From a beloved local studio to a community anchor

How Heart & Soul Martial Arts in Trail evolved into a community-focused, not-for-profit space

Jakki Van Hemert is dedicated to her students' success. — Photo courtesy of Jakki Van Hemert

Ten years after being recognized on KootenayBiz’s 40 Under 40 list, Jakki Van Hemert is still building, just with a clearer sense of purpose. Over that time, Heart & Soul Martial Arts has evolved from a growing martial arts school into a community-driven, not-for-profit organization focused on accessibility, sustainability, and long-term impact. What started as a traditional business has shifted into something more intentional, where removing financial barriers and creating a supportive environment are central to its mission.

That evolution hasn’t come without challenges, but it has shaped a stronger foundation. In this interview, Van Hemert reflects on a decade of change, the realities of running a martial arts program, and how training can build resilience, confidence, and community far beyond the gym floor.

When you think back to where Heart & Soul Martial Arts was in 2016, what feels most different today?

In 2016, the focus was on building—getting students in, growing the program, and proving the model worked. Today, it’s more intentional. The focus has shifted toward sustainability, community, and delivering something that has long-term value for the people who train here.

How has your original vision for the studio evolved over the past decade?

The original vision was to run a strong martial arts school. That hasn’t changed—but how we define “strong” has. We transitioned from a for-profit model to a not-for-profit, which shifted the focus toward accessibility and community impact. A key part of that is working to make sure financial barriers aren’t the reason someone can’t train.

At the same time, we’ve expanded the fitness side of the program. Not everyone comes in with the same goals, so offering both martial arts and structured fitness has allowed us to reach more people and meet them where they’re at.

What’s something you thought would be easy—but turned out not to be?

Retention—especially with adults. Life pulls people in different directions, and long-term consistency is hard. It’s something we’re always working to improve by creating an environment people want to come back to.

What are you most proud of when you look back over the last 10 years?

That we’ve stayed consistent through a lot of change. There were periods where we had to carry the school financially ourselves just to keep it going. At the same time, we’ve continued to raise the standard of training and maintain a strong core group. Keeping it alive while still improving it is something I’m proud of.

What has been a defining milestone for Heart & Soul Martial Arts?

Restructuring into a not-for-profit was a major turning point. It clarified the purpose of the school and allowed us to focus on building something that can last and serve the community long-term.

What challenges pushed you to adapt or rethink your business?

A combination of factors—losing key people, instructors stepping away due to life circumstances, and broader life changes within the community. Those moments force you to reassess and rebuild, and they highlight how much a school like this depends on people.

Can you share a story of a student whose journey really stayed with you?

It’s less about one single story and more about a pattern—students coming in unsure of themselves and, over time, becoming more confident, disciplined, and capable. Seeing that long-term growth is what sticks.

How do you see martial arts impacting people beyond physical fitness?

It builds resilience and accountability. On the physical side, people improve strength, conditioning, and overall fitness. Beyond that, they learn how to handle pressure, stay consistent, and work through challenges—skills that carry into everyday life.

What are your dreams for the future?

To continue building something stable, accessible, and meaningful. To reach more people through both martial arts and fitness, and to create a place where anyone can show up as they are, feel supported, and work toward becoming their best self.

A big part of that is also continuing to grow technically—developing instructors, strengthening our connection to Kukkiwon, and continuing to learn and evolve.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Over time, you realize a school like this is bigger than any one person. The goal is to build something that lasts—something that continues to serve the community and gives people a place to belong, regardless of what’s going on in their lives.