President Dixon
Nidai Kaicho Richard Dixon
Appointed on November 2, 2024 by Shodai Kaicho Steven Johnson
Hanshi Richard Dixon began in his Martial arts training in 1985 in the art of Goshin Jutsu. Over the years his training would take him to study several arts both traditional and non traditional origins. In 1995 Richard found a home at Sembach Martial Arts where he would earn Black Belt ranks in Goshin Budo Jujutsu and Motobu Ha Shito Ryu Karate. This was also the time when he would become a full time martial artist training six days per week often including morning and evening classes. During this time he would expand his training to include Aiki Jutsu and American Kenpo.
In 2000 Richard was passed joint ownership of Sembach Martial Arts from Sensei Gavin Southworth.
In 2004 Richard opened his second Martial arts school location followed by a third location in 2006.
In 2008 Richard Dixon was awarded his 5th Dan and permission to found the Unified Fighting Arts Association and Unified Fighting Arts Federation. At this point Master Dixon was running 4 dojos and teaching a martial art PE program at Rock Solid Academy to grades K-12. Master Dixon also taught martial arts program at Miseracordia University and guest lectured at Colorado technical University at the PHD level twice.
Master Dixon has continually taught a broad spectrum of martial arts seminars and lectures relating to various aspects of the arts.
Master Dixon has promoted a Distinguished and talented group of black belt students who have all developed as excellent competitors and instructors.
-In 2015 Master Dixon stepped away from brick and morter dojos to pursue a profession in welding. He has maintained his Martial arts passion and continues to train students privately and conduct seminars.
- Master Dixon is now the Head of Welding for Morgan corperation. He heads welding for 14 manufacturing plants and several service centers across the United States and Canada.
Master Dixon has written a welding training program taught across Morgan and even taught to several highschools in a -for credit paid internship. Master Dixon is an AWS Certified Welder, Certified Welding Educator and Certified Welding Inspector.
Since joining the NJKF Master Dixon has been an Ambassador for the organization in his travels across the United States and Canada and been the only person in the history of the NJKF to hold the position regional director for 2 regions simultaneously.
A proud member of the
National Karate Jujutsu Federation -
National Karate Organization,
Gansters Martial Arts,
Tong Leong - Pennsylvania and Delaware head
Zen Budo Kai
Master Dixon has received martial arts ranks and mentorship from -
Hanshi Steven Johonson- NJKF
Hanshi Steven Newman -Zen Budo Kai Karate and Aiki Jutsu
Hanshi Bart Ganster - United States Karate Organization Ishin Jutsu and Ishin Ryu karate
Grand Master Manuel Agrella - Jook Lum Tong Leong Kuo Shu Kwan
Grand Master James Martin Sr - Shotokan Karate
Grand Master George Elmer -Kenpo
Sensei Gavin Southworth - Nobushi Jutsu (Kumade No'Bushi Kyokai)
And several other instructors.
Current ranks include
Menkyo Kaiden No' Bushi Jutsu
8th Dan Zen Budo Ryu Nihon Karate Do
8th Dan Ishin Ryu
7th Dan Aiki Jutsu
5th Dan Jook Lum Tong Leong
4th Degree Black Belt American Chinese Kenpo
President of International Affairs
- Mike Andrus, Sho-Dai Soke
- FIRST President of International Affairs in the 50 Year history of the organization
- 9th Dan Hon Hab Do
- 9th Dan Wado Shinzen-Kai Kokusai
- Founder/GM Instructor, Safe Day Studio (20 years)
- Systems of Combative Arts
- Reality-based Combatives
- Info@ustaysafe.com
Chief Administrator
- Lena Salgado, Renshi 4th Dan
- Owner of Martial Science Academy in Aurora, Colorado
- 4th Dan Motobu-ha Shito-Ryu Karate
- 1st Dan Tae Kwon Do
- Currently studying Matayoshi Kobudo and Isshin-Ryu Karate
- Air Force Veteran
- First woman on the board in the history of the NKJF
Regional Directors
Region 1
Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island
Ray Balut-Newman, Shihan rbalut@hotmail.com
Ramon Balut-Newman
Hachi-Dan – Zen Budo Kai Chung Lung Gwo Shu Guan
Hachi-Dan – United Fighting Arts Federation
Bai Hei Daidz – Zen Budo Kai-Tsee Wai Kuen
San-Dan – Zen Budo Aiki Jutsu Kai
Ramon Balut-Newman has had the great fortune of growing alongside the Zen Budo Kai organization since its early days. He was present during its formative years, shaped deeply by the people, the training, and the evolving spirit of the system. What began as a personal journey in martial arts quickly became a lifelong path of growth, teaching, and connection to a broader community of martial artists who share a commitment to honor, discipline, and self-discovery.
Over the years, Ramon has earned advanced ranks across several disciplines, including Zen Budo Kai Chung Lung Gwo Shu Guan, Unified Fighting Arts Federation, and Zen Budo Aiki Jutsu Kai. He is also a recognized Bai Hei Daidz in the Zen Budo Kai-Tsee Wai Kuen system. These ranks are milestones in a life dedicated not only to technical proficiency but also to mentoring others and promoting the principles that have guided his journey.
Ramon’s teaching style reflects a principle-based approach—prioritizing understanding, adaptability, and intent over rote memorization. He believes that martial arts should empower students not only with skill, but with the judgment and clarity to apply those skills with purpose when it matters most.
As a senior instructor and lifelong student, Ramon continues to support the growth of others while remaining grounded in the knowledge that the path of a martial artist is never truly finished. He views his time with Zen Budo Kai as both a gift and a responsibility: to honor the past, train in the present, and help shape the future with integrity and heart.
Region 2
Region 3
Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Washington D.C., Virginia, West Virginia
Kurt Amann, Renshi TheEastonDojo@gmail.com
Region 4
Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida
Steve Newman, SIJO
Hanshi: Zen Budo Kai Chung Lung Gwo Shu Guan
Soke: Zen Budo Ryu Nihon Karate Do
Renshi: Shito Ryu
Taipan: Zen Budo Tzee Wai Keun
Hanshi: Zen Budo Aiki Jitsu Kai
Sijo: White Dragon Martial Arts
Hanshi: United Fighting Arts Federation
Sijo: NKJF
Region 5
Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Minnesota
Mike Jones, Hanshi cmjones@yushikan.org
Region 6
New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana
Andrew Snyder, Hanshi snyderphoto@gmail.com
· Okinawan JuJitsu-Currently teaching at Tatsu Kai Dojo Refugio, TX and Cordero’s Martial Arts Academy Refugio, TX.
· Promoted to Shodan in JuJitsu by Jon Bonner on 10/16/1993
· PA State Trooper Firearms Instructor and Office Safety Instructor. 1998-2006
· Certified in Dignitary Protection 5/17/2000 PA State Police
· Promoted to 8th Dan and given the Shogo title of Hanshi on 6/6/2023 by Shodai Kaicho Steven Johnson and the Senior Executive Council of the NKJF
· Inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame 8/12/2023
· On Board of Directors South Texas Karate Black Belt Association
· Being inducted into The United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame 07/19/2025
Region 7
Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri
Gregg “Shogun” Brown, Soke shogunma@gmail.com
Region 8
Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, California
RavenHawk Cain, Soke-Dai ravencain73@gmail.com
Grandmaster Raven Cain
Warrior • Strategist • Protector
Grandmaster Raven Cain is a world-renowned martial artist, warrior-philosopher, and founder of Way of the RAVEN – Cain Family Martial Science, a comprehensive system blending ancient warrior traditions with modern tactical realities. With nearly five decades of training, Cain holds multiple black belts and grandmaster certifications in arts such as Jujutsu, Shaolin Kempo, Kickboxing, Jeet Kune Do, Boxing, Filipino Kali, Ninjutsu, and Krav Maga. His real-world experience with the Guardian Angels sharpened his understanding of the psychology of violence and the criminal mind.
Way of the RAVEN is a living martial science that teaches hand-to-hand combat, small unit tactics, blade and firearm proficiency, vital point striking, de-escalation, and battlefield strategy — all rooted in warrior ethics and adaptability. A scholar of Bushido, the Native American battle tactics, and modern warfighting doctrines, Cain trains students to master not only the body, but the mind and spirit.
Today, Grandmaster Raven Cain continues his mission through Homeland Heroes, his non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to empowering veterans, law enforcement, abuse survivors, and anyone striving to reach their true potential. He stands as a living embodiment of the warrior ideal: courageous, disciplined, and unbreakable.
Region 9
California, Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii
Professor Zahalea Anderson
Heavy is her crown yet; she wears it like a feather. Soft, strong, spiritual, and sensual. To have the strength to move mountains. To have the knowledge to teach a nation. To nurture, like they were her own. A mysterious woman, a fun woman, a logical woman, an emotional woman, but, an honest woman. A humbled woman. One who knows her worth because she has paid dearly for every ounce of it. She is fierce so she can be compassionate. She is passionate so she can be rational. To be wild and free, is her warrior way. Full of fire because her passion for living burned brighter than her fears. Wearing her scars like a backless dress, this Warrior Empress is building an empire with the some of the stones that were thrown. She is, Zahalea.
Brooklyn, New York, June of 1980. The youngest of four from Urban and Roselee Showe. Her ancestral lineage flows through the island and southern roots of, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Savannah, Georgia and Gullah Geeche of
South Carolina. Zahalea carries her African spirit and glory wherever she goes. She embraces her ancestral heritage with every breath she takes. She gives thanks. Raised from the sands and waters of Long Beach, California. Zahalea walked in her purpose and aligned with her destinies. A professional dancer ranging from classical ballet to hip hop. One of the top 10 track and field sprinters of her time. A devoted mother and wife; now a widow. And the leading martial arts practitioner warrior of the western region in the late great Dr. Moses Powell’s, Sanuces Ryu Ju-Jitsu System.
Professor Zahalea currently holds the rank of 8th Dan. Blood, sweat, tears, dedication, sacrifices, and hard work, allowed the divine timing and alignment of Professor Zahalea to respectfully be a bonified master instructor/practitioner who has earned her space on the panel with the legendary heavy hitters of Sanuces Ryu Ju-Jitsu and other fierce warriors in the martial arts community. Professor Zahalea is authentically a 2nd generation student of Sanuces Ryu Ju-Jitsu. The roots and rivers of her foundation come from her instructor/father 1st generation student, Grand Master Urban Muhammad. The humble beginnings of her evolution were at their dojo of the Urban School of Self-Defense in Long Beach
CA. The hours of training that was endured on and off the matt. Giving and receiving. Touching and going. Taking strikes, applying joint locks, embracing the matt work, and becoming one with weaponry. Being the only female warrior, Professor Zahalea discovered a path that would allow her to use her strength and gracefulness to execute her survival. It wasn’t easy, but it was very beneficial. To have been battletested in the streets. To have survived obstacles that one may not even fathom on where to start. She has the confidence to stand alone. To have people try to push her out. To tell her that she did not belong. Yet, to have people praise her for her work. To have people love and respect her. The Ying and Yang of life. Professor Zahalea continues to strive to maintain her balance.
Beyond her impressive martial arts pedigree and personal triumphs, Professor Zahalea is a guiding light in her community, imparting a message that transcends self-defense techniques and physical strength. At the heart of her teachings is the profound belief in the transformative power of divine feminine energy. Professor Zahalea’s mission of love and unity extends beyond equipping her students with the skills to defend themselves physically. She instills in them a mindset that embodies love, resilience, grace, and self- assuredness, regardless of the challenges they’ve faced. One of her mantras is to instruct all persons in her community “not to look like what they have been through.” This powerful
concept underscores her dedication to helping individuals rise above their past hardships, casting off the weight of trauma, and embracing the full potential of their inner strength. To Professor Zahalea, divine energy is not limited to gender; it’s a force that resides within everyone, a wellspring of power and resilience that can be harnessed to overcome life’s obstacles. Through her teachings, she encourages her students to tap into this inner well of strength, to walk with grace and confidence even when facing adversity. She has the humility to provide a safe space for those in need to learn self-defense for their mind, body, and spirit. In her classes, she blends the physicality of martial arts with the nurturing guidance of divine feminine energy. She believes that true empowerment arises from harmonious balance of love, strength, and grace. Her students not only learn to defend themselves but also carry themselves with poise and self-assuredness, radiating an aura of confidence that repels negativity and attracts positivity. Professor Zahalea, as she is affectionately called by her students and community, is a four-time Holl of Famer, a receiver of prestigious awards such as being a receiver of the Life Time Achievement Award from the President of the United States Joe Biden, a receiver of the Office of New York Citation, Congressional Recognition from Congressman Hakeem Jefferies, Cover page of the number one martial arts magazine in the world-The Deadly Art of Survival,
and most importantly, a humanitarian for which Professor Zahalea will continue to serve and be forever grateful.
Professor Zahalea’s RA Life Defense LLC., is in Long Beach, California. A Black-Women-Owned Essential Business. Welcomes all persons from all walks of life who seeks to find breath and balance, bravery and courage, skill and wisdom, discipline and structure, love and comfort through martial arts. Professor Zahalea will guide her students who will eventually discover their inner strength, beauty, potential, and will take you pass of what you may have thought your limit was. Discovering your truth and living unapologetically. Ous.
Region 10
Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho
Jeremy Selch, Sabumnim jds_hiyah@yahoo.com
Senior Master Sabumnim Jeremy Selch began his martial arts training in Traditional Song Moo Kwan Taekwondo and Hapkido in 1983 under the tutelage of his stepfather, 8th Dan Grandmaster H.T. Caraway, at the age of three. Sabumnim Selch currently holds a 7th Dan from the World Song Moo Kwan Federation and a 6th Dan from the World Song Moo Kwan Association, having tested before some of the oldest Grandmasters of Taekwondo globally.
Sabumnim Selch's lineage can be traced directly to the founding school (Kwan) of Taekwondo, the Song Moo Kwan. His stepfather trained directly under Supreme Grandmaster Byung Jik Ro, the founder and direct student of Shotokan’s Founder Funakoshi Sensei, as well as 1st Generation Song Moo Kwan Grandmaster Sun Do Chung, who trained under Byung Jik Ro in Korea before moving to the United States.
Over his 42 years in martial arts, Sabumnim Selch has achieved considerable success in competitions during the 1980s and 1990s, frequently qualifying for and competing in numerous State, Junior Olympic, and U.S. National Taekwondo Competitions. As he has advanced in his training, he has found great satisfaction in preserving the origins of Traditional Taekwondo for self-defense purposes and imparting those lessons to others. He has taught hundreds of students as Head Instructor at his home school under his stepfather's guidance and eventually founded his own schools in both Washington and Utah State
Regional Directors Roles and Responsibilities
Purpose: The purpose of this document is to outline the crucial roles and responsibilities of NKJF Regional Directors, highlighting their essential role in guiding and supporting NKJF State Directors. Regional Directors are pivotal to ensuring State Directors succeed in all aspects of their roles, fostering an environment in which each State Director feels welcomed, accepted, and has ample opportunities for recognition and advancement within the NKJF.
- Regional Directors will actively cultivate strong relationships and familiarity with all member dojos and solo members within their jurisdiction, serving as a resource to State Directors.
- Regional Directors will work closely and collaboratively with their assigned State Directors to maintain up-to-date and accurate contact lists for member dojos and solo members, promptly communicating any updates or changes to the NKJF President.
- Regional Directors will actively support their State Directors in efforts related to member recruitment, event planning, scheduling, promotion, marketing, and communication, ensuring each State Director has the resources needed to excel.
- Regional Directors will conduct individual check-ins with each State Director monthly, as well as facilitate monthly group conference calls. These consistent communications will foster camaraderie, ensure alignment with NKJF goals, and reinforce a supportive network.
- Regional Directors will provide oversight of social media content created by State Directors, ensuring professionalism, dignity, integrity, and accuracy. Posts should reflect NKJF's values, remain politically and religiously neutral, and exclude any profanity.
- Regional Directors will serve as mentors to State Directors, actively assisting them in adhering to NKJF's policies, moral code, and honor code, and offering guidance in managing interactions with their respective state memberships.
- Regional Directors will encourage State Directors to extend their expertise by providing seminars or arranging qualified instructors to conduct educational events, promoting knowledge sharing and member growth.
- Regional Directors will plan and oversee sanctioned NKJF seminars within their region, rotating seminar locations across different states within their jurisdiction to ensure equitable opportunities and increased engagement.
- Regional Directors will diligently monitor and support all financial matters to ensure accuracy, consistency, and timely reporting to the NKJF President.
- Regional Directors will proactively encourage and facilitate rank assessments, recognition ceremonies, and promotional opportunities for State Directors, ensuring all activities align with NKJF policies and procedures. State Directors will be supported in their efforts to achieve personal growth and organizational recognition.
- Regional Directors will actively participate in monthly Regional Director Conference Calls led by the NKJF President, providing updates and insights and advocating for the needs and achievements of their State Directors.
- Regional Directors will ensure the timely forwarding of all relevant reports from State Directors directly to the NKJF President, highlighting achievements, activities, and progress in their respective regions.
NKJF State Director Roles & Responsibilities
Purpose: State Directors are essential to the growth and success of the National Karate Jujitsu Federation (NKJF). Their leadership, initiative, and dedication to recruitment and engagement directly impact the Federation's ability to flourish locally and nationally. As the primary representatives of NKJF in their states, they play a crucial role in welcoming, accepting, and recognizing new instructors, dojos, and solo members, thereby fostering a strong sense of belonging and unity.
Key Roles and Responsibilities:
- Actively engage with and maintain strong relationships with all member dojos and solo practitioners within their assigned state, ensuring each member feels welcomed, valued, and supported.
- Work closely with the Regional Director to maintain updated and accurate contact lists of all NKJF members and promptly communicate any changes or updates.
- Actively recruit new dojos and instructors by developing outreach strategies and creating a welcoming environment that emphasizes acceptance, recognition, and community.
- Provide ongoing support to NKJF member dojos and solo members, assisting them in recruiting efforts, event planning and scheduling, promotion, marketing, and communication initiatives.
- Regularly communicate with NKJF members, updating them on upcoming events, Federation news, and opportunities for involvement and advancement. Serve as a knowledgeable resource for NKJF policies, procedures, and practices.
- Organize and facilitate local events, seminars, and workshops to strengthen the community, increase member engagement, and attract potential new members. Maintain a visible and active presence within state events to enhance community spirit.
- Develop and maintain contact information for potential member dojos and practitioners who are not currently affiliated with NKJF, proactively inviting them to explore membership opportunities.
- Participate consistently in monthly individual calls with their Regional Director and contribute actively to monthly group calls to stay informed and aligned with Federation goals and updates.
- Provide detailed monthly progress reports to their Regional Director, summarizing activities, achievements, challenges, and any recommendations for future initiatives.
- Ensure professionalism, dignity, integrity, and accuracy in all NKJF-related social media communications by providing oversight and guidance to members within their jurisdiction. Address any infractions promptly and professionally, documenting and reporting these instances to the Regional Director.
- Mentor and guide NKJF members, helping them adhere to Federation policies, moral code, and honor code, and assisting with behavioral adjustments or improvements as needed.
- Actively participate in NKJF-sanctioned events, particularly within their state and region, including key events such as Winter Camp, demonstrating commitment and leadership by example.
- Clearly communicate NKJF financial policies related to events and ensure members understand how event revenues should be managed and reported to the Federation.
- Encourage and facilitate rank assessments, recognitions, and promotions in alignment with NKJF standards, procedures, and certifications, while keeping the Regional Director informed of all relevant developments.
- Maintain and enforce the established NKJF chain of command, ensuring clear lines of communication and escalation for resolving questions, issues, or concerns efficiently and respectfully.
- Through proactive leadership and dedicated outreach, State Directors embody the mission and values of NKJF, fostering an inclusive, supportive community where every instructor, dojo, and practitioner feels recognized, accepted, and motivated to excel.
NKJF International Country Director Roles & Responsibilities
Purpose: The purpose of this document is to outline the essential roles and responsibilities of the NKJF International Country Directors. These Directors are critical to the global success and international growth of the NKJF. Their role is vital in recruiting and welcoming country instructors and schools into the NKJF family, ensuring they feel accepted, recognized, and valued within our international community. International Country Directors report directly to NKJF International President, Mike Andrus, Hanshi, 9th Dan.
Key Responsibilities:
- Actively recruit and onboard qualified instructors and martial arts schools in their respective countries, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment from initial contact through full membership.
- Build and maintain strong, positive relationships with all NKJF dojo members, solo practitioners, and instructors within their assigned country. Regular communication and consistent outreach are essential.
- Provide clear, accurate, and timely updates directly to the NKJF International President regarding membership, dojo activities, events, and other important developments within their jurisdiction.
- Actively support NKJF member dojo and instructors in event planning, promotion, and marketing efforts. Provide expert consultation and guidance when requested, particularly regarding dojo management and business practices.
- Regularly communicate with NKJF members, promoting engagement, encouraging active participation in recruiting and events, and promptly addressing any questions or concerns related to NKJF policies, procedures, and activities.
- Serve as an ambassador for the NKJF by organizing, promoting, and attending seminars and training sessions, making their presence consistently felt and valued.
- Identify and establish contact with non-member dojo and solo practitioners to encourage their interest and potential membership in the NKJF.
- Conduct monthly one-on-one meetings with the NKJF International President and participate actively in monthly international group meetings organized by the International President.
- Provide monthly progress and status reports detailing membership growth, event outcomes, and other significant activities directly to the NKJF International President.
- Oversee all social media activities related to NKJF within their assigned countries, ensuring professionalism, dignity, integrity, and accuracy in posts. Ensure all content aligns with NKJF standards, avoiding political, religious, or inappropriate content. Address and report infractions promptly, including remediation actions, directly to the NKJF International President.
- Serve as the initial point of contact for addressing questions, issues, or concerns from NKJF members within their jurisdiction. Utilize the proper chain of command by escalating issues directly to the NKJF International President as needed.
- Mentor and guide NKJF members within their country, ensuring adherence to NKJF’s policies, moral and honor codes, and assisting with any necessary behavioral modifications or adjustments.
- Participate actively in NKJF-sanctioned international events, particularly those within their own country or region, to demonstrate leadership, support, and solidarity within the global NKJF community.
- Ensure clear communication of NKJF financial policies regarding event revenue, income sharing, and proper reporting procedures to all members and dojo within their jurisdiction.
- Encourage and facilitate rank assessments, recognitions, and promotions in alignment with NKJF standards, ensuring all advancements are accurately reported to the NKJF International President.
International Country Directors are pivotal leaders whose dedication, initiative, and commitment directly influence the success and international growth of the NKJF community.
