Martial arts has been a part of my life since I was six years old.

When I was younger, I struggled with severe social anxiety. My parents enrolled me in karate to help me build confidence and learn self-defense. It worked—and I’ve been training ever since.

I began competing as a yellow belt in our state circuit before representing Team USA at my first WKC World Championships in Ireland in 2014. Since then, martial arts has challenged me to grow not only as a competitor, but as a person.

With persistence, discipline, and the support of my teammates and coaches, I’ve accomplished more in this sport than I ever imagined possible.