About Us
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Welcome to World Karate-Do!
You have found the right place for you and your family to experience the way of martial arts. World Karate-Do offers a wide range of classes for pre-school kids, elementary children, teens, and adults. Founded by Bushi Tensei (GrandMaster), Nathan Ray our programs include everything from beginner martial arts to advanced Black Belt training, leadership development, and instructor certification.
In our renowned youth programs, children engage with a curriculum that builds self-esteem, enhances personal discipline, improves fitness, and teaches essential safety skills. Our classes are taught by full-time professionals who have undergone extensive training and thorough background checks, ensuring the highest level of instruction.
For our adult and teen students, whether your goal is to lose weight, get in shape, complement other sports, or commit to personal safety, we provide a high-energy, supportive environment to help you achieve your goals.
Located in the heart of Knightdale, our central dojo is ready to welcome you into our community and guide you on your martial arts journey!
Instructor/Owner Nathan Ray
World Karate-Do was founded by Bushi Tensei Nathan Ray, 10th Degree Black Belt and Grandmaster Instructor—recognized as one of the nation’s leading martial arts instructors and a lifelong leader in character development and personal transformation.
A two-time world karate champion, international best-selling author, certified international speaker, and award-winning actor, Bushi Tensei Nathan Ray’s influence extends far beyond the dojo. He is the founder of World Karate-Do, which has proudly served the Knightdale community for over 40 years as its first professional martial arts school, dedicated to developing leaders and building strong character in students of all ages.
Bushi Tensei Nathan Ray has been honored as Grandmaster of the Year by the Action Martial Arts Hall of Honors and is a two-time inductee into the American Martial Arts Alliance Hall of Fame. He is also a certified Universal Laws Life Coach and a certified Goal-Setting and Time Management Life Coach, bringing a holistic approach to personal growth and mastery.
Under his leadership, World Karate-Do has been recognized as one of the Top 20 martial arts schools in the world, reflecting a standard of excellence that has been maintained for decades.
Through his innovative approach to martial arts and mind development, Bushi Tensei Nathan Ray continues to impact lives by combining physical training with leadership, discipline, and the mastery of mindset—helping students become their very best both on and off the mat.
Meet Our World-Class Instructors
Dr. Leah
Program Director
Shihan Dr. Leah is a distinguished 8th-degree black belt in Shisei Ryu Karate-Do, a rising Shodan in Wanomichi (Aikido), and one of the highest-ranking female martial artists in the world. Throughout her lifelong training, she has had the rare honor of practicing among elite martial artists and learning directly from several of the founding fathers of the martial arts—an experience that grounds her deep commitment to tradition, discipline, and excellence. She has also been widely recognized as a leader and trailblazer for women in sports, inspiring the next generation of female martial artists to rise with confidence and purpose.
Sensei Zion
Instructor
Zion is a 24-year-old martial artist with over two decades of dedicated karate training. He began his journey at the age of three, developing advanced skills in both empty-hand techniques and traditional weapons. His long-term commitment to the art has instilled in him a deep foundation of discipline, focus, and technical mastery. Karate has shaped not only his physical abilities but also his overall mindset and approach to life.
Dr. Hassiem Kambui
Chief Instructor
Sensei Hassiem Kambui, Ph.D.
4th Degree Black Belt, Shisei-ryu Karate-Do
Head Instructor, World Karate-Do Tallahassee
Sensei Dr. Hassiem Kambui began his martial arts journey in 2001 as a college student seeking personal growth and guidance. Struggling with anger at the time, he was encouraged to seek the wisdom of Grandmaster Bushi Tensei Nathan Ray. Grateful that Bushi Tensei Ray accepted him as a student, Dr. Kambui has remained a devoted practitioner and lifelong learner under his mentorship.
Why Choose World Karate-Do ?
40 Years of Service
With over 40 years of dedicated service to the Knightdale community, our method at World Karate-Do has been tested, proven, and refined through generations of students. What began as a foundation of strong martial arts principles has continued to evolve, integrating leadership, mindset, and personal development at the highest level. Today, we stand committed not only to preserving tradition, but to producing confident, disciplined, and purpose-driven leaders who make a positive impact in our community—and far beyond.
We Care—Delivering an Experience You Deserve, Built to Last a Lifetime.
At World Karate-Do, we don’t just teach martial arts—we deliver a World class experience unlike anything you’ve seen before. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll encounter the highest standards of care, attention, and professionalism—true white-glove service. Every detail is intentional, every interaction is purposeful, and every student develops unbreakable discipline, rock-solid confidence, and world-class leadership. If you’re seeking a program that operates at the pinnacle of excellence and transforms lives—you’ve found it.