‘We’ Over ‘Me’ Kevin & Maritza Pereira (above) are offering free Jujutsu classes to a wide variety of area residents. Among those “getting a kick” out of learning is Thomas Gee (far right), son of Kyle & Kathy DeBusk Gee of Blackstone.
CLASSES HERE ATTRACTING AREA YOUTH AND WOMEN
In a world where many things come with a price tag, there is a corner of Nottoway County where the most valuable gifts — safety, self-discipline, and sense of belonging — are given away for free.
At the center of this movement are Hanshi Kevin Pereira and his wife, Senpai Maritza Pereira. Together, they have transformed the Pereira Combat Academy from a martial arts school into a sanctuary. They operate their Jujutsu school — free-of-charge — out of their home at 520 North Main Street in Blackstone. Their style is formally called “Shishi Ryu Combat Jujutsu” — Japanese-based with Okinawan, Filipino, and Western influences.
The Pereiras are from Bronx, NY and moved to Blackstone from Brooklyn in June 2024.
For Kevin and Maritza, their mission isn’t just about the perfect roundhouse kick or a strong takedown; it’s about a husband-and-wife duo who looked at their community and decided that financial barriers should never stand in the way of empowerment.
Kevin Pereira is no stranger to transformative power of the mats. He has dedicated his life to teaching people of all age groups and abilities. His expertise extends far beyond standard training; he has spent more than 20 years adapting techniques for individuals with various disabilities — ensuring that the martial arts are accessible to everybody and every soul, regardless of the challenges they face.
Maritza’s strength is forged in fire. As a survivor of both domestic violence and the devastation of Hurricane Maria (2017), Maritza knows the heavy silence of trauma. She understands the paralyzing feeling of being in desperate need of help but feeling as though you cannot reach out or speak up. Her presence at the academy provides a bridge for those who are currently where she once was — offering a safe space where words aren’t always necessary to be understood.
Their “Free Classes” program has become the lifeblood of the neighborhood, drawingin youth and adults who might otherwise never have stepped onto a mat.
But what makes the academy truly special is the culture of “we” over “me.” Without being asked, the spirit of the school has inspired unique traditions.
The Shared Table: Every week, students and parents pitch in, bringing cases of water and snacks to share.
No One Goes Without: If a student is thirsty or tired after an intense session, the community ensures they are refueled. It is a beautiful, self-sustaining cycle of gratitude.
Kevin and Maritza’s mission extends far beyond the academy’s four walls. Drawing from Maritza’s own journey, the academy conducts Free Women’s Self-Defense Workshops. These sessions serve women from Nottoway County and all surrounding areas, teaching them vital skills needed to navigate the world with confidence.
Kevin and Maritza Pereira are teaching more than combat; they are teaching resilience.
In every bead of sweat and every shared bottle of water, there is a message: “You are seen, you are safe, and you are part of something bigger.” The Pereira Combat Academy is a reminder that while one person can make a difference, a community working together is unstoppable.
Currently, the Pereiras teach about 45 students — including 13 women.
For more information, text Kevin: 347-697-5936.
Or email: pereiracombatacademy@yahoo.com
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