The oldest member is 57 years old. Shinkyokushinkai is a non-profit organisation and struggles with facilities and equipment. They use a schoolyard to train. Mayekani told OFM News that karate helps young kids abstain from drugs, gangsterism and other crime-related activities.

He explained that during practice sessions, children are given advice about life, daily issues that affect them, and how to remain disciplined and have respect for others. Although finances are their major problem, they have managed to compete in countries such as Russia, Zimbabwe, and Japan.

Mayekani further stated that the North West Department of Sports has assisted them twice to travel to Japan. One of their best fighters, Lucas Mshweshwe, has been invited by the world karate organisation president, Kenji Midori, who is a Japanese martial artist, to compete at the 33rd All Kyushu tournament set to take place in Japan on 25 August 2019.

OFM News/Joba Matsheng