About Shihan Sandra

Shihan Sandra Louw

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8th Dan Black Belt | WKF World Champion | Founder of Sandra Louw Karate & Fitness Centre

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For five decades, Shihan Sandra Louw has stood at the pinnacle of South African sport — a name synonymous with excellence, integrity, and perseverance. As one of the nation’s most decorated and respected martial artists, she has become a symbol of what is possible through discipline, determination, and unwavering passion.

 

As South Africa’s only WKF World Champion, Shihan Sandra’s legacy is extraordinary. Her journey began with a deep love for the art of karate and evolved into a career that redefined what South Africans — and particularly women — could achieve on the world stage. Through decades of relentless training, international competition, and leadership, she has carved a place among the country’s greatest sporting legends.

 

A defining influence in Shihan Sandra’s journey was her time under the guidance of the late Shihan Shigeru Kimura, the legendary founder of Kimura Shukokai International. His philosophy, precision, and pursuit of perfection profoundly shaped her approach to karate. Inspired by his teachings and his unyielding spirit, Shihan Sandra continues to preserve and pass on his principles — keeping his legacy alive through her instruction, her students, and her lifelong commitment to excellence. Every class she leads is a reflection of that lineage: the balance of power, speed, and control that Shihan Kimura embodied and entrusted to his most dedicated students.

 

Some career Achievements & Honours include:

• WKF World All Styles Champion – Malaysia (1994)

• World Shukokai Champion – 1983

• Winner of “Sport Expo” (Best All-Round Athlete) – 1992

• Springbok and Protea Colours – 1985, 1994/95, 1999, 2003

• South African All Styles Champion – 1985–2004

• World Shito-Ryu International Champion – Scotland (1992)

• South African Shito-Ryu Champion – Portugal (1993)

• All African Champion – South Africa (1994)

• World Shito-Ryu Champion – Japan (1994)

• African Games Champion – Zimbabwe (1995)

• St. Maxime Ladies Champion – France (1995)

• Captain & Coach – Senior All Styles Team – Japan

• World Shukokai Kumite Champion – South Africa (1998)

• Senior All Styles National Head Coach – 1998

• All African Champion – Nigeria (2003)

• World Shukokai Triple Gold Champion – England (2002)

• World Shukokai Champion – South Africa (2004)

• Kumite Champion – KSA Super League (2014)

• World WUKF Champion – Masters Division – Scotland (2023)

 

In addition to her competitive achievements, Shihan Sandra was also a member of the South African Youth Charter for Sport, playing an influential role in shaping the development and representation of young athletes across the country. Her leadership, both on and off the mat, has contributed significantly to the growth and recognition of karate as a respected sport in South Africa.

 

Shihan Sandra’s impact extends far beyond titles and medals. She has long been celebrated as a role model for women in sport — both young and old — in South Africa and around the world. Her journey is one of courage and empowerment, breaking barriers in a male-dominated arena and paving the way for countless women to follow in her footsteps. Her story continues to inspire generations of athletes to pursue greatness with humility, grace, and strength.

 

As the founder and chief instructor of Sandra Louw Karate & Fitness Centre, Shihan Sandra has created a world-class academy dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders — teaching not only the art of karate, but also the values of respect, discipline, and perseverance. Her vision seamlessly integrates traditional martial arts with modern fitness and wellness principles, empowering every student to become the best version of themselves.

 

Through five decades of dedication, international acclaim, and an unshakable belief in the power of human potential, Shihan Sandra Louw has earned her place among the greatest athletes South Africa has ever produced. Her legacy is one of excellence, strength, and inspiration — a living testament to the idea that true greatness is built not only through victory, but through a lifetime of purpose and passion.

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“Karate has taught me that success is not measured in medals, but in the lives you uplift and the strength you help others discover within themselves.”
— Shihan Sandra Louw