Empowering women through karate
Timmy Singh, a 7th Dan black belt holder
Image: Leon Lestrade
Timmy Singh, a 7th Dan black belt holder in karate, is passionate about self-defence and safety and security.
Singh, from Glenwood, started karate as a child and now uses it as a grounding to teach and empower other women and young children.
"Karate can assist people in need, especially in domestic violence. When I started karate I was the only woman, most of the time, in a club full of men. But that has changed now and more women and young girls are learning karate.
"I encourage more to take up karate. They can use it in self defence, to keep fit, get to make a good circle of friends, have discipline and a sense of calm and stability," she said.
Elevate Her
Image: File
Singh founded a non-governmental organisation about 35 years ago called Action Against Abuse South Africa.
The aim of the organisation is to assist survivors of domestic violence, rape, date rape, sexual harassment, hijackings, bullying, among others.
"Through the organisation and with the help of volunteers we have been able to empower people with safety and self defense techniques and counselling.
"We work in various communities and informal areas, not just teaching karate, but all round development," said Singh.