Empowerment in Every Form: Hosting a Women’s Self-Defense Class at Alpha Krav Maga Compound
Empowerment in Action: Hosting a Women’s Self-Defense Class in Northbrook
At Chicago Boudoir Photography, my mission of empowerment is at the heart of everything I do — not just in front of the camera, but in every corner of life. Confidence, strength, and self-worth don’t stop when the photoshoot ends. They show up in the way we walk through the world, the boundaries we set, and the courage we carry.
That’s why this October — in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month — I wanted to create a community event that focused on a different kind of empowerment: physical protection and confidence through self-defense.
So, I partnered with Alpha Krav Maga Compound in Northbrook, Illinois to host a Women’s Self-Defense Class, led by the incredible Master George Buruian.
About Our Instructor: Master George Buruian
To say we were in good hands would be an understatement. Master George holds a Master 1 ranking, is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Alpha Krav Maga, and a 5th Dan Black Belt in Taekwondo. He was even inducted into the Martial Arts Masters Hall of Fame in 2014!
His background is just as impressive as his skill — he began boxing at a young age, went on to train in kickboxing and MMA, and served as both Head Coach of the Romanian National Team and Romanian Olympic Team from 1997–2000.
But what stood out most wasn’t just his expertise — it was his energy. He and his team were professional, approachable, and genuinely passionate about teaching.
A Day of Strength, Laughter, and Learning
A powerful group of women joined me for this empowering afternoon, and from the very first moment, you could feel the excitement in the room. The Alpha Krav Maga Compound space was spotless, well-organized, and welcoming — the kind of place where you immediately feel comfortable even if you’ve never thrown a punch before.
Throughout the session, Master George and his team guided us step-by-step through real-world self-defense techniques, teaching us how to respond if faced with an attacker. We learned about awareness, confidence, and the importance of trusting our instincts — all while breaking a sweat and having a whole lot of fun.
There were moments of laughter, moments of focus, and more than a few moments of surprise as we realized just how capable our bodies really are.
Chicago Boudoir Photography hosted a Women’s Self-Defense Class at the Alpha Krav Maga Compound in Northbrook, IL
Why It Matters
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and while conversations about abuse can be difficult, they’re deeply important. For me, hosting this class was about more than learning physical techniques — it was about creating a safe, supportive space where women could feel powerful in their own skin.
Every woman deserves to feel secure, confident, and in control — whether she’s in a photo studio, walking to her car, or standing up for herself in everyday life.
My Takeaway
At the end of the day, I left with a few sore muscles I didn’t know I had, a full heart, and a renewed sense of appreciation for what it means to be strong — not just emotionally, but physically too.
Empowerment comes in many forms, and I’m so grateful to everyone who joined me for this experience. To the amazing ladies who showed up ready to learn, laugh, and challenge themselves — you were incredible!
And to Master George and the entire Alpha Krav Maga team — thank you for sharing your knowledge, creating a safe environment, and reminding us all what it feels like to take our power back.