Boni Yanagisawa

Boni: If it wasn't for martial arts, I don't know what I would have done with my life.

Boni: There are always challenges in what the job is going to ask of you. But I think it is important to enjoy the moment and enjoy the challenge. To me, after each job there is a great feeling of accomplishment.

Boni: When I owned my own dojo I was working two jobs and my life was very challenging. But as soon my students showed up for class, I was instantly happy. There was a very positive energy and attitude. It was the people I enjoyed the most - the type of people, especially children, who are drawn to martial arts.

Boni: My father and my sensei are both from Hawaii and know some of the same people. Once my father bonded with sensei, his whole outlook on what I was doing changed. He saw the good in it and that's made my father become very proud of me.

Boni: Performing gives me the greatest feeling of accomplishment. It was never so much about winning as long as I feel good about myself and my performances. Actually, the best thing about competing was the people. I am all about enjoying life and enjoying all the people around me. That's what has kept me going.

Boni: My father wanted me to take over the family business,but after studying martial arts for several years, I decided I wanted to open a dojo. It was one of the toughest decisions I've ever had to make in my life. I knew it would be hurtful to my father. I didn't want to disrespect him and go against his wishes, but I knew I had to live my life and do what was best for me.