07/06/2026
🥋 GRADING SUCCESS 🥋
What a day! 👊
I had the privilege of watching so many Empower Academy students step onto the floor, give it their all, and achieve their next belt.
As an instructor, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing the hard work, commitment and determination that has been put in over the past few months come together on grading day.
Every belt earned today represents hours of training, countless repetitions, perseverance through challenges, and the courage to keep showing up and improving.
I am incredibly proud of every single student who graded. Not just because of the belts they achieved, but because of the effort, attitude and resilience they demonstrated along the way.
The standard of kickboxing on display was outstanding, but even more impressive was the respect, support and encouragement shown towards one another throughout the day.
I was also incredibly humbled by the support shown throughout the day by students who aren't actively training at the moment but are still very much part of the Empower Academy whānau.
It was equally inspiring to see students who had already completed their grading stay on to support, encourage and help their peers. Nobody was told to do it—they simply chose to.
That speaks volumes about the culture we are building together.
Empower Academy, you make me incredibly proud. It's not just the kickboxing standards that impress me, it's the respect, kindness, teamwork and support you show one another every step of the way. 👊❤️
Congratulations to everyone who achieved their next belt. Enjoy the moment, celebrate your success, and then get ready...
The journey continues. 💥
Ngā mihi
Tara 👊
