Contact us at +27 83 700 3677
Contact us at +27 83 700 3677
About
About NWS Neko Bellville
Founded by Sensei Brendon Abrahams in February 2017, under the guidance of Senior Instructor, Sensei Mary-Ann Landers, New World Shotokan Neko Bellville Dojo began as a community initiative in the Cape Town, Nothern Suburbs. It later evolved into a not-for-profit organisation, officially recognised by DSD as a voluntary association under NPO 290-466 since 31 March 2023.
With a commitment to traditional karate values and modern sports-oriented training, our instructors, with the support of coaches and our amazing parents guide students toward fitness, fortitude, and self-defense. At our dojo, based in Bellville South we emphasise Community, Upliftment, and Family, where we thrive to foster a supportive environment where each member feels valued and encouraged to grow, which ripples into their daily lives.
Join us and embrace the motto lived by Sensei Brendon: “Work hard, and you will reap the rewards. Block out the noise in the world and focus.” Together, let’s journey towards personal development and martial arts excellence.
Sensei Mary-Ann Landers 8th DAN
Sensei Mary-Ann Landers, a proud Bellville native, ignited her passion for karate five decades ago while observing friends train on a Saturday morning. Since then, she has dedicated her life to mastering the art. As the Senior Instructor at Neko Karate Dojo in Parow North, Sensei Mary-Ann shares her wealth of knowledge and experience, instilling values of health, discipline, and perseverance in her students through karate.
Originally part of a close-knit group of five friends who embarked on their karate journey together, Sensei Mary-Ann stands as the sole perseverer, achieving an impressive eighth dan while continuing to refine her skills. For her 7th Dan she was graded by Sensei Hitoshi Kasuya in Japan in 2009, she has also proudly represented her country in prestigious world championships held in Turkey, Mexico, and Japan.
Sensei Mary-Ann attributes her success to the inspiration provided by her esteemed instructors, whom she now seeks to emulate by passing on her wisdom to future generations. Firmly believing that karate is accessible to all, she emphasizes its significance as both an enjoyable activity and a vital life skill in contemporary society. With karate offering lifelong benefits suitable for individuals of all ages, Sensei Mary-Ann advocates that it’s never too late to begin embracing the rewards of this ancient martial art.
Balancing her role as a project manager at the Capitol Planning and Project Department at the University of Cape Town, Sensei Mary-Ann finds solace and joy in her hobbies, including reading, swimming, and gardening. She cherishes her students at the dojo, whom she regards as her own children, fostering a sense of camaraderie and familial connection within the martial arts community.
Sensei Brendon Abrahams 3rd Dan
Sensei Brendon Abrahams, a proud native of Bellville South, has led a life deeply intertwined with his community and the pursuit of excellence. Graduating from Goeie Hoop Primary and Bellville South High, he embarked on a journey of academic and professional growth, studying Civil Engineering at Peninsula Technikon (now CPUT) and commencing his career with the Bellville municipality in 1995.
Karate has been a steadfast companion throughout Sensei Brendon’s life. Starting at the age of 10, he attained his junior black belt before pausing to complete his matric year. Four years later, he resumed his karate journey under Sensei Mary-Ann at Shotokan Neko Karate, where he continues to hone his skills and pass on his knowledge.
Fondly reminiscing about his upbringing in Bellville South, Sensei Brendon recalls carefree days spent playing in the streets with friends until dusk. Karate was not just a sport but a way of life for him, fostering discipline, determination, and hope. It was during these formative years that he learned the importance of perseverance and self-belief, lessons that continue to guide him today.
Now, Sensei Brendon is dedicated to giving back to his community through karate, instilling in others the same values and principles that have shaped his own journey. With his motto – “work hard, and you will reap the rewards” – he encourages aspiring martial artists to focus on their goals, make responsible choices, and strive for greatness in every aspect of life.
Senpai Jamie Fourie 2nd Dan
Senpai Jamie Fourie, a dedicated martial artist, brings a wealth of passion and enthusiasm to the dojo. Despite his relatively young rank of 2nd Dan, Senpai Jamie’s commitment to karate is unwavering, serving as a source of inspiration for students of all levels.
He believes in embracing life’s opportunities with positivity and enthusiasm, living each moment to the fullest. His mantra, “You have one amazing life, so live it like nothing matters. Everything is awesome if you give it a chance,” resonates deeply with his approach to karate and life in general.
Having achieved his 2nd Dan at the end of 2023, Senpai Jamie continues to embody the principles of karate both on and off the mat, inspiring others to strive for greatness. He fosters a supportive and inclusive training environment, empowering his students to reach their full potential and become confident, well-rounded individuals.
In addition to his martial arts journey, Senpai Jamie excels in his professional life as a Sales Manager at Gateway Metalworks. Despite his busy schedule, he remains dedicated to assisting at both Bellville and Parow dojos while attending his own training sessions.