A 16-year-old from Bradford has achieved the level of black belt in Taekwondo.

After years of disciplined training and practice, Rehan Lodhi has finally been approved by senior Senseis to don the dark, prestigious and hallowed belt

“It’s been a journey of self discovery and perseverance, building physical coordination and mental discipline through sustained effort”, said Rehan, a Year 11 student at Dixon’s Allerton Academy.

“While it’s been a valuable life experience, it’s not what you wear around your waist that matters but what you have in your mind, heart and spirit. It’s about strength of character, building resilience and achieving excellence. He now wants to inspire and encourage his peers to see his experience as an anchor in life, building positive self direction leading to personal and character development.

Rehan, whose career ambition is to go on to become a Corporate Lawyer has during his period of training entered many tournaments and competitions taking himself well out of his comfort zone. He hosts a mantelpiece of medals having won numerous trophies including 1st prize and best student for outstanding performance. This talent and skillset helped bolster his rate of progression and grow to the next level.