A Andover-based not-for-profit organisation is continuing to make a powerful impact across the region, having already supported more than 550 women and girls through free self-defence training.
Ignite Your Power CIC, which delivers programmes in Andover and surrounding towns, has reached the milestone through its National Lottery-funded Warrior Project—an initiative designed to improve personal safety, confidence and wellbeing.
While the project was originally highlighted around International Women’s Day earlier this month, its organisers say the message remains just as important today, with demand for the sessions continuing to grow.
Founder Charlotte Male said the milestone reflects far more than participation numbers.
“It’s about so much more than learning self-defence – it’s about reclaiming confidence, building community, and proving that every woman and girl deserves to feel safe,” she said.
Funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, the Warrior Project is set to deliver 60 free workshops between April 2025 and April 2027. Sessions are already underway across Hampshire, including in Andover, Basingstoke, Southampton, Gosport and Romsey, with 31 workshops delivered to date.
Open to women and girls aged 12 and above, the sessions require no prior experience and are designed to be accessible to all. Each workshop combines practical self-defence techniques with real-life personal safety advice in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Organisers say many attendees initially join because they feel unsafe carrying out everyday activities, such as walking alone or visiting local parks. However, feedback suggests participants often leave feeling more confident and empowered.
Ignite Your Power CIC, a community-driven organisation, was founded to tackle barriers to health, wellbeing and personal safety. Alongside self-defence training, it offers affordable exercise programmes, nutrition guidance and educational resources aimed at strengthening both physical and mental resilience.
Charlotte, who has more than 15 years’ experience in the sport and wellbeing industry, said her personal experiences—including surviving domestic abuse—helped shape the organisation’s mission.
She added: “Too many people feel these spaces aren’t for them, whether that’s due to cost, confidence or past experiences. We’re here to change that and make strength and safety accessible to everyone.”
Upcoming sessions include workshops in Andover and Basingstoke next month, with places available to book online.
With momentum building, Ignite Your Power CIC is encouraging more local women and girls—and their families—to get involved, as it continues its mission to create safer, stronger communities across Hampshire.