Migrants and refugees at Snap Fitness Dandenong
July – November 2025
In collaboration with Snap Fitness Dandenong, Anne Pang Self Defence conducted two FREE self-defence courses to support the migrant and refugee women in the Dandenong and surrounding areas:
– the first one was from July to August 2025 with 35 participants
– the second one was from September to November 2025 with 30 participants.
With the support of the City of Greater Dandenong, these courses were very popular and well attended.
https://www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/events/women-self-defence-course
The Snap Fitness gymnasium was filled with local women from a rcih diversity of backgrounds including Afghanistan, Peru, Pakistan, China, Vietnam, Taiwan, Indian and so on and a range of religious faither such as Islam, Buddhism, Christianity.
It was truly inspiring to witness these women learning and empowering themselves, gaining confidence and strength with each lesson.
Snap Fitness Dandenong and Anne Pang Self Defence partnered in 2025 in response to the high crime rate in the Dandenong and surrounding areas,
‘A world-renowned Wing Chun Kung Fu instructor is offering free classes to empower culturally-diverse women amid rising crimes and safety concerns.’ – 27/6/205 Dandenong Star Journal
The women ranged from 16 years old to 73 years old. Age was no barrier to their learning and enthusiasm; together they encouraged and helped each other to grow and develop their physical skills and build their confidence.
These women and some girls learned the basic martial arts techniques and found the inner warriors as well as aspects of gender-based equality, self-respect and self-awareness issues to increase their own personal safety.
They shared stories of how they survived various potentially dangerous situations and inspired each other with their courage and determination.
They found the partner training where they had to apply the techniques with each other very educational and enlightening in being able to discover their own strength and resilience. This remains the most memorable part of their training when they realized their own power and inner strength.
At the end of the course, the participants also underwent a multiple test and a physical examination of how well they knew their techniques. Upon successful competition fo the test, a Certificate of Self Defence was awarded to the participants.
‘Thanks to Anne and the team for providing us with this opportunity and for creating such an inviting and safe environment for us. Thank you for your deep consideration of everyone’s past experiences and allowing us opportunity to change/adapt accordingly. I will forever be grateful.’ – Sandy
‘With all my heart I thank you for your wisdom and connection to support and empower women. I don’t think words can express the gratitude. We’ve shared amazing stories, looked out for one another and learned how to defend ourselves. Does life get any better? Yes, knowing we have confidence and can feel safe within ourselves, with love.’ – Teorrah