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WELCOME!

We are a safe, inclusive, women-led organization for women, transmen, nonbinary people, and their allies that affirms each person’s warrior spirit and actively works for a world in which each of us is empowered, free from oppression, and whole.

When I joined the NWMAF I expected to find a place where I could learn and grow and meet the standards for a self-defense instructor. But it turned out to be so much more than that. I found inspiration, passion, purpose, compassion, empowerment, and, after attending only one conference, more growth, support, and resources than I ever expected.

–Danielle Cenotti

I have spent my life training in martial arts and it wasn’t until I found NWMAF that I felt the sense of community I had been needing for so long. These women are an inspiration to us who strive to create a better world for the next generation. Thank you for all you do for women in the arts.

–Elicia Ybarra

I have always loved practicing karate in a traditional mixed dojo. However, the NWMAF gave me opportunities my home dojo could not: colleagues and mentors whose life experiences reflected my own and the freedom to try on different ways of being a Martial Artist without inter-art and inter-style spats getting in the way.

–Jill Baker Shames

Annual Conference

The NWMAF’s signature event is a multi-style training conference, held each summer, that features opportunities to learn from veteran martial artists from across the country and around the world, as well as a professional Empowerment Self-Defense instruction track.

Participants can choose from a variety of classes throughout the four-day event. Each day brings many sessions and several options: “hard style” classes, “soft style” classes, mat arts, self-defense techniques and technology, healing arts, and weapons practice. Expert trainers tailor their teaching for a wide range of students—from beginners to experts. Attendees come from all over the United States, Canada, and beyond. Join us this summer!

Learn more about the 2023 Synergy Conference

Martial Arts

We cherish martial arts as a path of self-discovery and transformation and as a means of transforming ourselves and the world in which we live. We find strength in one another’s challenges and promote an awareness and appreciation of our differences.

Some of us have been training over many decades, others just a few months. Whatever your art, experience, or skill level, come and be a part of our amazing community!

See our award-winning martial artists

Empowerment Self-Defense

The NWMAF is the leader in Empowerment Self-Defense and has formed an extensive network of skilled instructors in the US and Canada and across the world. We offer ongoing professional development and credentials to self-defense instructors. From cutting-edge research to best practices in classroom management, from non-profit programming to running an effective business, we work to bring this critical tool of violence prevention to the world.

Learn more about Empowerment Self-Defense

person in a wheelchair practicing setting a boundary with instructor
Photo Credit: Defend Yourself

Not a member yet?

Join NWMAF to become part of a community that celebrates the strength in each of us and spreads empowerment wherever we go. You’ll save a few dollars on the Annual Conference, too!