About Us

Founded in 2020, JKA Karate-Do Empow-Lil Academy is highly appreciated for its social activities and self-confidence program. We devote our efforts to inheriting and developing the irreplaceable Japanese martial arts culture. On September 10, 2021, we were approved to join the JKA-SKD World Organization of Canada. In 2022, we became members of Karate Alberta and Sport Calgary.

The Japan Karate Association promotes building skills and self-discipline through research and Karate-Do instruction. These skills improve the well-being of our members and cultivates a sound martial arts spirit.

Why Choose JKA Karate?

JKA EMPOW-LIL ACADEMY follows traditional Shotokan Karate, one of the most powerful and effective styles. Our training is based on five key benefits.

Self-Defence: Looking after yourself in a threatening situation

Fitness: Improving your general health and well-being

Confidence: Developing a ‘can-do’ attitude mentally, physically and socially

Respect: Being part of a karate club where we all support each other

Enjoyment: Achieving all of the above and coming back for more

Martial arts class with students bowing on a mat, wearing white uniforms, in a dojo with Canadian and Japanese flags on the wall.

Authentic Japanese Karate

JKA EMPOW-LIL Academy offers a powerful and direct form of self defence because with authentic and purposeful training. It’s important to learn karate or any martial art in a club that is supported by a reputable governing body. We are proud members of the JKA – ‘Keepers of Karate’s Highest Tradition’. This means we have access to very high standards of teaching and senior Japanese instructors with international reputations for excellence. 

Three young martial artists in white karate uniforms performing synchronized movements on a blue and red mat, with judges seated in the background inside a gymnasium.
Person practicing karate in a dojo, wearing a white gi and black belt, performing a punch in a low stance. Background includes martial arts posters and a wooden frame.

Led By A Champion

A person wearing a karate gi with a black belt is standing in front of a poster featuring an older martial arts instructor. The gi has Japanese characters and a red circle resembling the Japanese flag. The poster includes text and an image of the instructor.

Our owner and chief instructor, Lilia Boaghi, is an experienced trainer and team coach. She’s also a multiple Kumite medal winner. This combination of champion fighter and successful instructor means our students have the opportunity to learn from one of the best every session.

‌”I know for sure that you will bring peace in your mind when you will practice Traditional Karate-Do. I am ready to help you discover that Karate isn’t just for learning self-defence; it’s also great for your overall health and well being. Learning Karate with me will be incredible for you!” - Sensei Lilia

Mission

The JKA Empow-Lil Dojo is a nonprofit community studio offering martial arts classes for all ages focused on self-actualization, total body healing, and strength. Our goal is to help people tap into their potential, seeking balance and grace through movement while establishing a strong foundation of integrity and self-discipline that will facilitate personal and professional success.

Our community is committed to supporting diversity and inclusion and to maintaining an environment with equitable treatment for all.

Vision

At JKA Empow-Lil, we envision a community where people of all ages, backgrounds, abilities, and genders feel safe, valued, and inspired to work toward a more inclusive and prosperous future for all. To this end, the lens through which we pursue our martial arts training is one of empowerment, equity, and skill-building. We train to build strength, in body, mind, and character. To increase confidence, both in physical ability and personal potential; and to seek flexibility and resiliency, both on the mat and in life. We believe the inherent values of our core tenets; courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit can guide any human to create a rich and full life of endless possibilities.