Brighton's Inclusive Martial Arts Club Wins Community Award

Nam Yang martial arts club recognized for fostering belonging and well-being for diverse participants.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 1:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Brighton-based Nam Yang martial arts club recently received a Parent Carers' Council award for its inclusive community support. The club actively welcomes individuals of all ages, abilities, backgrounds, and identities, creating a safe and respectful training environment. Beyond just physical skills, Nam Yang focuses on holistic development, using martial arts as a vehicle for personal growth and social integration.

Why it matters

This award highlights a growing trend of 'martial arts for all,' where clubs are dismantling traditional barriers and creating spaces for people with disabilities, refugees, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those from low-income households to train alongside national champions. These inclusive programs are recognized as vital community resources, offering not just physical training but also emotional support and social connection.

The details

Nam Yang co-founder Sam Byford-Winter emphasizes that the club's goal extends beyond just teaching physical skills. 'If all we teach people at the end of the day is to kick and punch, then I think we've failed them a little bit,' he stated. This philosophy underscores Nam Yang's shift towards holistic development, where martial arts serve as a vehicle for personal growth and social integration.

  • Nam Yang martial arts club recently received a Parent Carers' Council award.
  • The club has been recognized as the UK's first martial arts 'Club of Sanctuary,' supporting refugees and asylum seekers.

The players

Nam Yang

A Brighton-based martial arts club recognized for its inclusive community support and holistic approach to training.

Sam Byford-Winter

The co-founder of Nam Yang martial arts club, who emphasizes the importance of fostering personal growth and social integration beyond just physical skills.

Anita

A parent whose son Josh attends Nam Yang, and who shared how the club 'saved our lives' during the pandemic by providing a crucial sense of belonging and community.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“If all we teach people at the end of the day is to kick and punch, then I think we've failed them a little bit.”

— Sam Byford-Winter, Co-founder, Nam Yang

“Nam Yang saved our lives during the pandemic.”

— Anita, Parent of Nam Yang student

What’s next

Nam Yang plans to continue expanding its adaptive programs and financial assistance to make martial arts training more accessible to a wider range of individuals. The club also aims to deepen its partnerships with local charities and healthcare providers to further integrate martial arts into therapeutic programs.

The takeaway

The success of inclusive martial arts clubs like Nam Yang highlights a growing trend of using physical training as a means to foster community, personal growth, and social integration. This model is gaining traction as more clubs recognize the vital role they can play in supporting vulnerable populations and promoting mental wellness.