Kimberly Platt
Renshi Kimberly Platt started her martial arts training in 2003 at New Jersey Martial Arts Academy. Under the instruction of Hanshi Marvin Carmona, she has since achieved the rank of Go Dan (5th degree black belt) in Isshinryu Karate, a traditional Japanese style. Kimberly actively competes in tournaments around the country and is the youngest person; male or female to win the IWKA black belt kumite grand championship. She is also the only person to hold distinction of three consecutive victories of this world championship. Kimberly has also won the OIKKA, AOKA, and West Chester Fall Classic black belt grand championships and was twice named female competitor of the year at the Isshinryu Hall of Fame Tournament. In 2023, she won the Instructor of the Year award from the Isshinryu Hall of Fame as well.
She has been an active instructor of Isshinryu since 2013 and teaches students from ages 3 to adult. Kimberly also runs several martial arts enrichment programs at various local elementary schools and is the head birthday party instructor for Pure MMA.
Outside of martial arts, Kimberly has completed her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology at Rutgers University, and her master’s degree in Criminal Justice and Terroristic Studies at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Kimberly has previously worked as a direct support professional in a program for adults with physical and intellectual disabilities, helping them to develop social, vocational and life skills.
