‘I am more aware of situations now and I know how to handle myself. I feel more confident because if I was in a bad situation, I would know how to deal with it.’
After martial arts helped to boost her self-esteem following a confrontation at a party, Star Kent is kick-starting a campaign to show how learning self-defence can improve confidence.
Her story was broadcast on ITV News Anglia on Thursday 11th February.
The 16-year-old from Great Yarmouth says she would dread walking alone at night after the incident, which left her badly shaken.
‘I was threatened by a bloke. He was drunk. It was outside a party and I was waiting to be picked up,’ explains Star.
‘He was shouting and swearing at me. I was really scared and didn’t want that ever to happen again.
‘This was before I started self-defence. Now I feel like if I was in that situation, I would be able to de-escalate it and talk to the person.
‘If they didn’t listen or tried to hurt me or attack me, I would know how to handle it.
‘I have been learning self-defence for a couple of years now and I’ve become a lot more confident.’
With Fixers, Star has helped to produce a poster campaign which encourages young people to be aware of their surroundings and stay safe.
Star with Fixers UK created this poster.
Visit: Fixers UK to learn more!