We enrolled our daughter with Jess at Arise Self-Defense to help her gain confidence as she starts to gain more independence. The classes are very welcoming and our daughter had a lot of fun. I was surprised by the skills she developed and how strong she was when I partnered up with her at the open house!!

I’ve had the opportunity to work with Jess in a self-defense setting, and I can confidently say she is an exceptional instructor and an even better human being.Jess brings a calm, grounded, and supportive presence to her teaching. She has a natural ability to make people feel safe and comfortable, even when working through topics and skills that can feel vulnerable or challenging. Her approach is thoughtful, empowering, and rooted in genuine care for the people she’s working with.She is incredibly knowledgeable and deeply passionate about this work, which comes through in how she connects with others and builds confidence in those around her.I would highly recommend working with Jess to anyone interested in learning self-defense in a way that feels empowering, respectful, and accessible.

I've had a great experience at Arise. It's a safe space and the classes are so fun. I felt so empowered that I learned the guard position variations (the closed one is my favorite) in my very first class. Jess and Janna are very welcoming and knowledgeable, you can see they love what they do. I'm really excited for the next classes.

I highly recommend this self-defense course for all women and teenage girls. It’s always good to be prepared and know your options when you are in hostile situations. Jess and her team bring various scenarios to the class and will tell you on how to avoid a risky situation in advance or in the worst case what’s the best move to help yourself to get out of a dangerous situation. I have been attending the class with my teenage daughter and we both find it very helpful to have these skills and learn how to stay focused when under stress. One fun fact about Jess’s class is that you don’t have to attend them back-to-back, so you use your tickets as your time permits. 😊

I had a a positive experience at my first class. It was well structured and engaging. Jess lead the class in a clear and supportive manner. She and her assistant were really good at meeting each student where they are at inside the group and keeping it at a level that was motivatingly challenging but doable.

We had such a wonderful and positive experience at our school workshop! Students really enjoyed it and gained some great safety skills they can apply through life.

As part of our school club dedicated to promoting female athletes and encouraging girls to engage in physical fitness, Women in Sports had the privilege of participating in a self-defence workshop led by Jess. She created a welcoming and supportive environment while delivering clear, practical instruction that equipped our members with essential skills for personal safety. Jess’s professionalism and engaging teaching style ensured that every participant felt included and challenged. As a result of this workshop, students left feeling more confident, capable, and empowered. We are sincerely grateful for her time, expertise, and commitment to supporting young women.

I've taken a few of these classes and have found every one to be inspiring and deeply worthwhile. Jess is a fantastic teacher and facilitator, and the community is so welcoming. I leave feeling empowered and part of a true community of care.

It was fun and interactive and included many games testing your skills. As well it was a good opportunity to meet new people and have meaningful conversations with them. It feels like we built a community.

Jess is so nice! and help to me and my friends with this special self defense classes.The place is great and the atmosphere is awesome 👌.Thanks! Now I feel more powerful!