Celebrating Budo Accelerator’s 2021 Summer Academy
Over 3 weeks in July and August, high school students entered a real-life martial arts dojo in Orange County, CA and participated in a new breed of leadership development program designed by Budo Accelerator and offered in partnership with the Irvine Public Schools Foundation. Students encountered a groundbreaking curriculum that teaches resilience, emotional intelligence, and other core leadership skills using the unique martial art of aikido. The program centered on training experiences that integrate intellectual, emotional, and physical challenge, all in a collaborative and supportive environment. Students also benefited from mentorship and lecture sessions connecting them with professionals relevant to their academic and career interests.
“I gained confidence and so many valuable leadership skills in this program. And as someone interested in a career in medicine and medical research, I’ve been able to connect with recent med-school grads, and a veteran research scientist who ran programs at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Without Budo Accelerator, I never would have had the opportunity to meet and get support from these people.”
“Irvine Public Schools Foundation is proud to partner with Budo Accelerator to offer this unique opportunity for students to learn how to become influential leaders in their schools and communities. Not only do students gain practical leadership skills, but have the incredible privilege to be mentored by industry leaders to support their career aspirations and dreams. ”
Our Impact
100% of participating students improved in collaboration, creativity and innovation, and goal orientation, while 83% improved in critical thinking and problem solving. 83% left the program with good or great knowledge of time management skills and 67% reported very good comfort levels with public speaking. Our favorite student statistics, however, are these:
100% rate our programs as very good or excellent
100% made new friends
83% would strongly recommend to a friend
Budo Accelerator is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and no accepted student is turned away for lack of funds or martial arts experience. If you know an OC-area high school student interested in a challenging and fun after-school program for the fall, our applications are now open!
Special thanks to the Irvine Public Schools Foundation for their collaboration and support.
