In celebration of International Women’s Day, self-defence specialist Leah Nicholls is arming teenage girls in the UAE with confidence, awareness, and the skills to take control of their safety
In a world where personal safety isn’t guaranteed, self-defence is emerging as a vital life skill.
Leah Nicholls, a British martial artist and the UAE’s only female self-defence instructor focused on teenage girls, aims to change how young women approach their security.
Through her Dubai-based initiative, Impulse Defence, Leah equips girls not just with physical techniques but with awareness, confidence, and a powerful sense of self-belief.
More than just defence—it’s empowerment
Dubai is one of the world’s safest cities, but as Leah explains, safety isn’t about geography but awareness.
“I grew up in the UK, lived in London, Sri Lanka, and backpacked solo in South America. I know firsthand how important it is to be prepared for different situations,” she says.
“Self-defence is like insurance—you hope you never need it, but it’s reassuring to know it’s there.”
Leah is passionate about shifting the perception of self-defence from something associated with fear to something that fosters empowerment. “It’s not about paranoia; it’s about preparation. We can’t control other people’s actions, but we can control how we respond.”
A space for girls to thrive
Leah’s martial arts journey began at 11, with Aikido, followed by kickboxing (where she earned her black belt), Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Krav Maga, and Taekwondo. Yet, she often found herself the only girl in class.
“Training in a male-dominated space was intimidating but also inspiring. I realised girls needed a dedicated environment where they felt comfortable and confident,” she says.
Impulse Defence was born from this realisation. Leah’s unique program blends martial arts with real-life situational training, equipping girls with practical skills and self-belief.
Confidence beyond the training mat
“Self-defence isn’t about winning a fight; it’s about survival.” “When girls learn to hold their own physically, they start doing it emotionally, too,” Leah explains. The transformation she sees in her students is profound.
“I’ve had students tell me they speak up more in class, handle conflicts better, and even walk with more confidence.”
Lessons also cover consent and boundary-setting, helping girls confidently navigate friendships, relationships, and social situations.
