top of page

WHO WE ARE

Violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread and devastating human rights violations in the world. A third of all women and girls experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime.

 

Protecting yourself starts with knowledge. Learning to identify and avoid potential threats—and knowing how to defend yourself when necessary—can give you the confidence to feel safer in your everyday life.

WHY CHOOSE WOMEN'S SELF-DEFENCE UK?

Our workshops and courses are tailored to tackle the real-life threats we face today, and equip you with the tools to feel prepared and empowered.

You’ll learn practical safety strategies to integrate into your daily routine and travel plans, gain hands-on experience in physical defence techniques, and have the opportunity to earn a certification through our courses.

MEET JOANNA

Joanna founded Women's Self-Defence UK with a mission to empower women across the UK by providing practical tools and strategies.

With over 25 years of experience in martial arts as a coach, competitor, and World Champion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Joanna combines her expertise with insights gained from years working in the security sector. Understanding the unique challenges faced by vulnerable individuals, she has designed courses that equip participants with the knowledge, awareness, and skills needed to tackle threatening situations with more confidence and clarity.

Over the past decade, Joanna has collaborated with schools, charities, universities, and corporate organizations to promote personal safety and teach effective self-defence strategies.

Joanna BJJ Profile no background.png
Writing an application
Corporate workshops

Workshops for General Public

Twice a year (every March and September) we organise women-only Self-Defence Workshops open to the public. These workshops provide a comprehensive approach to women's defence, covering both  stand-up and ground techniques. They run over a weekend, with a total of 6 hours of training practice.  

 

Next available date: 14-15 March 2026. 

Workshops for Organisations 

Screenshot 2026-01-26 at 09.50.38.png

Celebrate International Women's Day this coming March

To celebrate the International Women's Day (coming March 8th)  - give your female staff the confidence and skills to feel safe, empowered, and in control—on and off the job.

 

Joanna’s dynamic corporate workshops equip women with practical personal safety strategies, sharp intuition-building tools, and easy-to-learn self-defence techniques they can use instantly in real-world situations.

These workshops energise teams, boost morale, and demonstrate your organisation’s commitment to protecting and empowering the women who drive your success. This is more than training—it’s an investment in confidence, resilience, and workplace wellbeing.

Our Clients

Testimonial

Our student feedback speaks volumes about their positive experiences with us, reaffirming our commitment to providing exceptional education and support.

Explore

Check out Joanna's new book on women's safety available on all major book stores!
 

She Fights Back
Daily Mail
Women's Running
Marie Claire
Psychologies
Newsletter

Sign up for our newsletter to receive monthly deals and special offers!

Thanks for subscribing!

About Us

Protecting yourself starts with knowledge. Learning to identify and avoid potential threats—and knowing how to defend yourself when necessary—can give you the confidence to feel safer in your everyday life.

Contact Info

London, United Kingdom

Follow Us

  • Women's Self-Defense UK
  • Women's Self-Defense Facebook
  • Women's Self-Defense LinkedIn
  • Martial arts and wellness

© 2026 by Women's Self-Defence UK 

bottom of page