Throughout their stay, the visitors were fully integrated into the activities of JFPSA. They participated in training sessions, community engagements and knowledge-sharing initiatives, contributing their expertise while learning from the local judo environment. Their presence once again highlighted judo’s unique ability to transcend borders and connect people through shared values.
The whole idea of the exchange is based on cultural and sporting collaboration that uses judo as a platform to promote mutual understanding, skill development and youth empowerment. Through training exchanges, workshops and shared community experiences, the project encourages respect, discipline and friendship, while strengthening ties between athletes, coaches and communities.
While many were still enjoying the festive break, there was no pause at JFPSA. As early as 2nd January, the team was back on the tatami, setting the tone for a dynamic and purposeful beginning to the year. This early return reflected the organisation’s strong commitment to creating opportunities and maintaining momentum, even during traditionally quieter periods.
Cultural Exchange Beyond the Tatami
The exchange extended well beyond training. The visiting coaches embraced South Africa’s cultural diversity, enjoying a wide range of cuisines, including South African, Zimbabwean and Ethiopian dishes, as well as Japanese food and locally prepared Korean meals.
They also experienced the country’s vibrant social and cultural landscape by interacting with different communities, visiting local judo clubs and enjoying recreational activities in the surrounding area, such as lakes, parks and natural reserves. These moments of shared experience strengthened personal connections and reinforced the idea that judo is not only a sport, but a way of building understanding.
An Intensive Training Camp
As part of the exchange programme, JFPSA hosted an intensive seven-day training camp from 5th to 11th January 2026. Daily three-hour sessions attracted a remarkable number of judoka, many of whom travelled from across the province to take part in this unique international experience. The level of participation and enthusiasm demonstrated a strong appetite for learning, growth and international exposure among local athletes. On average, around 50 judoka trained each day, with a peak of 89 participants recorded during the Thursday session at Kazuno Dojo.
Lasting Impact
Beyond technical development, the camp provided a powerful platform for cross-cultural learning and motivation. Feedback from participants was inspiring, highlighting the warmth of the community and the unifying power of judo across cultures and continents.
The training sessions brought together a truly diverse group of judoka, with participants from South Africa, Zimbabwe, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Congo, Malawi, Ethiopia, Somalia, Italy, Pakistan, as well as Korea and Japan.
This strong start to the year reaffirmed Judo for Peace South Africa’s role as a hub for excellence, collaboration and global connection. It demonstrated once again that for Judo for Peace, the work of building people and communities through judo never truly rests.