From Perth to the podium: How these Filipino girls are kicking barriers and empowering themselves through karate in Australia

SBS Australia

2 days ago

SBS Filipino
01/06/2025 36:52 Learning from the sport At first glance, karate might seem like just another extracurricular activity. But for Julianna and Quiana, it's become a way of life — a channel through which they are building confidence, fostering resilience, and proudly representing their cultural roots on and off the mat. Both girls began their martial arts journey at a young age, driven by a mix of curiosity, self-discipline, and encouragement from their families. 'What started as something as small as a sports activity we enrolled in quickly became something we were passionate about,' says 10-year-old Quiana. 'We've learned that karate is not just about self-defence — it's about who you become because of it being disciplined, full of self-confidence.'
Julianna, 11, echoes the sentiment. 'It teaches you not just self-defence but how to stay calm under pressure, how to focus, be confident and how to be strong.'
The now Year 5 student began learning karate at the age of six, and since starting to compete locally and nationally in 2023, Quiana Zulueta has been bringing home medals. Credit: Supplied by Alma Zulueta More than just winning medals An only child, Quiana began learning karate at around six years old. Since making her competitive debut in 2023, the Year 5 student has amassed an impressive collection of gold medals from local state tournaments across Western Australia. She has also made her mark on the national stage, winning several medals, including two golds, at the National Karate Championships in 2023 and 2025, and a bronze in 2024.
"More than a sport, karate has given me a lot. Being active, being disciplined and responsible too. I also make new friends through karate," Quiana shares.
Julianna Billones hopes to continue with karate for as long as she can. Credit: Supplied by Dianne Billones
Eldest of two, Julianna started attending karate lessons at the age of five. "To prepare for a competition, I train at the dojo four times a week," shares the Year 6 student. "It takes a lot of hard work and dedication, but it's all worth it when you see how far you've come." Before discovering karate, Quiana struggled with bullying related to her physique, but the sport helped her build confidence and strength, both inside and out.
"I used to be bullied by kids who were bigger and taller than me," Quiana says. "But now, I've learned to ignore them — they don't bother me anymore."
Quiana performing her kata (form and drills) during a competition. Credit: Supplied by Alma Zulueta Both Julianna and Quiana train rigorously multiple times a week under the guidance of experienced instructors and have already begun to make waves in local and national competitions.
Their kata (forms) and kumite (sparring) performances are earning respect in a sport where female representation, especially among young girls of diverse backgrounds, is still growing.
Kicking boundaries While karate is often perceived as a male-dominated sport, Quiana's dad, Allan, believes that "it's a sport that women and girls can equally embrace and excel in". "Since she likes the sport, we as parents are just always here to support her," Mr Zulueta reiterates. Dianne Billiones, Julianna's mum, agrees. "As long as she finds joy in what she's doing, we'll stand by her every step of the journey." "Beyond covering the costs of lessons, travel, and competitions, we always remind Julianna to simply do her best and enjoy the sport." For both Quiana and Julianna, learning a sport mainly dominated by their male counterparts has its challenges, but they understand that karate offers more than just physical skill — it's a source of empowerment. Their focus is more on discipline, mental resilience, and respect for others, developing their stronger sense of identity and self-worth.
The two are proving that karate, too, is a powerful force for transformation. They are not just defending themselves — they are confidently claiming their space in a traditionally male-dominated sport, and in doing so, opening doors for others to follow.
Julianna Billones (right), when she was just starting with karate, has also inspired her younger sister, Jamie, to try the sport at age three. Credit: Supplied by Dianne Billones Filipino pride As they continue to train and collect medals at such a young age, the two girls are keenly aware of how their Filipino heritage and dedication shape their identity as athletes. 'We're proud of where we come from,' says Quiana. 'It motivates us to work harder and show that girls like us can achieve great things.' The young Zulueta also hopes to one day represent her heritage — if not Australia, then the Philippines — on the international karate stage.
The girls are becoming role models in their community, showing that with dedication and the right mindset, young people can rise to meet challenges in any arena. Their journey is also inspiring other Filipino-Australian families to consider karate not just for protection, but for the values it instils: respect, humility, and perseverance.
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