Daniel Matthew :
Bidita Rahman, a Bangladeshi-American scholar, writer, activist, and community member, has earned a 1st-degree Taekwondo Black Belt from United Taekwondo and the World Taekwondo Federation, marking a milestone celebrated as both a personal achievement and an inspiration for the wider community.
Rahman is being recognized as the first adult Muslim Bangladeshi woman in the United States to earn a 1st-degree Taekwondo Black Belt through United Taekwondo and the World Taekwondo Federation. Her achievement reflects years of discipline, sacrifice, and determination in a demanding martial arts journey.
Beyond Taekwondo, Rahman is known for her academic and literary work. She has authored 10 bilingual books and 13 research articles, which have received 100 citations. As a PhD fellow, family member, activist, and community participant, she has balanced multiple responsibilities while continuing her training.
Reflecting on her journey, Rahman said, “I am highly grateful to Allah; He made this happen. Without His will and allowance, I may not have been able to come along this journey.” She described facing pain, injury, anxiety, pressure, humiliation, fear, stress, discomfort, and disappointment, but also gaining discipline, courage, confidence, patience, control, and the ability to face challenges.
Her message carried particular significance for women. “Sometimes, women need to stand up on their own and not wait for external motivation,” Rahman said. “Nobody will save or protect you, so it is essential to stand on your own to face real-world challenges.”
Rahman credited her masters and instructors for their support, saying their effort and patience were invaluable. She also noted that martial arts helped her strengthen both body and mind, improving fitness, flexibility, coordination, confidence, and emotional balance.
Her achievement also highlights the broader value of martial arts. For children, training can teach focus, discipline, self-control, and self-defense against bullying. For adults, it can support physical health, stress relief, and mental clarity. For seniors, low-impact martial arts can help improve balance, bone strength, coordination, and confidence.
Rahman’s black belt milestone stands as a powerful example of perseverance. It reflects not only athletic accomplishment, but also faith, self-growth, and the importance of building strength from within.
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