About us

The International Canadian Martial Arts Federation is a unifying body for martial arts practitioners, clubs, and enthusiasts. Founded with the mission of promoting traditional martial arts and fostering a sense of community, we provide a platform for learning, competition, and growth.

Our focus spans multiple disciplines, including Tang Soo Do, Para Karate, and traditional Karate. These arts embody the values of discipline, respect, and perseverance, which form the cornerstone of our federation.

Whether you’re an experienced martial artist or just beginning your journey, the International Canadian Martial Arts Federation welcomes you to a supportive community that celebrates the spirit of martial arts while fostering excellence in every practitioner.

Mission Statement

To spread happiness, self confidence, clarity of mind, and physical fitness, by making Martial Arts available to everyone.

Executive Board

  • President

    Dr Yasser Mostafa Kamel, MD, MSc, DBA

    President
    Martial arts have been Yasser’s lifelong passion. He began training in Shotokan Karate in 1981 under Sensei Okamoto Hideki, the JKA Technical Advisor for Egypt. Yasser has practiced Shotokan Karate across Egypt, the UK, and Canada, and while it remains his primary discipline, he has also trained in Aikido, Taekwondo, Filipino Martial Arts, and Kickboxing. He currently holds a 7th Dan Black Belt in Karate.

    Beyond martial arts, Yasser is a renowned hematologist, oncologist, and researcher, contributing to the development of various cancer treatment drugs. He holds multiple advanced degrees (MSc, DBA, Diplomas) and serves as a visiting senior lecturer at King’s College London. With over 100 scientific publications, Yasser continues to impact the medical field while residing with his family in Nova Scotia, Canada.

  • Mr. Alaa ElShafey

    Director of Fitness & Technical Advisor-Karate

    Alaa ElShafey is a seasoned Karate champion and former member of the Egyptian national team. With a 5th-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate, he has successfully coached multiple Karate teams. Beyond martial arts, he is an expert in fitness and bodybuilding, holding a Level III Weight Training Specialist certification from the International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness (IFBB), a CrossFit Level 1 certification, and a CrossFit Gymnastics Specialty Course. He also earned a Physical Fitness & Performance certification from the Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee. As ICMAF’s Fitness & Bodybuilding Director, Alaa is dedicated to developing personalized training programs that enhance martial artists' strength, conditioning, and performance.

  • Mr. Mohamed Hamdy

    Head of the Para Karate Committee
    Mr. Hamdy, head of the Para Karate Committee, is a highly skilled karateka whose journey began in 1983. A decorated competitor, he transitioned to coaching after retiring, leading multiple clubs to tournament victories. In Egypt, he pioneered karate training for students with special needs, leading to the official inclusion of Para Karate in the Egyptian Federation.

    Under his leadership, the national team won gold at the world championships in 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2021, earning him the Presidential Medal in Sports - First Class. Later, in Saudi Arabia, he coached the national team to gold in three consecutive Asian tournaments. He holds a 6th Dan black belt.

  • Mr. Mohamed Abdullah Ramadan

    Chief Financial Officer
    Mohamed graduated with a BA degree from Egypt in 1983 and brings over 30 years of rich experience in finance, sales, and marketing. His career spans leadership roles across diverse sectors, including FMCG, food processing, cement, and retail consumer goods. In each of these industries, Mohamed has served as a vital member or head of financial departments, overseeing strategic financial operations and driving business growth.
    Beyond his expertise in finance, Mohamed has successfully launched and managed major business ventures, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and strategic vision. His extensive exposure to sales, marketing, and management has equipped him with a well-rounded skill set that continues to drive impactful results.

  • Mr. Yasser ElHarere Secretary of the Federation Yasser started his Karate career in 1986. His passion for Karate began as a player in his local dojo and then as a national military Karate squad member in 1992. After his retirement as a player, he hel

    Secretary of The Executive Committee

    Yasser started his Karate career in 1986. His passion for Karate began as a player in his local dojo and then as a national military Karate squad member in 1992. After his retirement as a player, he held the responsibility of coaching several teams, including the Karate team in one of the biggest Army clubs, a club in Hurghada, and as head coach for all the teams in one of the largest cities situated at the Red Sea.  Yasser also became a national Karate examiner in Egypt. He has attended several world tournaments as a referee. Yasser received his first-degree black belt in 1990 and has held a fifth-degree black belt since 2017.

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ICMAF Mission Statement and Charter

1. Universal Access to Martial Arts:

We believe every person on earth has the right to learn, practice, and enjoy martial arts.

2. Recognizing Unique Abilities in Para Karate:

In Para Karate, we view players not as individuals with special needs but as those with unique abilities that deserve to be explored and maximized for their benefit and that of the entire team.

3. Equal Opportunities for Para Karate Players:

Para Karate players will receive equal opportunities to learn, practice, and compete in tournaments. They will be treated the same as other players who do not require special arrangements to participate.

4. Respect as a Foundational Value:

Respect is the cornerstone of our community. Young and junior belt players will show respect and courtesy to older and senior players, who in turn will mentor, support, and guide their juniors.

5. Holistic Development of Mind and Body:

We aim to strengthen both the soul and body of our players. Discipline, commitment, integrity, and honesty form the foundation for personal and spiritual growth.

6. Building Responsible Citizens:

Through martial arts, we teach students to become better citizens of their families, communities, and countries.

7. Martial Arts as a Path to Peace:

Martial arts are not a means to win battles or start conflicts but a way to avoid them through discipline and understanding.

8. Purpose of Tournaments:

Tournaments are not about proving superiority over others. They serve as opportunities for participants to evaluate their training and identify areas for improvement and development.

9. Fostering Unity through Discipline and Respect:

The ICMAF serves as a platform to unite martial artists and foster strong bonds through discipline and mutual respect.

10. Training with Joy:

We begin each training session with a smile and end it with an even broader one. Training sessions, seminars, tournaments, and gatherings are vital for building relationships and learning from one another.

11. Meaningful Connections and Continuous Improvement:

Attendees of ICMAF activities are encouraged to leave with new connections, friendships, and actionable guidance for personal and professional growth.

12. Inclusive Community:

We welcome players from all federations, societies, countries, and gatherings who live by and share our values.