Security Awareness Women’s Self-Defense Training

AWAR is proud to offer a Security Awareness and Self-Defense Training designed to empower women through knowledge, awareness, and practical tools for personal safety.

We are pleased to collaborate with Carla Prado, an English-speaking, self-defense specialist who regularly delivers women’s security training for FAO, IFAD, and other UN agencies in Rome. This event also aligns with FAWCO’s Target Program, which focuses on strengthening human rights, building resilience, and advancing equality and freedom for women and girls.

About the course

Effective self-defense begins with awareness, prevention, and situational assessment. This course focuses on practical strategies grounded in biomechanics, leverage, and situational awareness rather than physical strength, and it is suitable for women of all ages. Participants will learn techniques that demonstrate how a 45 kg woman can effectively defend herself against a significantly larger aggressor without relying on force. The emphasis is not on confrontation, but on decision-making, disengagement, and gaining the critical seconds needed to escape and seek safety.

The training methodology is experiential and evidence-based. Participants actively test techniques under supervision, reinforcing self-confidence, realistic risk assessment, and awareness of personal capability. The outcome is increased self-efficacy and a stronger sense of personal empowerment.

Instructors

Carla Prado: Four-time World Champion and women’s self-defense specialist

Paolo Quaglia: Judo 6th Dan and self-defense specialist

When: Saturday, March 7 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Where: The course will be in Acilia at Dubai Fitness, Via Ippolito Desideri, 83. Acilia is accessible via the Ostia train line, and the gym is only a 350 meter walk from the train stop. Carpooling is also a great option for this event and we ask anyone who doesn't mind driving to contact Sally Cardenas at events@awar.org to coordinate.

Donation: 60 euros per person, which covers the course with a professional instructor, gym space and supplies, coffee and water. Please note that registrations are non-refundable. However, if you are unable to attend, your place may be transferred to another AWAR Member.

PLEASE REGISTER AND DONATE ONLINE BY FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20.

Participants are kindly encouraged to bring a light exercise mat of their own.