#Colombia #Bogota #Gender Equality #Guardian Girls #Koyamada Foundation

Colombia Takes a Bold Step for Women Empowerment

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Republic of Colombia unveils the Guardian Girls Academy, a national program aimed at promoting gender equality and empowering women through martial arts. Collaborating with the Ministry of Sports and the Koyamada International Foundation Colombia, the program is designed to address gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and provide women with the tools to develop self-respect and dignity.

Running from August 22 to October 12, 2025, the academy's implementation is supported by a national budget allocated by the Ministry of Sports, with the Guardian Girls Colombia Committee overseeing its operations. This committee, which includes partnerships with Colombian federations specializing in jiu-jitsu, judo, and aikido, successfully rolled out programs nationwide.

The launch event on August 27, 2025, gathered notable figures in Bogotá, including Patricia Duque Cruz, Colombia's Minister of Sports, Manuel Palacios Blandón, the Deputy Minister, and the Japanese Ambassador to Colombia, Yukihiro Takasugi. The presence of dignitaries highlighted the strong support for this program, celebrating the international partnership between Colombia and Japan.

During the event, the Minister expressed heartfelt sentiments, stating, "Today, we celebrate the launch of the Guardian Girls Academy, empowering women across Colombia. Through this partnership with the Japanese Embassy, we are providing methods to prevent violence, enabling them to live with dignity."

The ambassador added that this initiative serves as a bridge to strengthen the friendship between the two nations, using Japanese martial arts as a way to promote peace and respect.

A Unique Collaboration
This collaboration marks the first instance worldwide where a government ministry has hosted a nationwide initiative focused entirely on women's empowerment through martial arts. The program commenced in major cities: Bogotá, Cali, and Barranquilla, catering to diverse populations and reaching over 250 women. Classes, incorporating ethical teachings of martial arts along with GBV education, provided participants with a comprehensive empowerment experience.

Since its inception, the Guardian Girls Colombia Committee has served as a conduit for engaging multiple stakeholders, including international NGOs, domestic sports federations, and other government entities, thus shaping the program's reach and impact.

International Influence
Founded by Shin Koyamada and Nia Wright in 2019, the international NGO Guardian Girls International (GGI) has emphasized global outreach, collaborating with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and expanding its footprint across more than 27 countries in five continents over the past two years. The GGI's strategic partnerships have been pivotal in advancing women's empowerment initiatives globally.

In Colombia, the groundwork laid prior to this national launch has been extensive. The initial phase saw successful pilot programs, including GGA seminars for women in government organizations and collaborative efforts with local municipalities.

The Guardian Girls Academy exemplifies an innovative model for public-private and international collaboration promoting gender equality and argues strongly for sustainable empowerment through sports.

As the world watches, Colombia sets a precedent, showing how targeted programs like the Guardian Girls Academy can inspire women to stand against violence and foster a vibrant community where gender equality thrives.

In summary, the Guardian Girls Academy not only aims to enhance physical skills and build self-esteem but also serves as a framework for continuous societal change powered by empowering women in every aspect of life.