Lina Khalifeh, a passionate advocate for women's empowerment, has made a profound impact through her efforts in Jordan. She founded SheFighter, the first self-defense studio for women in the Middle East, designed to help women defend themselves against violence. Growing up, Lina witnessed domestic violence among her friends and family, which sparked her desire to protect and empower women. Her motivation solidified when a close friend experienced physical abuse, pushing Lina to take action. With a background in Taekwondo and martial arts, she channeled her skills to train women to defend themselves, ultimately launching SheFighter in 2012.


SheFighter started with modest beginnings but quickly gained momentum as Lina's mission resonated with countless women across the region. The studio's goal was to teach women physical defense and restore their confidence and sense of self-worth. By fostering mental and physical strength, SheFighter became a safe space for women to heal, build resilience, and take control of their lives.


The impact of Lina’s work has been tremendous. Since its inception, SheFighter has trained over 25,000 women across 35 countries. These women come from diverse backgrounds, including survivors of domestic violence, refugees, and students. Lina’s work extends beyond the borders of Jordan; she has partnered with organizations such as the United Nations to offer training to women in refugee camps, ensuring that even the most vulnerable populations have access to tools for self-defense and empowerment.


Lina’s holistic approach to women's empowerment is based on the belief that it involves more than just physical protection; it is about changing societal perceptions, creating new narratives, and fostering environments where women are respected and valued. This belief has propelled her to advocate globally, speaking at international conferences and working with various NGOs to expand her reach.


Her future vision is ambitious. Lina aims to continue expanding SheFighter by establishing more self-defense studios around the world, especially in areas where women are most vulnerable to violence. She is also working on digital platforms to extend her teachings through online courses, making her self-defense programs accessible to more women worldwide. Lina is determined to keep fighting until every woman can feel safe, confident, and empowered.


Lina Khalifeh's story is a testament to the power of personal passion driving change. Her journey from witnessing violence to actively combating it shows how one person's commitment can positively impact thousands of lives. Her efforts serve as an inspiration, reminding everyone that change begins with the courage to stand up for what’s right, no matter the challenges.


Inspired by Lina Khalifeh's work, here are ten practical and straightforward ways you can adopt to create positive change in your community, regardless of your economic status:

1. Start Conversations About Safety: Raise awareness about personal safety by having open discussions with friends, family, or neighbors. Knowledge empowers people to take action.

2. Offer Emotional Support: Listen to someone who is going through tough times. Just knowing someone cares can make a big difference.

3. Teach Basic Self-Defense Techniques: Learn simple self-defense moves online and teach them to people around you. Knowledge shared is empowerment given.

4. Create Safe Spaces: Organize community gatherings where women or other vulnerable groups can come together, share experiences, and support one another.

5. Advocate for Respect: Promote respect and equality in conversations and interactions. Model respectful behavior towards others and encourage it in your community.

6. Be an Upstander: Stand up against any harassment or abuse you witness in your community. Sometimes, just speaking up can help protect someone.

7. Mentor Youth: Take time to guide and mentor young girls and boys in your neighborhood, encouraging them to be confident and respectful.

8. Form a Support Group: Bring people together who have experienced similar challenges, whether violence, discrimination, or any other issue. Support groups offer strength in numbers.

9. Use Social Media for Good: Share positive and empowering messages online, spreading awareness about self-defense, women’s rights, and safety.

10. Lead by Example: Show kindness, confidence, and respect in everyday actions. Your behavior will inspire others to act the same way.


These steps are simple, yet they can spark significant change. Even without financial resources, each action has the power to uplift and protect those in the community, building an environment of safety and empowerment.


Photo Credit: Leticia Pelissari on Unsplash.