DWC 100 Women: Lina Khalifeh, SheFighter
In moments where women's voices are often subdued and their strength underestimated, there are trailblazers who shatter stereotypes and forge paths of empowerment. One such extraordinary woman is Lina Khalifeh, the founder of SheFighter, a self-defence studio dedicated to empowering women through martial arts. Lina’s journey is not just about teaching physical self-defence; it is about igniting a fire of confidence, resilience, and independence in the hearts of women worldwide.
Growing up in Jordan, Lina Khalifeh was no stranger to the societal challenges that women face. Witnessing gender-based violence and discrimination, she felt a profound sense of injustice. But rather than being defeated by these challenges, Lina found within herself a determination to fight back. She channelled her frustration into something positive and transformative—an idea that would eventually evolve into SheFighter.
Lina's journey began in 2012 when she started teaching a small group of women self-defence techniques in her parents' basement. These were not just any classes; they were a lifeline for women who had experienced abuse and needed to reclaim their power.
Word spread quickly, and what started as a modest initiative soon grew into a powerful movement. Lina realized that she was addressing a critical need—women's safety and empowerment.
The story of SheFighter is one of resilience and relentless pursuit of a vision. Lina faced numerous obstacles, from societal scepticism to financial hurdles. However, her unwavering belief in the importance of her mission kept her going. SheFighter officially opened its doors as the first self-defence studio for women in the Middle East, and Lina’s efforts began to garner international attention.
Lina’s impact extends far beyond the physical studio. She has conducted workshops, seminars, and training sessions worldwide, spreading her message of empowerment to countless women. Her work has been recognized globally, earning her accolades and awards, including being named one of the BBC's 100 Women and receiving the Economic Empowerment Leadership Award from Vital Voices.
What makes Lina's story truly inspiring is her ability to connect with the women she teaches. She understands that self-defence is not just about physical strength but also about mental fortitude.
She encourages women to believe in their worth, to stand up against oppression, and to support one another. Lina’s classes are not merely about learning to throw a punch; they are about building a sisterhood of empowered women who uplift each other.
Lina Khalifeh’s journey is a testament to the power of one person’s determination to make a difference. She has transformed her pain into purpose, her struggles into strength, and her vision into a reality that impacts thousands of lives.
Her story reminds us that change begins with one courageous step, and that each of us has the power to create a ripple effect of positive transformation.
Today, SheFighter is more than a self-defense studio; it is a beacon of hope and empowerment for women around the world. Lina Khalifeh has shown us that true strength lies not just in our fists, but in our hearts and minds. Through her unwavering dedication, she has given women the tools to defend themselves, the confidence to pursue their dreams, and the inspiration to fight for a better world.