A KIND-hearted Kidderminster karate sensei has been awarded a BEM.
Justin Thomas, founder and Senior Instructor of Young Gloves Karate in Kidderminster, was named in the King’s New Year’s Honours list for his outstanding services to the community, youth development, and charitable work.
Justin has also raised over £85,000 for children’s charities through fundraisers such as taking on the Three Peaks Challenge and several half marathons.
He has also established disability-friendly karate groups, held martial arts sessions for children with Leukaemia and worked with West Midlands Police to promote knife awareness.
Justin said: “I am truly humbled and honoured.
“This award recognises not just my efforts, but the dedication of every student, volunteer, family member, and instructor who has been part of the journey.
“I am incredibly proud to be part of Young Gloves Karate and the community we have built together.”
Justin’s martial arts journey began in the early 1980s with judo at Abbey Judo Club in Erdington.
He later trained in Wado Ryu karate under Sensei Eugine Codrington, a six-time world champion, and learned from visiting legends including Sensei Enoeda, Sensei Sakagami, and Frank Brennan.
In 1999, he established Young Gloves Karate and has since progressed through both full-contact and traditional karate.
Justin added he plans to expand inclusive programmes, mentor future martial artists, continue his charitable fundraising, and further promote discipline, respect, and service through martial arts.
Justin is among five people across Worcestershire who have been awarded a BEM in the latest honours list.
There has also been one CBE, one OBE, and four MBEs handed out to deserving people across the county.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Beatrice Grant, said: “I am so pleased to see that eleven members of our community have been recognised for their achievements in public life and for their exceptional commitment to helping others.
“I would like to send my heartfelt congratulations and thank them all for their contribution to society and to our county.”
