Who We Are
Welcome to Kogarashi Dojo. Traditional Goju Ryu Karate in Mississauga, Ontario. Established in 2019, we're proud to be a part of Goshukan Canada and the larger Seiwa Kai International Goju Ryu Karate organization..
Our dojo is led by Elizabeth Ubalde and Tony Semana, both holding the rank of 6th Dan in Seiwa Kai Goju Ryu Karate Do, and 5th Dan in Japanese Karate Federation Goju Kai. With over 30 years of martial arts training and more than 15 years of teaching experience, Elizabeth and Tony have honed a unique approach to Karate instruction. Elizabeth also holds a distinguished role as the Canadian representative of the Seiwa Kai International Women's Advisory Board, further testament to our team's expertise and commitment to the art of Karate.
Prior to breaking out on their own, Elizabeth and Tony were senior instructors at the Etobicoke Dojo for more than a decade. The Etobicoke Dojo and their owners, Paulo and Josephine Cardoso are life-long friends and family. Both schools continue to share events and students cross-train between the schools.
Shihan Elizabeth Ubalde
Elizabeth Ubalde is a highly skilled martial artist, dedicated instructor, and passionate advocate for holistic wellness. With a 6th Dan in Seiwa Kai International Goju Ryu Karate, a 5th Dan in the Japanese Karate Federation Goju Kai, and the prestigious Renshi title of Shihan, her credentials showcase her deep commitment and expertise in martial arts.
Elizabeth's martial arts journey, spurred by a love for kung fu movies and ignited by a self-defense seminar at the age of 15, has grown into a life-long commitment. Over the years, she has not just honed her skills but has also become deeply involved in the operations and instruction of her dojo, Kogarashi Dojo, which she co-founded with Tony Semana.
While she no longer practices shiatsu therapy, the knowledge she gained from studying Eastern medicine has influenced her approach to martial arts. Further enriching her holistic approach is her certification in Pilates, which she incorporates into her teachings when appropriate.
As a respected member of the Seiwa Kai International Women's Advisory Board, Elizabeth represents Canada, promoting equality within the martial arts community. Her classes incorporate personal training and tai chi-based stretching, enhancing her students' physical strength, flexibility, and inner harmony. Elizabeth's infectious energy and unwavering dedication create a supportive and empowering environment for her students, encouraging continuous learning and personal growth.
Shihan Tony Semana
Tony Semana, co-founder of Kogarashi Dojo alongside Elizabeth Ubalde, brings to the table over 30 years of martial arts experience and 20 years of instructional expertise. His journey into the world of martial arts began with Karate in 1998 and took a transformative turn when he joined what would eventually become Goshukan Canada in 2006.
Tony's connection to Goshukan Canada and the Seiwa Kai International organization anchors his teachings in the rich history of Goju Ryu. Regular training with the leaders of these organizations ensures that his teachings remain rooted in tradition, while also embracing modern approaches.
Tony is a holder of a 6th Dan in Seiwa Kai Goju Ryu Karate Do, a 5th Dan in the Japanese Karate Federation (JKF) Goju Kai, and the prestigious Renshi title of Shihan. However, he views these accomplishments not as endpoints but as milestones on his ongoing journey of learning—a philosophy he shares with his co-instructor, Elizabeth.
In his classes, Tony emphasizes the integration of kata, sparring, and practical self-defense. His ability to adapt his teachings to meet individual student needs, combined with his extensive experience and knowledge, creates a supportive and enriching environment at Kogarashi Dojo.