Jamaica's connection to Shotokan karate runs deep. Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon-A-Tai — the IKD's founder — served as Jamaica's chief instructor from 1976 to 1980, laying the foundation for a tradition that endures today. The Jamaica Shotokan Karate School was established in Kingston in 2006 as a non-profit, dedicated to training students of all ages in the IKD tradition. When the International Karate Daigaku was formally founded in 2011, Jamaica was a founding regional chapter — bringing the island into a global network spanning 63 countries.

Discipline
Training builds mental and physical discipline that carries beyond the dojo into everyday life.
Respect
Mutual respect between students, instructors and opponents is the foundation of all IKD practice.
Community
Karate as a vehicle for youth development — empowering young people on a path of health and purpose.

Leadership profiles coming soon. Add leaders via WP Admin → Leadership.

1976
IKD founder's Jamaica connection begins
Shihan Woon-A-Tai serves as Jamaica's chief Shotokan instructor
2006
Jamaica Shotokan Karate School founded
Non-profit established in Kingston to train all ages
2011
IKD founded internationally
Jamaica joins as a founding regional chapter
2012
IKD World Cup — first edition
Jamaica competes in Toronto — Team Kumite podium
2016
Jamaica hosts IKD Caribbean Cup
Kingston welcomes Caribbean nations
2019
IKD Caribbean Karate Cup
Jamaica competes in Team Kata and Kumite
2025
Central Caribbean Cup gold medal
Rasandre Evans wins gold in Panama; WKF ranking #17
2026
IKD World Camp returns
Jamaica delegation attends Haliburton · June 18–21
Join IKD Jamaica today
Be part of a tradition going back to 1976 — all ages and levels welcome.
Get Started