Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin Baker.
Hi Kevin, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Ignite Taekwondo began long before it had a formal name or a permanent home. It started as a simple after-school elective taught inside daycares and summer camps. Back then, the program was called Street Ninja Karate, and its purpose was to introduce children to martial arts in a fun, accessible way. What began as a small offering quickly grew into something much larger as students—and their families—began to connect deeply with the lessons, structure, and encouragement the program provided.
As interest grew, it became clear that the students needed a dedicated space to train, learn, and thrive. That opportunity arrived when the city of Lauderhill’s Parks Department opened its doors, giving the program its first permanent home. With a consistent training space, the school flourished even more, and the vision for its future became clearer.
After nearly three years, it was evident that the program had outgrown its playful original name. The training had matured, the students had evolved, and the mission had expanded far beyond the early days of after-school classes. As the instructor and owner, I felt a personal conviction to build something meaningful—something that focused not just on kicking and punching, but on shaping character in today’s youth. Courtesy, Integrity, indomitable Spirit, perseverance, and self control became the pillars of our teaching.
This transformation inspired a new identity: Ignite Taekwondo. A name that reflects our purpose—to spark growth, character, and potential within every student who steps onto the mat.
From humble beginnings in daycares to a thriving community center dojang, the journey continues with the same passion: helping young people become stronger, kinder, and more confident, one class at a time.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The goal was always the same but the methods changed. I first thought of teaching outdoors at public parks unaffiliated, but the Florida weather would make classes inconsistent. I then emailed all surrounding parks for opportunity to teach inside, but had no response for a time. I then thought to sign a lease and open a traditional school. Before I signed I saw myself potentially getting trapped by the pitfalls of the business where it became less about the students, and more about the money. It was around this time that I received a response from the city to operate a permanent program at the community center. I started in the fall of 2022 with a misaligned class schedule. For 2 months very few came in the door. I paused the program for the holidays relaunched in 2023 with a single Saturday class. We got some traction and have never had an empty class again.
We’ve been impressed with Ignite Taekwondo, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Ignite Taekwondo is a martial art school located at the Inverrary Community Center behind City Hall. We meet every Tuesday and Thursday night from 6:30-7:30pm.
The school focuses on taekwondo as a sport and structures the program toward competition. The four areas of learning are: sparring, forms, self defense, and character building.
It is because of out smaller size we are able to engage more with students and provide faster feedback. Students don’t get lost in the herd.
I named the program Ignite, because it symbolizes passion and energy. Fire has a destructive and create quality to it. Just as fire needs to be harnessed and focused to build and create so do we need to be focused. Energy unfocused is chaotic and brings destruction. The dragon and phoneix represent the harmony of both destructive and creative qualities. Destroy the old and be born into the new. This is discipline.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
My wife and I are youth directors at our church. Leader are readers, so I like to set a goal of reading 2o books a year.
Pricing:
- $75 – Registration
- $75 – Tuition
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ignitetaekwondo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignitetkd1/
Image Credits
Simona Solomon
