Empowering Future Leaders Through Martial Arts and Leadership
Join our supportive community dedicated to personal development and making a positive impact in the DC community. Learn more about our free children's programs and a low-cost adult program.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Enroll for Out of School Time Program 2024-2025
We're excited to announce our free Out of School Time (OST) program for DC residents ages 6-18, starting 23 September 2024! This program is a fantastic opportunity for young people to immerse themselves in a variety of enriching activities and learn new skills in a fun and supportive environment. Learn More.
Free programs for DC kids!
We provide free programs to DC schoolchildren, made possible through generous funding from DC city funds and Learn24. Children aged 6-18 are introduced to Kung Fu, Chinese Lion Dance, Chinese Thunder Drumming, and African Djembe Drumming, fostering teamwork and cultural appreciation through participation in gala events and educational excursions to historical landmarks and museums during the summer months.
Train your physical and mental agility
We offer Jow Ga Kung Fu classes tailored for adults of all ages, whether you're looking for short-term or long-term training. Our classes for adults are flexible and allows you to train at your own pace and schedule, practicing whenever it fits into your busy life.
What we teach
What our community is saying...
"In a transient city like DC, it is difficult to find community spaces that are simultaneously close-knit and welcoming to newcomers or those just passing by. Somehow, Sifu Rahim has been able to create a place within Hung Tao Choy Mei that does both effortlessly. The instructors care for all the students while also paying attention to individual strengths, while the students support one another in and out of the classroom. The breadth of knowledge you gain of kung fu, Jowga history, drumming, and lion dance is incredible – no two classes ever feel the same!"
-Claudine
Student, Adult Program
"This will be [my child's] third year of summer camp. It is a place where magic happens. The energy is very positive, just stepping into this space lifts my spirits every time. I love how the classes and camp bring children and teens of all different ages together, to work together, and learn from one another. It is really inspiring to watch the kids grow into positions where they can role model and demonstrate skills to others - you watch their confidence and poise grow too. Sifu Rahim Muhammad is such an amazing role model and teacher for the kids, as well as for their parents. He teaches discipline, kindness, non-judgmental behavior, and the importance of health and wellbeing. The physical skills my son has learned are awesome - they include coordination, speed, agility, mobility, strength, and endurance. Even more importantly, he has learned to be a good listener, patient, and a kinder person. He values the friendships that he has built here over two years. Our lives in DC are immensely better thanks to the efforts of Sifu and his team."
-Katy
Parent
"I like that Jow Ga has a long history in the city...the school has a chill, family-like environment. It's open to all ages and they work with you depending on what your goals are, and I was able to learn a lot of forms - I kind of knew I wouldn't be able to stay in the city forever, but once you learn a form, you keep it in your head and can work on it wherever you find yourself."
-Jake
Student, Adult Program
Who we are...
Hung Tao Choy Mei Leadership Institute (HTCMLI) is a distinguished 501(c)(3) organization in Washington, DC, dedicated to nurturing lifelong skills and leadership qualities in both children and adults. Since its inception in 1995 and incorporation as a nonprofit in 2003, HTCMLI has revitalized the essence of community within martial arts, placing paramount importance on well-being, health, and safety.
Empower the next generation of leaders
Your donation is an investment in our community and directly benefits the free children's programs we provide to DC kids. Together, we can expand our reach and empower more young leaders.