Club: FightSportsUK/ Odyssey BJJ – Essex, England South
Belt: Brown
I am an active Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner, referee, coach, competitor, and a member of the UK BJJ community with a strong personal commitment to promoting inclusivity, welfare, and representation within the sport. As a British Pakistani martial artist, I bring lived experience of diversity and understand the importance of fostering an inclusive, respectful environment within clubs and wider organisations.
While I do not currently hold formal welfare or safeguarding qualifications, I am prepared to undertake any required training, I have a enhanced DBS clearance. to fulfil the role to the highest standard. I have experience working with people from a wide range of backgrounds through my professional and creative work, including running a photography and videography business and my day job as an internal recruiter for a large tech company. This work has strengthened my communication and community engagement skills.
I hold a valid DBS check and have an active track record of community involvement and service. I currently volunteer at my local mosque, where I’m part of the committee responsible for organising community activities, improving facilities for the community, working as an undertaker ensuring people are washed and buried in the correct manor according to the Muslim faith. I also run sporting activities for the youth in the holidays such as Football, Cricket and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes to engage youth in positive, structured training.
I am a brown belt under Michael Russel and teach a weekly BJJ class at my local gym in Harlow, Essex and regularly referee at local BJJ competitions, in addition to competing myself. These experiences have given me a strong understanding of athlete welfare, safeguarding responsibilities, and the importance of building inclusive, welcoming spaces for all participants.
Beyond the mats, I’m currently producing a documentary project focused on the origins and development of BJJ in the UK. This project reflects my broader vision: to help grow the sport nationwide by increasing visibility, celebrating diversity, and highlighting the journeys of early British BJJ pioneers to inspire future generations.
My long-term goal is to support the development of BJJ across all communities in the UK—especially underrepresented groups—by improving access, raising awareness, and contributing to initiatives that promote equality, welfare, and inclusion at every level of the sport.
I’m fully prepared to undertake any additional training or certifications required to serve in this role and to support the UKBJJA’s mission with integrity and dedication.
Qualifications/ relevant professional experience
- Enhanced DBS clearance.
- Community work experience.
- Experience working with people from a wide range of backgrounds through my professional and creative work, including running a photography and videography business and my day job in internal recruitment for a large tech company.
- Strong communication and community engagement skills.
- I am prepared to undertake any required training to fulfil the role to the highest standard.
Social Media
Instagram – @jits.247 @twotimesphotographyuk