Jiu-jitsu prodigy fights for funding to compete globally
Princess Akeisha Reuma, a determined 12-year-old jiu-jitsu athlete, is gearing up for a life-changing opportunity at the World Festival Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Abu Dhabi on Nov. 7. She has trained tirelessly, dedicating four to six hours daily to maintain her no. 1 ranking in the Philippines’ White Junior Light Division. With an undefeated record since 2023, her passion for jiu-jitsu drives her ambition to compete internationally and represent her country.
However, the financial burden of participating in an international competition is daunting for her family. “I have sadly turned down many international tournaments because funding is hard to come by,” Princess said during her visit to our family-friendly dojo, Deftac BF Homes, where my children and I train.
As our gym is only a year old, our team is mostly composed of white and blue belts. So, we appreciate it when our coaches bring in visiting practitioners from other dojos to inspire us and raise our performance level to prepare us for competitions.
We were fortunate to have brown belt Catherine Alava from Carlson Gracie Chicago, along with Cat Garcia and sisters Ella and Isis Olaso, who recently represented the Philippines at the Marianas Pro Tournament in Guam and secured gold medals.
When Princess rolled (sparred) with us, she barely took a break. She moved like an efficient machine, taking down everyone in her path regardless of age, weight or gender.
9 golds in 2023
Princess’ journey in jiu-jitsu began at age 10, and she quickly made a name for herself by winning nine gold medals in 2023 alone, in prestigious tournaments like Road to 150th Anniversary of Tarlac International Jiu-Jitsu Games, Asian Sport Jiu-Jitsu Federation, High Rollers Jiu-Jitsu Championship, Cebu International Jiu-Jitsu Open, Manila International Open, Abu-Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro Tour Philippines Jiu-Jitsu Championship, Angeles International Open Jiu-Jitsu and No-Gi Championship, Marianas Pro Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Championship, Manila Open Jiu-Jitsu Championship and Little Foot Jiu-Jitsu Tournament.
Her recent recognition at the 3rd Siklab Youth Sports Awards, which recognizes the top youth performers across all sports nationwide, underscores her dedication and skill.
This year, she has continued her winning streak in various competitions, earning the top spot in the following events: Asean International Jiu-Jitsu Open Championship, Cebu Open International Jiu-Jitsu National Jiu-Jitsu Championship, Marianas Pro Manila Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Championship, Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Tour Philippines National Jiu-Jitsu Championship and Manila International Open Jiu-Jitsu Championship.
As she prepares for the World Festival Jiu-Jitsu Championship, Princess remains hopeful but faces the challenge of securing funds for her trip.
“But, like the rest of the opportunities that have slipped away, the desire to represent the Philippines will remain a dream until generous hearts help us raise the funds needed to finance my trip abroad,” she shared on social media.
“I humbly ask for help. While I continue to train rigorously to be in peak form, I still face the challenge of securing sponsorship in time for the World Festival Jiu-Jitsu Championship.
“No amount is too small,” she added gratefully.
If you would like to support Princess in her quest to make her country proud, consider donating via GCash at tel. 0995-7514464, Joshabel Q. (Princess’ mother). Your generosity can help transform a dream into reality for this promising young athlete.
