Today we’d like to introduce you to Julian Harrison.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Coach Julian “Jewel” Harrison — Jewel Jiu Jitsu Academy, Fayetteville NC
My journey in Jiu Jitsu started like many others — with a desire to challenge myself and grow. Over the years, that challenge evolved into a lifelong passion for learning, competing, and teaching.
I’ve had the privilege of traveling around the world to study and compete — from Paris to São Paulo, winning gold medals at PANS, Europeans, and the Brasileiro Championships. Each experience deepened my understanding of the art and taught me that success in Jiu Jitsu, like in life, is built on consistency, humility, and perseverance.
When I founded Jewel Jiu Jitsu Academy in Fayetteville, NC, my goal was simple: to create a place where people of all ages could build confidence, discipline, and community through the gentle art. I wanted to offer more than classes — I wanted to build a culture. Today, we have programs for kids, adults, families, homeschoolers, and seniors, all grounded in what we call The Jewel Way — Excellence Through Consistency.
What started as a small group of students has grown into a thriving academy and family. Watching people transform — whether it’s a child gaining confidence or an adult finding new purpose — reminds me why I started in the first place. Jiu Jitsu gave me direction and discipline, and now it’s my mission to give that same gift back to others here in Fayetteville.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road — but that’s part of what makes the journey meaningful.
Building Jewel Jiu Jitsu Academy from the ground up came with plenty of challenges — from managing finances and finding the right space, to balancing training, teaching, and marketing all at once. There were times early on when I was teaching classes, cleaning mats, and running ads all in the same day.
Beyond the business side, there were also personal challenges. Competing while recovering from injuries, pushing through setbacks, and learning how to lead others while still growing myself. But Jiu Jitsu teaches resilience — you get swept, you reset, and you come back stronger.
Every obstacle has shaped both me and the academy. Those tough moments built character, sharpened my focus, and made me even more determined to create something lasting for our students and community here in Fayetteville.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Jewel Jiu Jitsu Academy in Fayetteville, NC, we specialize in building people — not just fighters. Our mission is to help students of all ages develop confidence, discipline, and resilience through the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
We offer programs for kids, adults, families, homeschoolers, and seniors, with an approach we call The Jewel Way — Excellence Through Consistency. Every class, from our “Little Gems” program to our advanced competitors, focuses on strong fundamentals, smart strategy, and respect both on and off the mats.
What sets us apart is our culture and connection. We don’t just teach techniques — we teach teamwork. Our academy is known for having a welcoming, family-oriented environment where beginners train alongside competitors, and everyone pushes each other to be better.
We’re also proud to be part of a global lineage, under Professor Diego Ramalho and Professor Pedro, both world-class black belts who’ve shaped our technical foundation. That balance of world-level instruction and small-town family feel is what defines Jewel Jiu Jitsu.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of how we’ve turned “The Jewel Way” into more than a slogan — it’s a lifestyle. Our students learn that showing up consistently, working hard, and treating others with respect leads to real results on the mats and in life.
For anyone looking to grow physically, mentally, or even professionally, we invite you to experience it firsthand. Come train with us at 5954 Cliffdale Rd, Fayetteville, NC, or visit jewelbjj.com
to book a free trial and see why so many call Jewel Jiu Jitsu their second home.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
One of my favorite childhood memories was the first time I realized how much I loved competing. I remember being a kid, playing sports with friends in the neighborhood, and how everything always turned into a challenge — who could run faster, who could climb higher, who could win the next game. I didn’t realize it at the time, but that spark for competition and growth has stayed with me my whole life.
Another memory that stands out is spending time with family — the laughter, the support, the lessons in discipline and respect that shaped who I am today. Those early experiences taught me the value of teamwork, humility, and persistence — the same principles I try to pass on to every student at Jewel Jiu Jitsu Academy.
Looking back, I can see how those moments planted the seed for everything I do now: leading, teaching, and helping others discover their own strength through Jiu Jitsu.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jeweljj.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeweljiujitsu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565439656963
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JewelJiuJitsu
