Kanzen for Life team (Credit: Kanzen for Life)

A new chapter in community empowerment has been officially launched in Dundee. Kanzen for Life was officially launched at the ...

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A new chapter in community empowerment has been officially launched in Dundee.

Kanzen for Life was officially launched at the Apex Hotel on Thursday January 17 in front of an audience of partners, stakeholders, third sector organisations and business leaders who gathered to witness the unveiling of a charity dedicated to improving lives through health, empowerment, and connection.

The highlight of the evening was an inspiring keynote address by renowned leadership and performance expert Allistair McCaw. Sharing strategies for developing high-performing individuals and resilient communities, Mr McCaw’s words reflected the purpose and values of Kanzen for Life.

The event also saw a question and answer session with Allistair McCaw hosted by Johnny Lothian, Headteacher of Dundee’s new East End Community Campus.

Kanzen for Life, formerly known as Kanzen Karate, has grown from its martial arts roots into a driving force for health, wellbeing and education in some of Scotland’s most deprived communities.

Initially focused on using Karate as a tool for personal growth and discipline, the organisation quickly recognised its potential to address broader social challenges.

Sona Robison MSP Cabinet Secretary for Finance (Credit: Kanzen for Life)

Today, the charity supports more than 1,200 people each week across Dundee, Angus, and beyond, offering a range of activities that go far beyond Karate.

At the heart of the charity’s mission is the new Kanzen for Life Hub Centre, designed to combat pressing issues like poverty, inactivity and isolation. Through a mix of physical activity, educational workshops and social events, the centre is poised to create a lasting impact on the community.

The new Kanzen for Life Centre, located on Clepington Road, Dundee, will create 10 new jobs while addressing major challenges such as inactivity, social isolation and mental health issues.  The facility will provide a safe, inclusive space for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, fostering stronger and healthier communities.

The project represents a £1 million investment in the Stobswell area through capital spend and job creation. The new centre is the culmination of this transformation, highlighting the charity’s mission to build healthier, more connected communities.

Roy O’Kane, Charity Chief Officer of Kanzen for Life, shared his personal journey and the charity’s ambition to inspire future leaders.

He said: “In an era of rapid change, we’re seeing the consequences of physical inactivity, poor leadership, and unhealthy habits. At Kanzen for Life, we offer a solution by building a foundation of health, empowerment and connection to equip young people to be the leaders of tomorrow.

“We are very grateful to everyone for supporting us on our journey so far and at our launch event. There was a lot of energy in the room and we are looking forward to developing our work and playing our role in building better lives and empowering communities. The new centre is a critical piece of our plans, and we will work together with partners to deliver this for Dundee.”

QA with Allistair McCaw and Johnny Lothian (Credit: Kanzen for Life)

Shona Robison MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Finance in the Scottish Government, also added her congratulations to the Kanzen for Life team. Ms Robison commended the charity’s commitment to tackling social inequality and promoting wellbeing:

She said: “We have all watched the evolution of Kanzen Karate with extreme pride over the past 16 years and celebrated their many significant achievements in that time.  Kanzen for Life is the latest exciting chapter of this local success story with a £1 million investment in a Stobswell Community Hub. Through the power of physical activity, education and wellbeing, Kanzen will continue to help to improve the lives of thousands of local kids, adults, and families each week.”

The launch event’s diverse audience reflected the broad coalition supporting Kanzen for Life, including representatives from local businesses, third sector organisations and community groups. 

The evening concluded with a powerful call to action, urging attendees to support Kanzen for Life’s vision through volunteering, partnerships, and financial assistance.

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