Director Sixel

My name is Vanessa J. Ramirez. I am 27 years old, born in the city of Los Angeles.

Something about my past that I have overcome is being unsure of how to deal with pain and trauma in healthy ways. Martial arts have helped me learn to regulate myself with the therapeutic benefits of practicing martial arts. 

Something from my past I would like people to know about me is that I was never a talented or gifted person when it has come to sports or anything else. I practice martial arts because I want to be great at something I love doing.

Growing up, my heroes were my father and mother because I admired their hard work and achievements as Mexican immigrants in the working-class community.

I started to train in martial arts because I wanted to learn self-defense. Now I train in martial arts because I feel the power that comes with it. Martial arts makes me feel like a powerful person; Physically, mentally, and emotionally.

I attended California State University Fullerton for my undergrad and have a double major in Anthropology and Chicano/a/x studies. 

Here are a few things I am most proud of accomplishing:

• Graduating from a university with a double major
• Two-time NAGA blue belt Absolute champion
• Learning to love myself and forgive my past/present mistakes