Today we’d like to introduce you to Khalil.
Hi Khalil, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began training Brazillian Jiu Jitsu in 2001 during a difficult time in our country . After 9/11, many Muslims-including people in my own community-were being wrongfully targeted and attacked. I wanted to learn how to protect myself and stand confidently in a world that suddenly felt unstable.
From 2001 to 2004, I trained at a mixed martial arts school, and over time I gained both skills and the confidence to defend myself if needed. Those early years planted the seed for my passion for martial arts.
In 2015, my journey took a new turn. My sons and friends began showing interest in BJJ, and that pulled me back into training full-time. As I started assisting and teaching clases again, I realized something important: I wasn’t just passionate about training-I had a talent for teaching. I could explain techniques clearly to kids, teens, and adults, and I enjoyed seeing students grow, gain confidence, and discover their own potential.
After years of dedication, I earned my black belt in 2022. Reaching that milestone made me reflect on everything martial arts had given me-discipline, protection, confidence, and community. It felt like the right time to give back in a bigger way.
That is when the idea of opening my own academy became real.
Today Tawheed Jiu Jitsu Academy is a space built from my personal journey-a place where students of all ages can learn practical self-defense, build character, and grow mentally, emotionally, and physically. My goal is to create an enviorment where everyone fees supported, respected, and empowered as my sons take this to the next level.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Opening my own academy has come with its share of challenges. From day one, I realized that running a school is much more than teaching technique-it requires patience, consistency, and a deep belief in the vision.
Some challenges come from maintaining student attention and helping kids stay focused enough to truly grow. Others came from the business side: advertising, getting the word out, and building a community one family at a time. At times, parents don’t immediately see the long tern vision I have for their children- confidence, discipline, and structure that BJJ can build over months and years, not just days.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Tawheed Jiu Jitsu Academy?
Tahweed Jiu Jitsu Academy is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school built on the principles of self-defense, confidence, and personal growth. We specialize in real-world self-defense for both kids and adults, teaching practical sills that can protect, empower, and build character.
What sets Tahweed Jiu Jitsu Academy apart from other schools is our strctured curriculum. We don’t just teach random techniques -we follow a step-step-by-step learning system designed to develop confidence, discipline, and mastery at every age level. Our students know what they’re learning, why they’re learning it, and how each technique applies in real situations.
We go into local school systems and teach students about bullying prevention, awareness, and how Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can help build confidence, self-control, and resilience.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me as a man is building confidence in the youth, I work with and supporting their growth. Helping kids develop belief in themselves, watching their progress, and seeing them overcome challenges means more to me than anything else. Guilding them through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and life lessons gives me purpose, and knowing I can play a role in shaping their confidence and character is what motivates me every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tawheedjiujitsu.com
- Instagram: tawheed_jiujitsu
- Facebook: Tawheed Jiu Jitsu
