Youth development through kung fu
THREE-time gold medallist and Legends of Kung Fu World Champion Muhammad MJ Li Chafeker is to embark on a national tour focusing on youth development through kung fu and Tai Chi wellness workshops .
He has previously hosted workshops in schools and youth centres in the Western Cape.
The tour will see him visit Johannesburg, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth and Durban.
It is the first of its kind and follows a successful 17-day trip to China.
Chafeker has travelled to China several times over the past 20 years.
He trained there, became a Legends World Champion and conducted research over the same period.
He will give talks on the rich history of the Chinese Hui Muslims and the history of Islam in China, which dates back to 1624.
The talks will include the important contributions the Chinese Hui Muslims have made to martial arts, as well as their unique, softer style of kung fu, known as Tai Chi .
Chafeker will conduct public kung fu displays alongside his public talks.
Speaking on the important lessons to be gained from kung fu, he said: “Kung fu inspired me to become the best version of myself”.
Coming from humble beginnings on the Cape Flats, he said kung fu gave him a future away from crime and gangsterism.
He believes that with the current problems that the country is facing, kung fu can help the youth become true champions and live up to their true potential.
He said the practice of kung fu keeps the youth motivated and inspired because it opens up a wider perspective.
On his tour, he wants to “show the youth that there are other options available to them in these socially difficult times”.
He said he has started consulting with partners and sponsors, who will endorse the tour.
Schools and youth centres have already indicated their interest.
To book your city, town, school, mosque or youth centre to become part of this national tour, e-mail: mjlimanagement@ yahoo.com or mjlikungfu@ gmail.com or call/WhatsApp 081 711 1211/ 082 454 3027.