In a world where violence often finds its way into the lives of the young and vulnerable, self-defense isn’t just a skill — it’s a lifeline. That’s why Kinship Self Defense is proud to spotlight a nonprofit close to our hearts: Pura Vida Fighting for Kids, an organization using martial arts to change lives from the inside out.
The Problem We Can’t Ignore
Across the globe and beyond, many kids grow up in environments where danger is normal. Whether it’s abuse, bullying, gang pressure, or neglect — too many children learn to survive by shutting down, lashing out, or disappearing into the background.
But what if they learned to stand tall instead?
What if the fight wasn’t with others — but for themselves?
Meet Pura Vida Fighting for Kids
Founded on the principle that every child deserves to feel safe, strong, and seen, Pura Vida offers free Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and life-skills training to youth. These aren’t just classes. They’re lifelines. They teach:
- Discipline and respect
- Emotional regulation under pressure
- Confidence through mastery
- A sense of community and belonging
The mats become a place where trauma turns into resilience, and aggression gives way to control. One technique at a time, kids reclaim their right to feel powerful in a good way.
Meet Loki
Michael Collins, known on the mats as Loki, is a physicist, engineer, entrepreneur — and a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with a purpose. After years in the tech world, he realized real impact doesn’t come from titles. It comes from giving back.
That calling led him to Costa Rica — and to the young warriors of Pura Vida.
📬 A Note from Loki
“My name is Loki. I’m an engineer, physicist, entrepreneur — and a lifelong martial artist.
After years working in tech, I realized something was missing. I had spent so long building tools and systems, but I hadn’t given enough of myself to people. So I joined forces with Pura Vida Fighting for Kids in Jacó, Costa Rica — a nonprofit helping children grow stronger through martial arts, discipline, and support.
I recently taught a free seminar on the cigar grip at their training center. We filmed it to share with the wider community — not just to spread Jiu-Jitsu knowledge, but to shine a light on the important work this team is doing.
This is bigger than technique. It’s about giving kids confidence, safety, and a reason to believe in themselves.
If you’re reading this, you can be part of it too — by sharing the video, donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word. Every bit helps.
Thank you for caring.”
— Loki (Michael Collins)
Real Defense Starts Young
At Kinship Self Defense, we believe in meeting people where they are. For some, that means helping adults stay safe in parking lots and on night walks. For others, it means teaching kids how to say no, stay calm, and fight back — without becoming the aggressor.
That’s why we support Pura Vida’s mission. We’ve seen firsthand how martial arts doesn’t just protect bodies — it rebuilds spirits.
How You Can Help
If you believe every child deserves a fighting chance, here’s how you can support the mission:
- Sponsor a child’s gear or transport
- Volunteer to help at events
- Donate through Amigos of Costa Rica
- Share the seminar video to raise awareness
- Spread the word to people who care about youth empowerment
Final Word
Self-defense is more than striking. It’s surviving. It’s healing. It’s refusing to be broken.
At Kinship and Pura Vida, we’re not just training fighters. We’re raising warriors with purpose — one class at a time.