With more than 35 years in martial arts and nearly four decades as a licensed doctor of physical therapist, Professor Sonya Richardson brings a rare blend of love for the Art, mindful biomechanics, and deeply grounded teaching to every movement space. She holds an 8th degree black belt in Kajukenbo, the Gaylord Method, under Grandmaster Barbara Bones, and was promoted to 3rd degree by her original instructor, the late Professor Coleen Gragen. She holds a 5th degree black belt in American Kenpo Karate under Professor Gloria Boldizar. She began serving Hand to Hand Kajukenbo Self Defense Center in the role of Co-Head Instructor in 2006 alongside Sigung Jen Resnick and transitioned to Head Instructor a few years later. Known for her dynamic, body-aware approach, Professor creates training experiences that are challenging, fluid, and accessible to practitioners across styles, ranks, and abilities.

Professor Sonya has earned medals in national and international competitions in forms, weapons, sparring, and self-defense, and has taught a wide range of classes at major martial arts gatherings including the National Women’s Martial Arts Federation, the Pacific Association of Women Martial Artists, and the Association of Women Martial Arts Instructors. A recipient of the 2011 Martial Artist of the Year Award from PAWMA and an honoree of Flyaway Productions’ “10 Women Campaign,” Professor Richardson’s teaching is rooted in the belief that the practice of martial arts in community cultivates resilience, connection, joy, and meaningful personal transformation that benefits our world at large.