DISCOVER TRIBE MARTIAL ARTS FOUNDATION
TRIBE Martial Arts Foundation was established in 2019, as a response to the growing need for accessible self-defence training and personal empowerment in previously disadvantaged and underserved communities. Tribe Martial Arts Foundation is dedicated to empowering vulnerable communities in South Africa through martial arts, self-defence training, and mentorship.
TRIBE has successfully implemented its programmes to beneficiaries living in communities including Johannesburg and Alexandra, providing young people from high-risk and under-resourced communities with access to structured self-defence training, martial arts training, personal development, and leadership opportunities.
Through a holistic approach that combines self-defence education, GBV prevention and response programmes, and skills development, the TRIBE Martial Arts Foundation creates measurable social impact strengthening communities and transforming lives.
TRIBE addresses the root causes of GBV, and systemic inequality by equipping participants especially women, girls, and young people with practical self-defence skills, confidence-building tools and income-generating opportunities.
At the core of our work is QuanWessels Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Martial Arts Academy, led by respected second-degree black belts Professor Norman “Chef” Wessels and Professor Richard Quan. Their combined expertise in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), and high-level professional coaching provides the foundation for TRIBE’s structured self-defence and skills development programmes.
VISION
Our vision is to enable young children, youth and women to participate in accessible, high-quality self-defence, sports, and life skills training that nurtures their physical, emotional, and social well-being, while opening pathways to employment and community enterprise development.
MISSION
Our mission is to foster a supportive community that promotes personal growth, mental well-being, equipping individuals with the tools they need to overcome adversity and thrive in all areas of their lives.
VALUES
TRIBE Martial Arts Foundation, with our training partners, is driven by the core values of Honour, Strength, Courage, and Mastery. We lead with integrity and respect, cultivate physical and emotional resilience, and create safe spaces that break cycles of violence. Through dedicated coaching and lifelong learning, we inspire students to grow into confident leaders, protectors, and positive role models within their communities. Together we deliver more than martial arts we provide meaningful transformation, empowerment, and generational impact.
OUR TEAM
At TRIBE Martial Arts Foundation, our team is more than instructors and coordinators, we are mentors, changemakers, and community builders. Each member of our team brings a unique blend of lived experience, technical expertise, and deep commitment to social change.
Beyond the mat, our coordinators, youth mentors, and programme leaders work closely with participants to provide academic support, emotional guidance, and pathways to income generation. Together we’re equipping future leaders, restoring confidence, and building a stronger, safer South Africa.