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Rojaskenpo1, Redondo Beach, CA (2026)

08/17/2026

A memorable moment in my martial arts journey. 🇵🇪🇺🇸🥋

In May 2013, I had the great honor of being invited to Club Internacional Arequipa in Peru as a three-time World Karate Champion to share and demonstrate Kenpo Karate. During that special visit, I also had the privilege of joining Valentina “Bullet” Shevchenko and her sister Antonina, who presented an exhibition of Muay Thai.

At the time, Valentina was already an accomplished world champion in Muay Thai. It has been remarkable to watch her journey since then as she went on to become one of the greatest female mixed martial artists of all time and a two-time UFC Women’s Flyweight Champion. Today, she remains the reigning UFC Women’s Flyweight Champion and is ranked #1 in the UFC women’s pound-for-pound rankings. 🏆🥊 (UFC⁠)

Looking back at these photographs and the article published about our visit brings back wonderful memories. We were both presented with special recognitions by Club Internacional Arequipa for our accomplishments and contributions to martial arts.

As a Peruvian-American martial artist, it was especially meaningful for me to return to Peru and represent both my Peruvian heritage 🇵🇪 and the United States 🇺🇸 while sharing the martial arts that have been such an important part of my life.

My congratulations and continued respect to Valentina Shevchenko for everything she has accomplished on the world stage. From those days demonstrating our respective martial arts in Arequipa to her extraordinary success in the UFC, her discipline, longevity and championship spirit are truly inspiring.

Two martial artists. Two journeys. One shared passion for the martial arts — and a special memory from Arequipa, Peru. 🇵🇪🥋🥊🏆

— Hugo M. Rojas II
Three-Time World Karate Champion
Founder, California Youth Karate Club, Inc.

05/01/2026

Honored and grateful to reflect on this special moment in my journey 🙏

On August 12, 1997, I was deeply humbled to receive a Certificate of Recognition from the Mayor and City Council of Hermosa Beach. This recognition followed my achievement of placing first in the self-defense division at the USA International Martial Arts World Championships in Las Vegas.

More than the competition, this acknowledgment meant so much because it highlighted something I’ve always believed in—dedication to the art of martial arts and commitment to guiding and mentoring youth in our community.

We (California Youth Karate Club) were also proud presenters of the California Dragon Awards Benefit in Hermosa Beach, joined by Mayor J.R. Revinczky. This incredible event honored over 50 celebrities and martial arts icons, including Billy Zabka (“Johnny Lawrence” in Cobra Kai), Don “The Dragon” Wilson, Eric Lee, Gerald Okamura, Chris Casamassa, Erik Betts, Victor Webster, Lilly Melgar, Art Camacho, and many more.

Martial arts has never just been about winning titles. It’s about discipline, respect, and giving back. Being recognized not only as a competitor, but as a mentor to the youth of Hermosa Beach, remains one of the proudest moments of my life.

Thank you to the City of Hermosa Beach for this honor—and to all the students and families who have been part of this journey over the years. The mission continues 💪🥋

02/11/2026

California Youth Karate Club, Inc. Kicks Off the New Year with Act of Kindness from Celebrity Partner Aaron Cohen

California Youth Karate Club, Inc. proudly kicks off the new year alongside our celebrity partner and longtime supporter, Aaron Cohen, whose generosity is already making a meaningful impact. Cohen recently donated thousands of dollars’ worth of martial arts training equipment, now actively in use within our after-school programs across multiple schools in the Hawthorne School District—directly benefiting the youth we serve.

Cohen began his Hollywood career as a technical advisor on major motion pictures, including Steven Soderbergh’s Haywire, and as a tactical trainer for A-list actors such as Keanu Reeves for the globally successful John Wick franchise. He later transitioned into acting, appearing in numerous film and television projects, including 211 opposite Nicolas Cage, Rambo 5: Last Blood with Sylvester Stallone, a recurring role on Netflix’s Luis Miguel, and a supporting role opposite Antonio Banderas in the 2022 crime thriller The Enforcer.

Beyond entertainment, Aaron Cohen is an Israeli-trained career special operations and intelligence veteran, with over two decades of counterterrorism experience. He began his service in Israel’s elite undercover mista’aravim (“Arabist”) units, highly specialized counterterrorism teams trained to assimilate into hostile environments while conducting high-risk arrests, intelligence operations, and counterterror missions using disguise and surprise as primary tactics.

Cohen is also the host of The Aaron Cohen Show, a weekly podcast delivering in-depth discussions on Israeli special operations, counterterrorism, global security, and pro-law-enforcement topics, featuring expert interviews and firsthand insights. He is among the most recognized on-camera law enforcement and counterterrorism analysts, with hundreds of appearances across major news networks, including CNN and Fox News Channel, and was a recurring guest with Larry King for over a decade.

Currently, Cohen serves as a Lieutenant (Reserve) with a U.S. Sheriff’s Department, where he has volunteered for over 15 years. He facilitates advanced tactical training for patrol officers, school resource officers, and SWAT teams, and remains an active SWAT team member, assisting in high-risk operations. Internationally, he has trained hundreds of police agencies and military units in Israeli counterterrorism methodologies.

Cohen is also the author of the bestselling memoir Brotherhood of Warriors: Behind Enemy Lines with a Commando in One of the World’s Most Elite Counter-Terrorist Units, published by HarperCollins and translated into eight languages.

A dedicated martial artist, Aaron Cohen is a Kenpo Karate Black Belt and a valued member of our extended Kenpo family. He was introduced to us by fellow Kenpo Black Belt Master Dr. Joey Cadena of Texas, strengthening a bond rooted in discipline, service, and community.

California Youth Karate Club, Inc. is honored to partner with Aaron Cohen—whose commitment to youth development, public service, and martial arts excellence continues to inspire and uplift the next generation.

12/29/2025

On Saturday, December 20th, California Youth Karate Club, Inc. hosted “Kick For a Cause” at the Masonic Lodge in Redondo Beach, celebrating our students who earned their next rank in Kenpo Karate. Watching them grow in skill, discipline, confidence, and character fills me with pride.

We were honored to receive special recognition on behalf of Congresswoman Maxine Waters, joined by community leaders from the California State Board of Equalization, local school districts, and Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health.

For over 31 years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching boys and girls ages 4–17 from every walk of life—over 1,000 children served. If you’re in a wheelchair, have ADHD, Autism, or face any challenge, you’re always welcome here. No one sits on the bench—you’re always on our team.

Families who cannot afford karate receive FREE lessons. What started in my garage is now 25 sites strong, partnering with schools, YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, VFW, American Legion, and Sheriff’s Youth Activities League.

“Building stronger kids—physically, mentally, and in the community—one belt at a time.”

11/03/2025

Thank you to City of Hawthorne Mayor Alex Vargas, Mayor Pro Tem Alex Monteiro, Councilmember Angie R. English, Councilmember Katrina Manning, and Councilmember Faye Johnson.

I am honored by your kind recognition during Hispanic Heritage Month. Your support and acknowledgment mean a great deal, not only to me but to the entire community that values culture, unity, and service. Thank you for celebrating our heritage and for your continued dedication to the people of Hawthorne.

07/20/2025

I had the privilege and opportunity to help expand access to drinking water fountains across the Centinela Valley Union High School District. These new fountains were strategically placed in high-traffic areas, including near our sports complexes and gymnasiums, to ensure students have easier access to clean, safe drinking water.

Providing clean, lead-free water and encouraging students to avoid sugary beverages is a vital step toward promoting better health and overall well-being. It’s important to remain vigilant about the quality of our water sources—fountains that are not regularly inspected can contain lead and other harmful contaminants that pose serious health risks.

A heartfelt thank you to our Director of Facilities and Maintenance, Eric Mirabal, and his dedicated team for making this initiative possible.

06/04/2025

“Kenpo en Perú” 🇵🇪Master Hugo M. Rojas II

As a lifelong martial artist, school board member, and proud Peruvian-American—born in Lima and raised in California—I’ve always felt a deep calling to give back, especially to communities where children can benefit from the life-changing values of martial arts.

In 1994, I founded the California Youth karate club, Inc. with one mission in mind: to make martial arts accessible to all children, regardless of background or ability.

On a recent trip to Surco, Peru, I had the incredible honor of teaching Kenpo Karate to 60 dedicated students at a school called Kenpo Perú, led by the passionate and talented Sensei Kemberly Guevara.

Karate is far more than self-defense—it’s a tool for building confidence, discipline, and inclusion. Unlike many traditional sports, martial arts create space for every child—including those with special needs. There’s no bench in karate. Every child participates. Every child grows. Every child belongs.

I’m deeply grateful for this unforgettable experience and look forward to returning to Peru soon—for the people, the purpose, and the power of Kenpo.

Today, California Youth Karate Club, Inc. (facebook.com/cykc94) and its certified Black Belt Instructors are making a lasting impact—teaching hundreds of children across several school districts in Los Angeles County.

We invite you to join our mission: become a sponsor, partner, or bring CYKC to your school or organization.
For more information, please call (310) 912-4207 or email: [email protected]
www.instagram.com/rojaskenpo1

“Kenpo en Perú” 🇵🇪Maestro Hugo M. Rojas II

Como artista marcial de toda la vida, miembro de la junta escolar y orgulloso peruano-estadounidense—nacido en Lima y criado en California—siempre he sentido un profundo llamado a retribuir, especialmente en comunidades donde los niños pueden beneficiarse de la experiencia transformadora de las artes marciales.

En 1994, fundé California Youth Karate Club, Inc. con una sola misión: hacer que las artes marciales sean accesibles para todos los niños, sin importar su origen o habilidad.

En un reciente viaje a Surco, Perú, tuve el privilegio de enseñar Kenpo Karate a 60 estudiantes increíbles en una escuela llamada Kenpo Perú, dirigida por la talentosa y dedicada Sensei Kemberly Guevara.

El karate es mucho más que defensa personal—es una herramienta que fomenta la confianza, la disciplina y la inclusión. A diferencia de muchos deportes tradicionales, las artes marciales ofrecen un espacio para todos los niños, incluidos aquellos con necesidades especiales. En el karate, no hay banca. Todos los niños participan. Todos crecen. Todos pertenecen.

Estoy profundamente agradecido por esta experiencia inolvidable y espero volver pronto al Perú—por su gente, su propósito y el poder del Kenpo.

Hoy en día, California Youth Karate Club, Inc. (facebook.com/cykc94) y sus instructores certificados de Cinturón Negro están dejando una huella positiva, enseñando a cientos de niños en varios distritos escolares del Condado de Los Ángeles.

Te invitamos a unirte a nuestra misión: conviértete en patrocinador, socio o incorpora a CYKC en tu escuela o institución.
Para más información, por favor llama al (310) 912-4207 o escribe a: [email protected]
www.instagram.com/rojaskenpo1

04/16/2025

FLASHBACK POSTER – A Legacy of Strength and Discipline. Originally displayed at the entrance of Spectrum Gym (now Bay Club)

This board stood as a symbol of dedication and transformation—where martial arts became more than just physical training. It was here that I had the honor of teaching over a dozen members, helping them unlock not only their strength but their inner potential.

Our training goes beyond technique.
Through the disciplines of Kenpo Karate, Western Boxing, and Muay Thai Kickboxing, students also develop:
• Self-discipline
• Awareness & Focus
• Flexibility & Balance
• Breathing & Meditation
• Strength, Speed & Fluidity
• Coordination & Confidence

Over the years, lifelong friendships were built, sweat was shared, and spirits were elevated.

To all students, past and present—keep training. Be your best. Be unstoppable.

Rojaskenpo1

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