LINEAGE HOLDERS & INSTRUCTORS
Founder & Dean
Sifu Chua Kah Joo
Sifu Chua Kah Joo, a prominent figure in the world of Wing Chun, is a multi-faceted individual with a remarkable journey that encompasses martial arts, acting, and ballet. He has dedicated his life to preserving and teaching this unique martial art, leaving an indelible mark on the global Wing Chun community.
Sifu Chua Kah Joo is the Founder and Dean of the Wing Chun Kuen Training Centre (WCKTC). He learnt Wing Chun Kuen from Sifu Joseph Cheng back in the 1970s. Showing great skill, he was bestowed a lineage holder under Sifu Joseph Cheng.
He went on to learn under Sifu Nino Bernardo and founded Wing Chun Martial Arts Academy in Streatham, London, and Wing Chun Martial Arts Academy in Maidenhead, UK in 1986. Sifu Chua Kah Joo taught countless students in England before moving back to Singapore where he put down roots and established Wing Chun Kuen Training Centre (WCKTC) in 2000.
Sifu Chua views Wing Chun as more than just a martial art; it's a way of life. He emphasizes its holistic approach, promoting both physical and mental well-being. He believes Wing Chun "integrates an understanding of the body’s natural force for powerful yet graceful combat" and "endows the discerning ability to know when to take action and when not to."
lINEAGE HOLDERS
WCKTC's lineage holders embody responsibility, dedication, and WCKTC's values.
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Preserving Legacy: To continue WCKTC's teachings and the preservation of Sifu Chua's vision. Also to safeguard the authenticity and integrity of the art form for future generations.
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Recognizing Mastery: The lineage holder is chosen based on their demonstrable mastery of the art, their deep understanding of its philosophy, and their dedication to WCKTC's principles. It acknowledges their contribution to the art's development and their ability to lead.
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Guiding Future Generations: The lineage holder acts as a mentor and guide for students, ensuring the proper transmission of knowledge and the upholding of the school's values. They serve as a role model and a source of inspiration for aspiring practitioners.
Chandra Mohan
Michael Goutama
Mohan, a stalwart figure in the Wing Chun Kuen Training Centre, embodies the spirit of dedication and perseverance that Sifu Chua instilled in his disciples.
Mohan is our respected instructor, passing on the intricacies of Wing Chun Kuen to a new generation of students. His deep understanding of the art, honed over years of dedicated practice, shines through in his patient and insightful teaching.
He aspires to continue sharing this art, fostering a community of dedicated practitioners who embody the values of respect, humility, and perseverance.
Michael, the next senior student and instructor after Mohan, is a testament to Sifu Chua's influence. Michael's dedication to Wing Chun Kuen is undeniable, his commitment shining through his tireless practice and his dedication to teaching.
Michael possesses a sharp analytical mind, applying a more modern approach to the art. While honoring the traditional techniques, Michael incorporates his understanding of biomechanics and modern training methods, making him a sought-after instructor for those seeking a deeper understanding of the art.
Rae Tan
Rae, having trained under Sifu Chua for years, has absorbed the essence of Wing Chun Kuen, not just through technique but through the spirit and philosophy that Sifu Chua instilled.
Rae is a meticulous instructor known for his patient and insightful approach. He possesses a deep understanding of the art and can break down complex movements into simple, digestible steps.
Rae's passion for the art is evident in his unwavering dedication to Sifu Chua's vision. He sees Wing Chun Kuen as a powerful tool for personal growth, fostering self-discipline, confidence, and mindfulness. Rae is not just an instructor; he works tirelessly alongside Sifu Chua, ensuring the smooth operation of the school and fostering a supportive and engaging environment for students.
WCKTC INSTRUCTORS
WCKTC IN-HOUSE INSTRUCTORS
WCKTC boasts a unique roster of instructors, each bringing their own distinct qualities and experiences to the art of Wing Chun Kuen.
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Deep Rooted in Tradition: The instructors are deeply rooted in the traditional teachings passed down by Sifu Chua. They understand the art's historical context, its philosophy, and its nuances, ensuring students receive a comprehensive and authentic education.
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Modern Understanding: They incorporate biomechanics, modern training methods, and a contemporary perspective into their teaching, making the art relevant and accessible to a wider audience.
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Passion and Dedication: Each instructor is united by a shared passion for Wing Chun Kuen and a deep dedication to Sifu Chua's vision.
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Mentorship and Guidance: Beyond technical skills, the instructors prioritize mentorship and guidance. They understand that Wing Chun Kuen is more than just a martial art; it's a journey of self-discovery. They provide a supportive and encouraging learning environment, helping students develop both physically and mentally.
INSTRUCTORS WHO BRANCHED OUT
Daryl Yeo
Daryl, the first disciple of Sifu Chua to be awarded the Lineage Holder of the school, is a testament to the power of dedication and hard work. Starting his journey in his teens, Daryl immersed himself in the world of Wing Chun Kuen, his youthful energy fueled by a deep passion for the art. Under Sifu Chua's guidance, Daryl's progress was remarkable, his mastery of Wing Chun Kuen blossoming rapidly through relentless daily practice.
Daryl's commitment to the art was not just physical; it was a way of life. He embraced the philosophy of Wing Chun Kuen, understanding its principles of self-awareness, discipline, and respect. This dedication, coupled with his natural talent, allowed him to excel under Sifu Chua's mentorship.
Daryl aspires to share the transformative power of Wing Chun Kuen with others. He started a school outside of WCKTC to create a community of dedicated practitioners, fostering a space where students could not only learn the techniques but also embrace the art's profound philosophy.
OVERSEAS INSTRUCTORS
Sam Catlin
Sam, the first disciple of Sifu Chua and the UK lineage holder of the school, is a testament to the global reach of Wing Chun Kuen Training Centre.
Sam's journey began under the tutelage of Sifu Chua, where his natural talent and unwavering commitment blossomed. He quickly absorbed the intricacies of Wing Chun Kuen, mastering not just the techniques but also the philosophy that underpinned the art.
Sam stresses practicality and imbues his interpretation of it into the art, offering its practitioners a path of self-discovery, and a wider application of the Wing Chun moves.
Sam Catlin now teaches Wing Chun in China's Tianjn Yinghua International School.