Overcoming adversity

In 2017, I made the life-changing decision to join the Al-Aqsa Karate Academy. I still recall the awe I felt when I watched black belt students train on my first day. Witnessing their strength and power inspired me to work hard and begin my journey. Though the road was tough, I persisted. I faced setbacks, like missing the Yellow belt exam due to surgery, and having to take the test alone instead of with my friends. But I pushed through and earned my belt, determined to achieve more.

However, in July 2019, tragedy struck. My grandmother passed away just three days before my black belt exam. I was devastated, and my heart felt broken. But in the midst of my despair, I had a dream of my grandmother standing before me, dressed in white. She urged me to never stop pursuing my dreams and to stand up and build myself. Her words resonated with me, and I woke up the next day more determined than ever before. I trained over six hours a day and eventually earned my Jordanian black belt. A few months later, I moved to Australia with hopes of representing the country in the World Championships.

I am proud to share that I have received my International Black Belt (1 Dan) with awards from the Canterbury-Bankstown Council and was named the Star Champion of NSW 2023. I am grateful for all the support I have received throughout my journey and am excited to continue pursuing my dreams. Karate has taught me that perseverance and hard work can lead to incredible achievements, even in the face of adversity.

Sadeer Al-Zuhairi

Goolagong House Vice Captian