EXPLORE THE WORLD OF DDN
Travel through the Forest of Memories, discover our upcoming events,
or continue below to find answers to frequently asked questions.
View our community parnters below and see how they can help you.
QUESTIONS ALONG THE JOURNEY
What Students & Parents Often Ask
What is the minimum age to start training at DDN?
DDN welcomes students from 3 years old, with training adapted to suit each age group:
Younglings (3–6) — movement, games and play
Guardians (7–17) — structured martial arts and self-defence
Warriors (18+) — full adult training
Do I or my child need any martial arts experience to join DDN?
No. DDN welcomes complete beginners. Students are introduced to training progressively according to their age, experience and ability. There is no expectation to already know martial arts, be especially fit or understand dojo etiquette before starting. Everyone begins somewhere, and training develops from there.
How is safety handled during DDN training?
Safety is part of every DDN lesson. Students are taught to practise with control, respect their training partners and stop immediately when instructed or when a partner taps.
Techniques and training tools are introduced progressively according to each student’s age, experience and ability. Students are taught that learning self-defence is not about hurting their training partner — it is about developing control, awareness and responsibility.
What if I or my child is shy, nervous, full of energy or not very athletic?
That’s perfectly okay. DDN recognises that every student is different. Some are confident, some are shy, some have lots of energy, and others may need more time to feel comfortable.
Training is adapted to help students learn and develop without comparing themselves to those around them. Students and instructors are encouraged to support one another, build confidence and grow through training.
We are not here to make everyone the same. We are here to help each person become a better version of themselves.
How does DDN teach children to handle bullying, conflict and real-world situations?
DDN teaches that physical skills are for protection, not retaliation. If pride, ego or hurt feelings are at stake — walk away. If your safety or the safety of someone you care about is genuinely in danger — protect yourself or them.
Avoid the fight when you can. Protect when you must.
How can parents support their child’s DDN journey?
Parents are welcome to observe DDN training and take an active interest in what their child is learning. Encourage consistency, celebrate their progress without comparison, and give them the space to develop their own DDN journey.
How does progression and grading work at DDN?
Students progress through DDN by learning, practising and refining the skills required for each rank. When a student is ready, they are given the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned through grading.
There is no pressure to grade before a student is ready. If they need more time, they simply continue training and refining until they are prepared.
Progress is earned through effort, understanding and consistency.
Gradings are held three times a year.
Rank Earned — Not Paid For.
Want to see how the journey unfolds?
Click the suit of armour to discover the full rank progression.
Is the DDN free trial really free, and do I have to join afterwards?
Yes. DDN’s introductory trial month is completely free for new students, with no obligation to join afterwards. It gives you or your child time to experience DDN and decide whether the training environment is right for you before committing.
Want to continue your journey?
What should I or my child expect at the first DDN class?
Your first DDN class is about experiencing the dojo and getting comfortable with how we train. You’ll meet your instructor, be introduced to the class and take part in the lesson at a level appropriate to you.
There is no pressure to get everything right — your first class is simply the first step in your DDN journey
What should I or my child wear, and do we need a uniform or equipment?
For your first classes, simply wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. There is no need to purchase a uniform or training equipment before starting.
As students progress, DDN provides and pays for their first uniform and required training tools.
Additional or replacement uniforms, clothing and equipment can be purchased through
Every Journey Begins With a First Step
If DDN feels like the right path for you or your child, come and experience it for yourself.
Your first month is free, with no obligation to continue.
Branches ALONG THE JOURNEY
Each leaf represents a journey. As our students grow, so too does our Tree of Life.
S.Maseko
Current DDN Student
S.Dengler
Current DDN Student
P.Anderson
Current DDN Student
DDN Kunoichi 3
Current DDN Student
D.Dengler
LifeLong Student
DDN Founder & Instructor · Shodan
J.Bezuidenhout
Shared Path
Former NSA Student · Privately trained and assisted by Donovan
A.Fourie
Before DDN
Former Private Student · Trained before the founding of DDN
E. Milovanovic'
Former DDN Student
Part of the DDN journey
E. Lombard
Shared Path
Former NSA & A3 Combat Student · Trained and assisted by Donovan
J. Lombard
Shared Path
Former NSA & A3 Combat Student · Trained and assisted by Donovan
DDN Kunoichi 1
Current DDN Student
DDN Kunoichi 2
Current DDN Student
Branches ALONG THE JOURNEY
Each leaf represents a journey. As our students grow, so too does our Tree of Life.
Growing Together
Recognising the local businesses, organisations and community groups growing alongside DDN.
Crazy with Love
Community Connection
Discover alternative skin and wellness products created to support everyday care and wellbeing.
Skin & Body Fitness
Community Connection
Offering personalised slimming, laser and beauty treatments tailored to support each client’s individual needs.
Waners American Trading
Community Connection
Discover original American and Western merchandise, bringing a unique taste of the USA to South Africa.
JB Coaching
Community Connection
Personalised life coaching helping people gain clarity, overcome challenges and create a meaningful path forward.