I am now working with LifeWorks and Triangle Martial Arts. Sensei Parnell Marcano and I are holding classes for LifeWorks youth and staff on Fridays and (starting Jan 2011) Saturdays. We are combining judo and tae kwon do (with a little ninjutsu, care of Sensei Jonathan Retamoza-Davila)
As part of this whole process, I finally had my ranking re-evaluated, and have accepted promotion to fifth-degree black belt. I’m officially “Master Ryka Aoki,” and serve as the International Technical Director for Triangle Judo. I am creating a curriculum where out queer youth can learn judo, even if they feel uncomfortable within traditional judo organizations. It’s neat to finally be acknowledged as a master, but it is a profound responsibility. Judo should be for everyone, and that includes LGBTIQQ family.
Wish me luck!
:)
Ryka
