Master

Karen Blackledge

4th Degree Black Belt

Master Karen Blackledge has been a dedicated student under Chief Master Diwakar “Dan” Maharjan since 1996, culminating in her attainment of a 3rd Degree Black Belt. A testament to her skill and dedication, she clinched a Gold Medal at the 2010 International Open Friendship Taekwondo Championships (IOFTC) in Nepal. As a USA Taekwondo-Certified National Referee, Master Karen has officiated at prestigious events such as the U.S. National Open Taekwondo Championships.

Beyond her achievements in Taekwondo, Master Karen is also a compassionate advocate for social causes. She has served as an original Board Member of the non-profit IOFTC organization since 2000, contributing to its mission of promoting friendship and unity through Taekwondo. Additionally, she has traveled to Nepal, Hong Kong, and India to organize Taekwondo events and impart self-defense skills to vulnerable girls at organizations like the Metta Center in Banepa, Nepal.