion. All while enjoying the Crescent City, and all it has to offer. Our host hotel, the DoubleTree by Hilton New Orleans, offers the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and Southern hospitality. Ideally located near the French Quarter and the Mississippi River, the hotel puts you just steps away from some of the city’s most iconic attractions, while providing a peaceful retreat after a busy day of conference sessions. Guest rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, featuring plush beds, in-room coffee makers, mini-fridges, and modern amenities to ensure a relaxing stay. The hotel’s welcoming staff and warm atmosphere make it easy to feel at home, whether you’re winding down after a day of workshops or getting ready for the evening banquet. Attendees will enjoy beautifully appointed meeting spaces, perfect for sessions, demonstrations, and networking events. With a special group rate that includes breakfast, the DoubleTree provides both convenience and comfort for our entire gathering. The conference program will be filled with opportunities to sharpen your skills, expand your knowledge, and discover new approaches for both your training and your business. One of the most anticipated highlights is always our Hall of Fame banquet, where we honor the incredible contributions of women in martial arts with an evening of recognition, celebration, and camaraderie. So mark your calendars now: April 10–12, 2026. Registration is officially open, and hotel rooms are ready to reserve. We can’t wait to see you in New Orleans! | Michele Montag
I hope I'll get to see you for AWMAI's Teaching the Teacher conference in New Orleans in 2026! Because of the incredible generosity of our members, scholarships are available for anyone who may need financial assistance to attend. Apply for a scholarship here. If you're able to donate to the Barbara Feldman Memorial scholarship fund to help others experience this incredible event, donate here. You may also donate in your registration form when you register for this year's conference. Thank you for being a part of this incredible community of martial artists! Parnee Poet
I hope you consider joining us April 10-12, 2026. To get the most affordable option, register before January 31! Early Bird Conference Fees:
I am committed to AWMAI because I am continually lifted up by our annual conference, Teachers’ Lounges, and each person on the Board that supports me in building AWMAI together, along with our busy lives of nurturing our schools, our teaching skills, our training, and community building together as martial arts instructors. I hope to see you in the Chahta Yakni and Chitimacha Territories, April 10-12, 2026! |
I love the energy that swirls and envelops us each time a group of AWMAI members gets together. Whether it's the annual conference or a Teachers' Lounge, I'm grateful to be part of a group where individuals are so generous in sharing their knowledge, time, and experience to help others succeed. No matter the event, I always leave with something I can implement immediately in my classes, my business, or my own practice. It's simply joyful!
I’m so excited our next in-person gathering is in Chahta Yakni and Chitimacha Territories also called New Orleans.Amelia Jones
As we continue nurturing growth, development, and excellence within our community, I am proud to share these exciting reminders.
Honoring Excellence: AWMAI Hall of Fame
Each year, the AWMAI Hall of Fame honors outstanding women martial arts instructors who have demonstrated long-standing commitment, leadership, and contribution to their art and to the broader martial arts community. This tradition is one of the most inspiring parts of our annual gathering — a moment where we reflect on the legacy being created by those who lead with integrity, perseverance, and vision.
Are you a martial artist whose dedication has shaped the lives of students, uplifted your community, and broken barriers in our field? Apply for this year’s Hall of Fame and receive the recognition you so richly deserve!
Supporting materials for applications:
- A martial arts resume, including a description of your contributions to the martial arts (2 pages maximum)
- A brief martial arts biography (150 words maximum)
- Documentation of duration of training, which may include:
- A copy of an early promotion certificate; or
- An official form or letter documenting the beginning of training; or
- A formal letter from an instructor or peer confirming 30-plus years of training
- Two letters of support from colleagues (each one page maximum)
- Two current photos (in jpeg format): one head shot and one action photo in full uniform
- A photo from 30 or more years ago, in uniform if possible (preferably in jpeg format)
Applicants must be current members (Join AWMAI), register and attend the next AWMAI Conference to be honored. AWMAI Hall of Fame Inductees receive a discount for all future AWMAI conferences and special events.
Upon application approval, a $200 fee will be required. The fee covers induction into the Hall of Fame, a beautiful plaque, and the Hall of Fame Banquet.
If this is not your first Hall of Fame award and you have achieved a milestone decade, there is a new streamlined application process.
Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
Please submit all application materials by 11:59 PM EST on January 31, 2026. Submissions received after this date will not be considered for the 2026 Hall of Fame cycle.
All applications will be carefully reviewed by the Certification Committee. Inductees will be announced in February, and honored at the 2026 AWMAI Conference in New Orleans.
Celebrating Our Trailblazers
The AWMAI Hall of Fame is not just about titles or time in practice — it’s about honoring those whose influence resonates far beyond the dojo walls. I encourage each of you to take a moment to reflect on your role as a mentor and visionary. Your application could be the spark that brings well-deserved recognition to your lifetime of dedication.
With deep respect for all that you do to uplift, empower, and lead.
In strength and service...
In Black & White by Zosia Gorbaty with Chaka Zulu
I assumed the role of AWMAI Executive Director at the 2008 annual conference. At that time, our finances were very close to being in the negative. I knew I had an enormous
task in front of me, but I was ready for the challenge. Fortunately, I was able to recruit
an excellent team to complete our Board. We all believed in the importance of the
survival of AWMAI and its mission.
We worked hard and even conducted the 2010 conference aboard a cruise ship! Then
in 2012, Certification Director Janice Okamoto and I instituted the first AWMAI Hall of
Fame, which has since become a highlight of every annual conference. Fast forward to
2014 and my goals had been achieved. I was excited for the future of AWMAI, and
gratefully handed over the reins to my dear friend, Koré Grate.
AWMAI has since grown and is a major force in the women’s martial arts instructors’
movement. It fills a gap that is clearly important to us all. Although I have since retired from actively teaching, my training continues. I also am excited to announce that I recently completed my memoir which, of course, includes several references to AWMAI.
For those of you who are new to AWMAI, I am married to my martial arts teacher, GM Chaka Zulu. As indicated on the book’s back cover, “IN BLACK & WHITE - This is the story of a Black man from Harlem descended from slaves and his wife, an immigrant Jewish daughter of Holocaust survivors. Both martial artists, they have been together since 1981 and have over 125 years of martial arts training combined. In this book, they relate what unique challenges and experiences they have faced, both individually and as a mixed race couple.”
As I write this article, my manuscript is with my editor and shall go to printing soon. You may purchase it here and wherever you buy your books!
Jaye Spiro Honored by Alkebu-lan’s Metro Detroit Senior Grand Masters
On July 19, Sensei Jaye Spiro was one of the honorees at the Alkebu-lan's Salute to Metro Detroit Senior Grand Masters event. Photo of her with some of the honored Grand Masters (listed in alphabetical order): Willie Adams, Dereke Batten, Curtis Butler, Marvis Cofield, Danny Dixon, Delfort G. Fort, Craig Gilmore, Larry Green, Karl Hatcher, Chiquinia Hill, Robb Hogan, Kilindi Iyi, Steve Jackson, Walter King, Bruce Landers (Seiku), Lynette Love, Ken Mooney, Bobby Peeler, Richard Plowden, David Priam, George Reynolds, and Eugene Woods
Mejishi Martial Arts family
front row: Ilene Abramson, Karen Brown, Su Ferrari, Jaye Spire, Steve Honshu, Victor Abramson
second row: Tih Penfil, Jay Hawkins, Prea Hawkins, Winona Hanshu, Daniel and Mike Mahoney
Mejishi Martial Arts was founded by Sensei Jaye in 1979 as Mejishi Karate Dojo
Photos from Tih Penfil
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| Join theMartial Arts Movement!AWMAI, our community, and our website are here to support you as an instructor, and allow you to offer support to others.
AWMAIBoard of Directors
Executive Director Administrative Director Parnee Poet Certification Director Amelia Jones Events Director Financial Director
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Our Mission:
We provide high-quality education, training, and support, as well as opportunities for networking, advancement, and professional recognition, to women instructors and business owners in the fields of martial arts and self-defense.
Our Vision
We strive to be leaders in the communities we serve; to be partners in helping each other achieve recognition and excellence in our respective pursuits; and to take pride in elevating the performance and reputation of all our members’ schools and classes.
Our Values
These values are at the heart of our organization.
Integrity - We maintain the highest standards of personal and business ethics in all our interactions, continually strengthening relationships through honesty, trustworthiness and reliability.
Respect - We respect the unique contributions of every teacher and student, valuing the diversity of their experiences, ideas and initiatives. We ensure that everyone has the opportunity to learn and contribute in a way that enriches their personal development.
Inclusivity - We welcome all women, including individuals who are transgender, non-binary or self-identify as women and who believe a space reserved for women martial artists is a home.
The Association of Women Martial Arts Instructors welcomes female martial arts instructors, assistant instructors, and aspiring instructors of all martial arts styles hard and soft to become Members. As a Member you will have the opportunity to meet and collaborate with other women who have trail-blazed the path you are now pursuing. Tangible membership benefits include an Association patch for new members, an E-Link for your school to our website plus posting of your upcoming events, E-Newsletter, and unlimited networking possibilities.
