When I took my [previous self-defense] class, I learned how to fend off physical attacks, but it took me much, much longer to learn how to develop and maintain healthy relationships. I spent too many years in an abusive relationship . . . Now I’m a lot more careful about defending myself – which is why your class was so important to me.

This class showed me that . . . I have every right to defend myself and take care of myself the best way I know how. My first responsibility is to myself.

Bothering leads to dangerous things and situations if we aren’t careful. We want to try to stop the situation before it gets really dangerous! There are bullies that can start at just being annoying by talking and saying those mean things but it can turn into something very dangerous if you are not careful. So the key is to be very smart and think before you act. – from the book by our students at Jump Start Girls/Adelante Nias

The teachers are nonjudgmental: they are not going to tell you that what you are doing is wrong.

What an empowering, enlightening class! You gave me a wonderfully empowering gift – the ability to speak! You helped take away some of the fear that I had by having me realize that I have some power within.

I feel more confident and like I can get through anything.

I feel more confident, yet not complacent. I am learning to incorporate no into my everyday life.