top of page
about us
Kelly Larkin-Watts is continuing the family's legacy. For eight years, Girls Defend has brought together peoples of diverse ethnicities and cultures to train for combat assault defense. Events have brought useful safety insights to hundreds of students in the Bay Area.
Our History
2016
-
Girls Defend was founded by Kelly Larkin-Watts in San Francisco, CA.
-
Partnered with Larkin Bukido.
-
Held at the African American Arts and Culture Complex in the Fillmore District.
-
Our first workshop serviced 30 young defenders.
2017
-
Another great year of service at the African American Arts and Culture Complex in the Fillmore District.
-
Partnered with Larkin Bukido.
-
Radio shout out by local radio station KBLX.
-
Our workshop serviced 20 young defenders.
2018
-
Another great year of service at the African American Arts and Culture Complex in the Fillmore District.
-
Partnered with Larkin Bukido.
-
Our fist fundraiser to provide Girls Defend tee-shirts was a success.
-
Our first private bookings with Cornerstone Young Women's Conference and KIPP Academy.
-
This year we serviced over 100 young defenders.
2019
-
This was an explosive year. Girls Defend was expanded to Oakland.
-
Partnered with Larkin Bukido.
-
New partnerships with Aurum Prep, Guardian Gym, Fam1st, CreativeLei Desings.
-
Private bookings increased.
-
We serviced over 150 young defenders.
2020
-
You all were there. You know what happen. Absolutely nothing, thanks CORONA.
-
The start of Defense Talk Live on Instagram.
2021
-
A year of increase. An increase of services and products.
-
The introduction of Mommy & Me self-defense classes.
-
1-on-1 lessons added to the course options.
-
Self-defense weapons added to our product list.
2022
-
The expansion is real
-
Found a new location in Oakland to host classes.
-
Began our Girls Empowered courses.
-
New Partnerships with OUSD
-
Pop ups and vending all around the Bay Area.
Subscribe to Girls Defend newsletter
bottom of page