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SLAA attends IAF summit in Tokyo

  • Neville Kroon
  • Oct 8, 2024
  • 4 min read

Updated: Sep 29

Aikido demonstration at the IAF Summit
Aikido demonstration at the IAF Summit

Senior Members of the Sri Lanka Aikido Association - Sri Lanka Aikikai, Senseis Ajith Goonetilleka, Mahesh Mannapperuma, Thilanka Liyanage, and Kushan Kulatunga, etched a new chapter in the journey of the SLAA-SLA by attending the prestigious 14th International Aikido Federation (IAF) Summit and training seminar held in Tokyo, Japan, from 30th September to 6th October 2024. Known as one of the most significant global events in the Aikido Calendar, the summit brings together practitioners from across the globe to celebrate the art's philosophy, skill, and camaraderie, allowing practitioners and leaders from various federations to share knowledge, techniques, and innovations. It was a rare opportunity for attendees to deepen their understanding of Aikido while celebrating its global growth.


 Sri Lanka delegation with Doshu Moriteru Ueshiba
Sri Lanka delegation with Doshu Moriteru Ueshiba

Held amidst the culturally vibrant backdrop of Tokyo, this year's summit featured world-class training sessions led by revered Aikido Senseis, as well as discussions on the evolving role of Aikido in modern society. Participants had the rare opportunity to practice alongside seasoned exponents of the Art, refining their techniques and gaining invaluable insights into the discipline's core principles of harmony and self-improvement. The summit offered a platform for discussion and collaboration. This turned out to be an unique opportunity for senior Aikidoka to discuss how to advance Aikido in their respective countries, aiming to enhance the practice and appreciation of this beautiful martial art.


Ajith Goonetilleka and Mahesh Mannapperuma with the Hombu Dojo-cho Ueshiba Mitsuteru
Ajith Goonetilleka and Mahesh Mannapperuma with the Hombu Dojo-cho Ueshiba Mitsuteru

The Importance of the IAF Summit


The IAF Summit is a key date on the Aikido calendar. It allows participants to engage in discussions about the philosophy and techniques of Aikido. For SLAA, it was an opportunity to connect with practitioners worldwide, learn best practices, and share the unique experiences from Sri Lanka.


This summit reinforced SLAA's commitment to promoting Aikido's values in Sri Lanka. The aim is to encourage peace and understanding through martial arts, emphasizing personal growth and community building.




Highlights from the Summit


The summit featured renowned instructors who hosted a variety of seminars and workshops. Topics included advanced Aikido techniques, effective teaching strategies, and the application of Aikido principles in everyday scenarios.


Mahesh Mannapperuma with Christian Tessier Shihan
Mahesh Mannapperuma with Christian Tessier Shihan

One notable demonstration showcased different Aikido styles from various regions, highlighting the diversity within Aikido's practice. This variety is evident in the adaptability of the art; for instance, practitioners in South Africa emphasize self-defense techniques, while those in Japan focus on spiritual development through practice.










Sri Lanka delogation with Miyamoto Shihan
Sri Lanka delogation with Miyamoto Shihan

Representing our Association with great pride, the senior members immersed themselves in this unique experience. They showcased their dedication, learning under the guidance of top masters while fostering connections with fellow practitioners from diverse cultures, across the globe, ranging from the Americas, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, as well as Asian and the Soviet bloc. Their journey was not only a testament to their commitment to Aikido but also a beacon of inspiration for the younger generation of the Association.


Collaboration was a recurring theme, with participants exchanging ideas and developing plans to grow Aikido in their countries. It was heartening to see a strong sense of community among practitioners, reinforcing the values of mutual respect and support.


Networking Opportunities


Thilanka Liyanage and Mahesh Mannapperuma with the Kenyan delogation
Thilanka Liyanage and Mahesh Mannapperuma with the Kenyan delogation

The summit fostered networking possibilities among delegates from numerous countries. SLAA members engaged in meaningful conversations with their international counterparts. They exchanged insights on different training regimens and how various organizations operate.


For example, delegates learned about a successful youth program in Germany that attracts over 200 young practitioners annually, emphasizing physical fitness alongside Aikido training. Insights like these can help SLAA enhance its approach to attract and retain students in Sri Lanka.


Adapting Learnings to Sri Lanka


SLAA attendees returned with a wealth of knowledge, eager to implement their learnings back home. Workshops focused on youth engagement are particularly relevant, as they can help sustain interest in Aikido as a martial art.


Speaking on their return, Sensei Ajith Goonetilleke shared, “The summit was more than just a training session. It was a celebration of Aikido's spirit and a reminder of why we dedicate ourselves to this art. Bringing these lessons back to Sri Lanka is a privilege we deeply cherish, and we look forward to having more and more interactions with the global Aikido community in the future.”


Future Plans for SLAA


SLAA plans to implement new strategies to appeal to younger audiences. For example, incorporating team-building activities into training sessions can make practices more enjoyable and effective. These approaches can also foster values leading to personal growth and development among practitioners.


Post-summit, SLAA aims to organize events reflecting its mission to promote Aikido throughout Sri Lanka. Planned activities include training camps, seminars, and partnerships with other martial arts organizations.


Senior Senseis Ajith Goonetilleke and Mahesh Mannapperuma with IAF President Sensei Yoko Okamoto
Senior Senseis Ajith Goonetilleke and Mahesh Mannapperuma with IAF President Sensei Yoko Okamoto

SLAA envisions increasing Aikido's visibility across the nation, drawing participants from diverse backgrounds. The goal is to grow membership through innovative training programs and community outreach initiatives. For instance, SLAA is considering holding open demonstrations in public venues to attract new learners.


Final Thoughts


The 14th International Aikido Federation Summit in Tokyo was more than an event; it was a celebration of unity, knowledge sharing, and the spirit of Aikido. Participants from SLAA returned enriched by their experiences and connections made with the global Aikido community.


Looking ahead, the insights gained and relationships fostered at the summit will influence SLAA’s future endeavors. Guided by Aikido's principles, SLAA remains dedicated to promoting harmony, peace, and personal growth through this beautiful martial art.


The journey continues, and the lessons from Tokyo will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of Aikido practitioners in Sri Lanka.

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