Kyoto Chief Instructor Celebrated at Awards Evening
Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo was honoured to be represented at the BBC Radio Bristol Make a Difference Awards 2025, where Chief Instructor, Sensei Steve Ashby, attended as a finalist in the Active Award category.
An Evening to Remember
Held at the Bristol Harbour Hotel on Friday 26th September, the evening brought together individuals and organisations from across the region — all recognised for the positive impact they make within their communities.
The event was hosted by BBC Radio Bristol, celebrating stories of dedication, resilience, and community spirit.
It was, above all, a humbling experience.
Listening to the stories of fellow finalists — both on the night and in the lead-up broadcasts — highlighted the incredible work being carried out across Bristol and beyond.
A Wider Community
While Kyoto was represented through the Active Award category, the evening made it clear that this recognition sits within something much bigger:
- Volunteers supporting vulnerable people
- Individuals going above and beyond for their communities
- Grassroots initiatives making lasting change
These stories were also featured in a BBC News roundup of the event:
👉 BBC News Article
Representing Kyoto
Being selected as a finalist was a proud moment — but one that reflects the collective effort behind Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo.
The dojo continues to focus on:
- Encouraging people of all ages to become more active
- Building confidence, discipline, and resilience
- Creating a supportive and inclusive training environment
- Developing long-term habits through structured karate practice
This recognition is not just about one individual — it represents the entire Kyoto community.
Media Coverage
In addition to the awards evening, finalists were featured across BBC platforms, including:
- Radio broadcasts on BBC Radio Bristol
- Coverage on the Proper Bristol Breakfast Show
- Online features and social media
🎧 Listen back here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002jr7w
A Moment to Reflect
Events like this provide an opportunity to pause and reflect.
Karate, at its core, is about continuous improvement — not just physically, but as individuals and as part of a wider community.
The awards evening reinforced something simple:
There are many people making a difference — and it matters.
Thank You
Thank you to BBC Radio Bristol for recognising and celebrating community work across the region.
And thank you to everyone connected to Kyoto — past and present — who continues to contribute to what the dojo represents.
Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo
Bristol (BS11)
🌐 www.kyotokaratebristol.co.uk
📸 Instagram: @kyotokarate
📘 Facebook: /KyotoShotokanKarateClub