In a time when personal safety has become a growing concern for families, professionals, and community members alike, the Atlantic Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation is taking action. On Saturday, April 25, residents of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, will have the unique opportunity to learn essential defensive tactics and personal safety skills from one of the world’s leading experts—Grandmaster John St. James, a 9th-degree Black Belt, best-selling author, and internationally recognized leadership coach.

The Defensive Tactics & Personal Safety Seminar will be held from 3:00 to 4:00 PM at Hattiesburg High School’s H.W. Buddy Watkins Gymnasium (301 North Hutchinson Ave). Registration begins at 2:30 PM at the gym entrance, with a special promotional fee of $20 per participant (cash only)—a 70% discount off the regular $75 registration cost. All proceeds directly support the Foundation’s outreach programs for at-risk youth in the Hattiesburg area.

A Community-Driven Mission

The seminar is part of the Atlantic Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation’s Community Safety Outreach and Fundraising Initiative, designed to raise $15,000 by year’s end. The program unites martial arts schools and community partners nationwide in hosting Defensive Tactics Workshops (DTW) and similar events that strengthen both personal safety awareness and community ties.

Each event not only empowers participants with real-world safety tools but also contributes financially to programs that help young people “learn, grow, share, serve, lead, and inspire.” According to Foundation founder and CEO Grandmaster J. John St. James, this effort reflects the true spirit of the Moo Do philosophy—discipline, respect, and service through action.

What Participants Will Learn

The one-hour event is designed to provide practical safety strategies that anyone can apply immediately, regardless of experience level. Key learning topics include:

  • Situational awareness and threat recognition

  • Preventative safety strategies to avoid danger

  • A personal safety mindset for everyday confidence

  • Basic, easy-to-learn defensive tactics

  • Managing emotions and responding effectively under pressure

Grandmaster St. James, who has trained thousands worldwide—including law enforcement agencies, women’s safety groups, real estate professionals, and even the Royal Dutch Marines—is known for his empowering, motivational teaching style that blends practical instruction with personal growth.

Who Should Attend

This seminar is ideal for anyone who interacts regularly with the public, including:

  • Business owners and service industry professionals

  • Educators, administrators, and students

  • Real estate and property management professionals

  • Security personnel

  • Parents, women’s groups, and senior citizens

Building a Safer, More Confident Community

The core message behind the campaign—“How Much Is Your Life Worth?”—challenges individuals to take ownership of their personal safety as an essential life skill. Beyond self-defense, the session encourages a mindset of awareness, empowerment, and preparedness, rooted in the belief that prevention and confidence are the first lines of defense.

Participants’ contributions through this $20 seminar help expand the Foundation’s leadership and safety programs, ensuring more young people across the region gain access to mentoring, life skills, and character development opportunities.

Event Details at a Glance

Event: Defensive Tactics & Personal Safety Seminar
Date: Saturday, April 25
Time: 3:00 – 4:00 PM (Registration opens at 2:30 PM)
Location: Hattiesburg High School – H.W. Buddy Watkins Gymnasium
Address: 301 North Hutchinson Ave, Hattiesburg, MS
Registration Fee: $20 per participant (Cash only at the door)
Host: Atlantic Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation (501(c)(3) nonprofit)
Beneficiary: At-risk youth leadership and safety programs

Space is limited, and early arrival is encouraged. Interested participants can pre-register or learn more through the Foundation’s outreach links and local partners.

For more information, contact the Atlantic Pacific Tang Soo Do Foundation or visit the local event listing on Eventbrite, Facebook Events, or VisitHattiesburg.com.