Dojo Leader: Yael Magnes (right)

Yael Magnes, a 2nd-degree black belt (Nidan), began her Karate practice in 2000 under Giora Bergel in Tel Aviv. At her very first special training that same year, she was fortunate to meet Sensei Oshima.

After moving to Brooklyn, NY, Yael continued her training without missing a single practice—joining the Columbia University Dojo under the guidance of Ran Cohen, Nachum Zicherman, Angela Babin, and many other dedicated SKA members.

From 2011 to 2014, she lived in Washington, D.C., where she practiced under Godan, Kitty Gallagher. Upon returning to Brooklyn, she had the honor of competing as part of the East Coast team at Nisei Week, where she met Sensei Oshima for the second time. Encouraged by her teachers and peers, she opened her own dojo in March 2024, with the support of dojo manager Iris Platt.

Professionally, Yael is a metalsmith, artist, and designer. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband and two young daughters, creating and teaching with the same dedication and spirit that shape her Karate practice.

Dojo Manager: Iris Platt (left)

Iris Platt, 1st degree blackbelt (Shodan), started practicing karate in 2017 when she was a graduate student at Columbia University. When not practicing martial arts, she runs her own physical therapy practice, Elemental Movement Physical Therapy. She supports Brooklyn Dojo, Yael Magnes, and dojo administrative needs to keep Oshima Sensei’s teachings alive.