Women’s Self Defence

Women's Self Defence

A free, fun supportive workshop for women (16+) to learn and practice mental, verbal and physical techniques

The teaching is based on research about what works against a bigger, stronger attacker. Rather than a list of do’s and don’ts, this course will give you more options, skills and confidence to assert your boundaries and stay safe in a range of situations relevant to women and gender minorities’ lives, including harassment from strangers in public, people we know and in our relationships. It will also give you more ideas for where to find support and how to support others.

All women and non-binary peoples of all abilities and fitness levels warmly welcome.

Enrolments for our final course of the year – Migrant Women’s Course on Sunday 3 December are open now.

Migrant	Sunday 3 December 2023
Time	9:30am – 4:30pm
Location	4 Warnock St, Grey Lynn
Cost	Free

Enrol now

Julie Poirier

Julie has been trained and accredited by Kia Haumaru (formerly known as the Women’s Self-Defence Network – Wāhine Toa), a national feminist network of self-defence teachers. She also has a 4th degree black belt in Shotokan karate. Her mahi is done in schools and with community groups across Tāmaki Makaurau, teaching women, girls and diverse gender students an empowerment style of self defence.

Feedback from previous participants:

“I really liked the balance between physical practice & meaningful rich discussions. The legal aspect was helpful, and also looking at what is “healthy, unhealthy & abusive” behaviour. The teacher, Julie was fantastic and I feel so empowered. Thank you!”

“Thank you for demonstrating how a womens voice or stance can put an attacker off. This gave me more cofidence to use my own power to keep myself safe.”

“Julie was so awesome and inspiring. I walked in feeling small, old, weak and helpless. When I walked out, I held my head high with more confidence than I could imagine. She really impowered me. No more being a victim – I’m 64 and have never felt safer than I did after Julie showed me how.”