At the Kerus Care Center in Soshanguve, South Africa, a unique and transformative program is shaping more than strong bodies—it’s shaping strong hearts.
Beyond our mission to nurture character and provide care for vulnerable children, our Tae Kwon Do program has become a powerful way for young lives to discover courage, discipline, and confidence.
Each week, the children gather with bright eyes and eager spirits—ready to stretch, punch, kick, and laugh together. Through every move, they’re learning far more than martial arts. They’re learning focus, respect, and perseverance.
For many of these children, who have endured loss and trauma, Tae Kwon Do offers something deeply healing. It’s a safe place to channel energy, process emotions, and reconnect their minds and bodies in an atmosphere of encouragement and joy.
The program, launched in 2022, is led by the remarkable Mr. Obakeng Skhosana, a 4th Dan Black Belt and committee member of ML Taekwondo under Grand Master Park. Introduced to Kerus through our South African Board Member, Charlene Mostert, Mr. Skhosana brings both skill and heart to every session.
He often shares,
“Training Taekwondo to kids is an incredibly rewarding experience that blends discipline, fun, and personal development. It’s less about creating tiny fighters and more about building better human beings.”
And when a child beams with pride after earning their first belt, he smiles and says,
“That moment—that joy—is why I do it.”
The program was generously jump-started by Grand Master Park and his wife, who donated the first training uniforms three years ago. Each child received one for weekly practice and another for official belt-grading tests.
Now, as the children grow, we’re working to provide new uniforms—symbols of their progress and perseverance.
The transformation we’ve witnessed is inspiring. Twice a week—every Tuesday and Thursday—the Tae Kwon Do students train with dedication, often adding extra sessions during school holidays to prepare for tournaments.
Among them are four extraordinary orphans—Kganya, Onkarabetse, Keabetswe, and Tshepo—who have trained so faithfully that they’re now preparing to test for their Black Belts at the University of Pretoria.
Their achievement represents far more than physical skill. It’s a triumph of spirit—a testament to their perseverance, courage, and the hope that continues to rise within them.
Their excitement is contagious as they prepare for a local competition later this month, proudly demonstrating their growing strength, focus, and self-belief.
The team will travel to Rustenburg for a tournament on October 25th, two hours northwest of Johannesburg—a thrilling milestone for our young athletes.
Our children taking home medals for their success at recent competitions!
Every kick, every smile, every victory is made possible because of you—our Kerus family of friends and supporters.
Your prayers and generosity create safe spaces where children can heal, grow, and dream again. Through your faithfulness, they are learning that they are seen, valued, and capable of great things.
We are deeply grateful to God for His provision and for each of you who walk alongside us. Together, we’re helping these precious children build courage, character, and confidence—one kick at a time.