DILLON PINKHAM
Status:
Instructor Development Candidate
Training Circle:
Hana Center Martial Arts and Yoga
Location:
Lewiston, NY
Focus Areas:
• Personal Readiness
• Accessible Training Without Barriers
• Community Strength Through Martial Arts
• Developing Leadership in Youth
• Patient, Purposeful Mentorship
Contact:
Training Journey:
• Training in martial arts since 2003, Dillon’s path has been shaped by multiple disciplines, but it is Pekiti Tirsia Kali that grounds his teaching today. He has earned instructor rank in Kenpo Karate, Judo, and Jiu Jitsu, and integrates these skills into his practice of Filipino Martial Arts.
• From 2010–2020, Dillon served in the U.S. Air Force, completing two overseas tours and concluded his service as a Technical Sergeant. His military experience reinforced the values of discipline, adaptability, and realism that now inform his martial arts instruction. Drawing on these influences, Dillon created Muliwai Defensive Arts, a system that represents the personal expression of his martial journey and the principles that continue to shape his teaching.
Teaching Philosophy:
• Dillon teaches with the conviction that Filipino martial tradition provides the foundation for real world effectiveness. He emphasizes realism, adaptability, and student growth, believing that training must prepare people for genuine threats while building confidence and competence. His philosophy is rooted in the idea that every student has the potential to become a leader when given structure, discipline, and purposeful guidance.
Community Contribution:
• In 2016, Dillon established True Abilities Inc., with the mission to provide individuals with developmental disabilities the opportunity to train, grow, and thrive through martial arts. He continues to expand access by creating inclusive training spaces and empowering students of all abilities.
• Dillon also collaborates with local agencies supporting women and children affected by domestic abuse, as well as Boys and Girls Clubs across Western New York. His belief is simple yet powerful: martial arts and self defense should be accessible to all.
IN-PERSON CLASS SCHEDULE
SATURDAY 1:00-2:30 pm ET
WHY JOIN A TRAINING CIRCLE?
When you join a training circle, you’re not just signing up for classes.. you’re becoming part of a living ecosystem of training and mentorship. Each study group is led by its instructor, but all are connected through the guidance and collaboration of a master instructor. That means you gain the benefits of personal attention within your group, while also belonging to a larger extended family of practitioners.
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AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP
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Train with instructors and candidates who are actively refining their craft, guided every step by a master instructor.
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COMMUNITY-DRIVEN GROWTH
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Progress in a supportive environment where learning is shared, not imposed, but direction remains clear.
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DIVERSE INFLUENCES
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Benefit from our method plus insights drawn from the broader martial arts pool, enriching your practice.
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STRUCTURED MENTORSHIP
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Your instructor has direct access to guidance and feedback, ensuring classes stay sharp, energized, and true to the art.
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