ZENTAI
Gala 2026

4th Degree

Chloe De Peña

“I started martial arts when I was two and a half years old, so it's been almost fourteen years! Thinking about my students has been my biggest motivation. Knowing that I set the example for what it looks like to not just receive a black belt but become the identity of a black belt has pushed me to never give up. I love how much it feels like home. I'm surrounded by people who love so loudly, celebrate my wins, and push me to grow. Getting to grow up with that kind of family has shaped who I am today. I want to thank Jesus above all for being my foundation. My mom and dad for never setting a limit on what I could accomplish and investing so much in helping me get there. My brother Caleb who mentors me both on and off the mat. And my senior instructors, Coach Avril and Coach Franchelys, for trusting my crazy ideas and being sisters in my life.”

3rd Degree

Jarieliz Rodriguez

“I started training at five years old, and this September marks my ten years at Zentai. Back then I was arrogant/comfortable staying in my comfort zone. Martial arts taught me humility, perseverance, and how to step outside that comfort zone. I almost quit as a red belt, ready to settle for 'good enough.' My mom wouldn't let me, she pushed me until I realized I could push myself. Thank you to Coach Avril, Chloe, and Franchelys for pushing me. Thank you to my dad for pushing me when I wanted to stop, and my mom for being my anchor. And to my little brother, your hugs remind me how much better my world is with you in it. A black belt is gratitude for the people who got you here, and overcoming things together, not alone.”

2nd Degree

Avril Ingles

“I started martial arts when I was 12, and it's taught me to be myself and not let others influence my decisions. It's taught me to proudly own who I am, defend myself, and build the character to become a strong leader. There were times I wanted to quit, feeling like it wasn't worth it or that I wasn't good enough. Instead, I trained harder and worked to become better for myself. Thank you to my Belleville team for always uplifting me, my coaches for teaching me something new every day, my parents for supporting me every step of the way, and Master Allen, Ms. Naomy, and Ms. Sol for giving me the opportunities to grow. Earning my second degree shows me the hard work doesn't stop once you hit a goal, it's about how hard you keep working after.”

2nd Degree

Francesco Altamirano

“I never thought I'd get this far. My martial arts journey started as a silly deal I made with my mother. Little did I know that bet would turn into a job where I get to change lives every day. I have so many people to thank, my family, my coaches, and all the kiddos and parents who give me the strength to keep pushing every day. I'm grateful for every blessing I've been given, and I thank God every day for bringing Zentai into my life. I'm beyond grateful for how far this journey has taken me, and excited to see where it takes me next.”

2nd Degree

Leen Aljanadi

“It feels like just yesterday I was getting my first degree. Zentai has been a big part of my life, and I've grown so much this past year. My confidence has grown, from being scared to lead a drill to confident enough to lead a class, and even public speaking now feels like FaceTiming a friend. It's changed how I handle frustration, how I solve problems, and even my sparring, I've stopped throwing my arms up when I kick and now work on head movement. I'm thankful I got to grow these skills with Zentai. Thank you to Sophia, my best friend and the reason there's always a smile on my face; to Coach Ashley, Coach Karina, Master Caleb, Coach Samantha, Coach Alex, & Coach Raul for shaping who I am; and to my parents and siblings Nina, Ribal, and Jad for the love, laughter, and memories I'll never trade. I can't wait to see how far I'll go.”

2nd Degree

Michael Velez

“I started training at nine and I've been at Zentai for 5 years. Before that, I was nervous, less confident, and full of energy I needed to use. Since starting, I've matured, grown more confident, learned to make smarter choices. Training has taught me to face challenges, adapt, and persevere, and I make sure to spread positive energy inside and outside of Zentai. No matter how challenging training got, I never wanted to quit, I pushed to improve every time. I had surgery last year and couldn't wait to recover and get back on the mats. What kept me going was my goal to grow into someone who could inspire and help others. Thank you to the coaches who shaped my training as I prepared for my second dan. Getting my second dan is a symbol of my strength, persistence, competitiveness, and commitment to growing at a higher level in everything I do.”

2nd Degree

Mousa Shaban

“I started martial arts at four. Even as a kid I was mature for my age, and it helped shape who I am today, teaching me discipline, respect, and how to be a leader. A few months before my first-degree black belt, I wanted to quit, I didn't feel the same passion, and I was scared of what was ahead. What kept me going was the thought of becoming a black belt. Thank you to my parents for always being by my side through soccer, tournaments, and everything else, and to Coach Chesco, Coach Caiden, Coach Mayte, and Coach Yani for teaching me leadership and life lessons. Thank you to Coach Byron for pushing me to get my black belt when I wanted to quit, even though he's left Zentai, his encouragement has stayed with me. Thank you to Coach Lara for her impact on my life, and Master Caleb for always pushing me to get better. Finally, thank you to Master Allen and Mrs. Naomy for the opportunity to grow at Zentai. Earning my second-degree black belt shows how much I've grown, but reminds me there's still a long road ahead.”

2nd Degree

Ransel Fernandez

“Martial arts has shaped my life far beyond the dojo. It's made me healthier and more active, but the greatest impact has been on my mind and heart. Intellectually, training has taught me to think under pressure. Every form and sparring round takes focus, patience, and strategy, I've learned to break challenges into steps and stay calm when things don't go my way. That mindset carries into school and everyday life; I approach problems like a combination, one move at a time. Emotionally, martial arts has taught me resilience and self-control. There have been moments of frustration, doubt, and failure, but each one taught me persistence matters more than perfection. Real confidence isn't about being the strongest person in the room, it's about believing I can keep going. Socially, martial arts has given me a second family. My instructors and the teammates I've helped teach have inspired me to lead by example. For me, it isn't just training, it's a way of life.”

2nd Degree

Robin Molina

“I've trained in martial arts for six years, starting at Zentai Belleville when I was eight. Zentai has changed me, it taught me never to give up and to 'learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable.' These lessons have helped me in martial arts and in life, teaching me leadership, kindness, and how to help others who feel left out. There was a time I wanted to quit, but a conversation changed my perspective, and since then Zentai has become my second home. I thank my parents for always pushing me through difficult moments. I thank my brothers, Fabian, the youngest, who always supports me and makes sure I'm okay, and Coach Raul, the oldest, one of my biggest inspirations in Zentai and in life. I'm grateful for his guidance and our trust. Most importantly, I thank Jesus Christ for guiding me through every stage of my life. This black belt represents six years of dedication, faith, and commitment. I never imagined making it this far. But look at me now.”

2nd Degree

Slater Centeno

“I've been at Zentai for almost eight years. Starting at five yrs. old, I was so energetic I couldn't stay calm for even a few moments. Zentai helped me channel that energy through discipline, teaching me the self-control that's helped me become someone who helps others, inside and outside the dojo. I also started track at five. When I got seriously competitive about three years ago, the pressure grew, two teams, meets, practices, plus a mountain of homework. I was overwhelmed and thought about quitting, but I pushed through, and it made me even more determined to earn my black belt. Thank you to my parents for their love and support and for driving me to every class. Thanks to Coach Caiden for my first degree, and to Master Caleb and Coach Chloe for getting me ready for my second. I also thank Coach Garry and Coach Kathy for prepping me for moments like this. This second degree is a benchmark goal for me. Passing this test brings me closer to the people who inspired me to work this hard, and I plan to keep pushing to reach my next belt too. These accomplishments help me become the person my coaches, parents, and teachers are building me to be.”

1st Degree

Allison Stancu

“I've trained for about 5 years, starting Zentai at 7 yrs. old. I was one of the shyest kids you could've met, but I could step on the mat with ease. Martial arts changed me most through discipline and learning to speak well. At 7, I couldn't speak up for myself, my mom had to answer for me. And I wasn't mean, but I wasn't very respectful either. Learning these helped me hold a conversation with anybody, respect people, and become a better person. I've loved martial arts since I started, but one day I felt like quitting when I became a red belt for the first time. I realized how much harder it would get, and I was scared. I'd never cried over a sport before, but I did then, not from the coaches' teaching, but from realizing how much harder I'd have to work. Even though I wanted to quit, I kept going. Thank you to Coach Caiden, Coach Yanelys, Coach Mayte, and Coach Francesco, though they weren't there at the very beginning, they've made my experience at Zentai so much better. Coach Yanelys guided me through Leadership Academy, Coach Caiden was there when I wasn't doing well, I can talk to Coach Mayte about anything, and Coach Francesco has taught me valuable things about almost everything I know. Getting this black belt means I didn't quit and I kept working hard — one of the biggest accomplishments of my life so far, and I'm so proud of myself.”

1st Degree

Andre Jara

“When I first joined Zentai in 2022, I had long since quit martial arts. I didn't see myself improving, mentally or physically. But after joining, things changed, I became more responsible with my time, learning it's okay to have fun once in a while, but important to keep myself in check and stay active. When I got close to my red belt, I began taking it more seriously, not for the bare minimum, but because I wanted to better myself as a person. Around that time I was invited to join Leadership Academy, and that's when I really began to enjoy what I do, it felt amazing helping younger kids learn martial arts and how to defend themselves if needed. Since then, I've taken more responsibility for my actions outside of Zentai, regulated my emotions better, and gotten better at quick problem-solving. Now that I'm testing for black belt, I'll continue martial arts into the foreseeable future, and I'm grateful for the opportunities I was given along the way.”

1st Degree

Ashley Fernandez

“When I first started at Zentai, I never thought I'd gain anything beyond learning to defend myself. But Zentai became so much more. I had just moved to New Jersey and didn't know many people. The moment I walked through Zentai's doors, I felt like I was part of something. I started at 14, coming back from COVID, trying to find my place again. The connections I built here, students, parents, coaches, friends became some of the most meaningful I've ever had, and shaped who I am. Being somewhere people believe in you even when you don't believe in yourself is something I'll always appreciate. Black Belt Weekend is proof you can get it done no matter where you came from. You can still make it. Zentai taught me discipline, confidence, perseverance, and the value of people who believe in you. I found a community. I found people who believed in me. I made memories I'll never forget. And most importantly, I found a version of myself I didn't even know was there. So wherever I go, whatever I do, I will always know where a part of me started. I will always know Zentai.”

1st Degree

Delayla Herrera-Medina

“Martial arts introduced me to a community of compassionate people who want nothing more than to help you succeed. It helped me experience different types of people, improved my awareness, and made me feel stronger. Before martial arts, my socializing skills were weak, I only knew the same small group of people. Martial arts exposed me to new personalities, and I saw how character shows in how people treat each other. I watched people change for the better through the philosophy of martial arts, not just the skills, a mindset of noticing positivity and enjoying experiences more deeply. I've watched anxious, shy people become confident and daring. Being surrounded by strong people used to make me feel weak, but those same people push me to be stronger through criticism, encouragement, and advice. What I've learned on the mat, I've applied to everyday life, and I'm proud to be part of martial arts because I wouldn't be where I am without it.”

1st Degree

Fernanda Pina

“When I first started, I was around 8, a timid girl who wanted nothing to do with the world, who couldn't even talk to people properly. Martial arts taught me to be confident, be loud, be proud of what I do, and keep pushing forward. Those values show up outside the dojo too, helping a teammate, not getting frustrated when I screw up, presenting in school without fear. I came close to quitting after failing my test and getting into a huge argument with my mom, that's when I saw martial arts as a waste of time. But she encouraged me to keep going, and little by little I saw the impact: more confidence, social skills, and determination, which let me earn the rank I was going for, and now a rank I could only dream about before. Thank you to my parents for pushing me to finish this journey, my coaches for teaching me perseverance, and my friends for showing me I wasn't alone. Black belt means determination, acknowledging every hardship, going above and beyond, and never giving up when times are hard.”

1st Degree

Franchelys Lugo

“When I began martial arts in seventh grade, I never thought it would become such a huge part of who I am. I struggled socially, emotionally, and mentally, I didn't know how to control my emotions, commit to something, or believe in myself. Martial arts became the place where I learned I could change. Every class, every challenge, every failure gave me another opportunity to grow. I became stronger physically and mentally, learning to think under pressure, trust myself, and keep going when things were uncomfortable. Martial arts taught me that character development is real, to accept feedback, communicate better, regulate my emotions, and hold myself to a standard. Now I get to pour into students who may feel the way I once did, and remind them their struggles don't define who they can become. Martial arts gave me confidence, purpose, family, and a reason to believe in myself and now I want to give that belief to others.”

1st Degree

Gabriel Nieto

“It's been 4 years since I started at Zentai Belleville, at age nine. I'm testing for my black belt now. Back then I was a kid who didn't listen well, but martial arts taught me a lot, to be a leader, how to defend myself, to be respectful, and to listen more. Before, I didn't listen to my parents, but once I started Zentai, I was able to listen at home too. The moment that made me want to quit was learning my forms, I had a lot of trouble with them. What kept me going was my dad watching the videos with me to help. I'm thankful for my mom, Alicia Boscana, for always making sure I had a ride to karate, and my dad, Robert Nieto, for helping me when I struggled with my form. This black belt means everything to me, it means I made real progress in my journey, and I put all my effort into it. I choose to keep growing in my career.”

1st Degree

Marissa Devine

“My Black Belt journey started in September 2022. I was 34, working full time, and a mother of three. I loved Get Fit kickboxing so much I wanted a new challenge. My husband had just finished his Black Belt journey, and my kids were taking classes at Zentai too. Coach Byron suggested I try Martial Arts, and I loved it, it also showed my daughters that women can juggle work and kids and still get stronger. Martial Arts taught me discipline. If I missed a class, the next one was even more challenging, especially at my age. It's easy to make excuses, but the only one who loses is yourself. Thank you to my instructors, my husband for taking over bedtime routines completely by himself with the kids, and my kids for giving me the time to better myself. This black belt means pushing past what you think you can do, showing up when you don't feel like you can, and always trying to become better.”

1st Degree

Mateo Ramos

“I started Zentai at 7, and I've been training for 5 years. Before Zentai, I was full of energy, always sidetracked, never listened, and just wanted to have fun. The lesson that's stuck with me is perseverance, I leaned on it every time I wanted to quit, and I always remembered never to give up. About a year ago I wanted to quit because I wasn't seeing any growth. Multiple bad sparring days in a row, and I didn't feel like myself. But after those days I'd always come home and talk to my parents, or just want to be left alone. The hard times shape us into better people. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for never letting me give up, and for never once questioning whether there was food waiting when I got home. You guys are the reason this is happening. Thank you, Gia, for helping me with combos on the days I didn't go, and for always having my back when things weren't going well. I did this for you guys, this belt is yours too. This black belt is proof that I never stop when things get hard.”

1st Degree

Matthias Lameda

“I first started at 6, during summer camp, but I never signed up. I wasn't too interested in martial arts until I tried it in the after-school program, where I got a real idea of what it would be like. Eventually I ended up liking it and learned a lot from the small classes. After getting my yellow belt, I signed up. Once I got near my brown belt, I wanted to quit, I wasn't satisfied with what I could actually use, and didn't want to just learn it for show. It was only after I joined Combat Club that I found out why I was really training. I found a whole new level of martial arts I wasn't aware of, so different from the regular classes. From there, I've trained to defend myself and protect the people I care for. Getting this black belt means I can finally be seen as a role model, and I get to keep learning until I feel satisfied with what I've accomplished. Thanks to my family for their support and always believing in me.”

1st Degree

Rebecca Morales

“I joined Zentai in 2021, at 7, and have trained for 5 years. As a white belt I was very shy, I didn't know the student creed yet, picking partners was hard, and going to class made me nervous. A value that's stuck with me is being a leader, since karate teaches you to be part of a team. Outside the dojo, I've become more patient, and helping others has gotten easier. I've become more outgoing, though I still have social skills to work on. The time I wanted to quit was when I sprained my ankle. I was so angry I just wanted to sit and be mad at myself. I kept going because I knew I wouldn't get closer to becoming a black belt by sitting there waiting. Thank you to my father, Jaime, for showing me karate can be fun. To my mother, Ana, for paying for my classes and gear, without her I couldn't have gone. To Coach Caiden for pushing me to my limit; without him I wouldn't have learned all I know, I'll always look up to him. Black belt means the work I've done didn't go to waste, and it'll help me remember the people I've met at Zentai, I've made so many friends, and I'm glad I got to meet them.”

1st Degree

Ribal Aljanadi

“I've been going to Zentai Martial Arts since I was seven. I was nervous about meeting new people at first, but my parents made me go, and I'm glad they did. After a while, I felt more comfortable and started looking forward to practicing with my instructors and friends. Classes taught me to stay focused, improve as a person, and become more comfortable trying new things. Zentai has helped me grow physically, stronger, more flexible, with better balance and coordination, and mentally, teaching me to concentrate, stay calm, and keep working when things are hard. Most importantly, it taught me I can't give up, no matter what challenges I face. Thank you to my mom and dad for taking me to practice and supporting me. Thank you to Nina, Leen, and Jad for always being there for me. Master Caleb always helps me improve my techniques, and Ransel has been there throughout my entire journey.”

1st Degree

Rudra Patel

“I started training at 12, and I've been part of the Zentai family for 4 years. I was shy and skeptical, but willing to try new things. Martial arts taught me leadership and how to adapt. Last year I became a high school executive officer for the medical program, and a firefighter too, motivation drove me there, but I can't forget where that motivation came from. My journey wasn't a smooth road. Last year I struggled academically and missed a lot of classes, to the point I wanted to quit. But reminders from my coaches that black belt testing was coming kept me going. I got my grades back up and earned one of the highest GPAs in my year, which gave me the energy to get back on the mat. A black belt isn't just the final belt, it's a reflection of your past self, showing how far you've grown. Thank you to my parents for driving me to class and pushing me not to give up. Thank you to Master Caleb for his inspiring words. Most importantly, thank you to the Zentai family, without you, I would've stayed the same kid I was 4 years ago.”

1st Degree

Yanelys Barba

“I started martial arts at 12 years old, having no idea how deeply it would shape who I am. Martial arts taught me to believe in myself, push beyond my limits, and keep going when things get hard. Today, I get to give those lessons to the kids I teach, and nothing is more special than watching a child realize how capable they truly are. There were moments I wanted to quit, but the people who believed in me and the kids who began looking up to me gave me something bigger than myself to keep going for. Thank you to my mom and dad for always showing up and supporting me; Master Allen and Ms. Naomy for believing in me and giving me opportunities to grow; Ms. Sol for her endless compassion and guidance; and my team for always pushing me to be better. Most importantly, to my students and parents: thank you for trusting me. You teach me more than you know, and getting to grow alongside your children is one of the greatest privileges of my life.”

1st Degree

Zen Pathak

“I was 3½ when I first stepped into the Zentai dojo. For 10 years I've grown from a shy kid afraid to step on the mat to a confident black belt. I moved houses twice and trained at three Zentai locations, but perseverance kept me pushing toward my goal. Being a martial artist means modesty, courtesy, and self-control, qualities Zentai taught me, especially in sparring, bringing me closer to the Indomitable Spirit. In the days before my black belt test, nonstop sparring and getting kicked in the face made me want to quit. But I wanted that black belt too much, and I pushed through. Thank you to my parents for bringing me here, my coaches and Masters for teaching me to push through the hits, and my friend Slater for always making me a better fighter. The black belt symbolizes 10+ years of hard work and perseverance. Hard work pays off, we never give up. Zentai improved my agility and stamina, taught me perseverance and patience, and turned me from too scared to step on the mat into a confident speaker. I can't thank my Masters, Coaches, and support staff enough for who I've become.”

Junior Black Belt

Dominic DeRosa

“Like every person who does martial arts, I started as a white belt at 3. When I joined Zentai in 2020 during COVID, I was very shy, almost never on the mat. Martial arts taught me to be courageous, and I went from never on the mat to always on the mat. On my first day of Kindergarten, I was scared to go in without my parents, but that courage helped me stay strong all day. Zentai taught me to never give up, even when it's hard. The hardest part of my career was testing for my red belt, the day that made me want to quit. While most people would've given up, I looked to my coaches and realized that to be a black belt, I had to push through. I've never really liked sparring, but I look up to my coaches, parents, idols, and Master Allen. Thank you to my family, my mom, dad, and grandparents and to my coaches: Coach Caiden, Coach Francesco, Coach Yany, Coach Mayte, Ms. Sol, Ms. Naomi, and especially Master Allen. This black belt means everything to me, blood, sweat, and tears, and a reminder of the perseverance I've shown.”

Junior Black Belt

Thomas Harris

“Zentai gave me a place to keep learning during COVID, when everything was shut down and both my parents worked, somewhere to develop martial arts skills, do remote schooling, and stay accountable physically and mentally. I used to be less coordinated and lacked focus; Zentai improved both. I needed occupational therapy for gross motor skills at school, and Zentai helped enough that I no longer need it. It also helped with perseverance, when I failed a second belt promotion exam, I wanted to quit. I felt demotivated, like I was stuck. But knowing my coaches still believed in me kept me going. When I finally passed, I was proud, it showed me I had to keep pushing through hard things. My parents kept me going even when I wanted to quit. All the coaches were kind and helpful, especially Coach Byron and Coach Caiden, who helped me develop discipline, mental strength, and physical skills. This black belt is a symbol of how far I've come.”