Keri Murrell 2nd dan
Sensei Keri began her karate journey in 2002 at the age of six, training with SAMA Karate — a style blending Shotokan and Wado Ryu, alongside kobudo (weapons). The organisation was founded in 1978 by Hanshi Alan Gibson (9th Dan), who trained under Wado master Sensei Tatsuo Suzuki. What started as something fun quickly became a lifeline. While school was a difficult place to fit in, the dojo became Keri’s safe space — a place of belonging, strength, and compassion.
After moving to Jersey in 2023 for a role at Jersey Zoo, Keri discovered Jersey Wado Ryu mid-crossing on the boat over. She contacted Chief Instructor Ryan Lambotte and began training the very next day. Her deep experience and passion for nurturing young students quickly made her an integral part of the club. She now leads the junior instructor team and also serves as the club’s Safeguarding Officer, ensuring all members train in a safe and supportive environment.
In the UK, Keri regularly assisted in teaching — especially with junior grades — while maintaining her own training at least four times a week. She brings that same commitment and compassion to Jersey Wado Ryu, where her calm and encouraging presence helps younger students build both skill and confidence.
Outside the dojo, Keri works as a Conservation Learning Officer at Jersey Zoo, combining her love for animals, education, and the natural world. Having faced mental health challenges herself, she volunteers with Mind as a peer mentor and supports the club’s Martial Mental Awareness campaign — advocating for the mental health benefits of karate and creating safe spaces for others, just as karate once did for her.