Meet The Team
Founder & Lead Instructor
Krissy Marchewka
Krissy is a dedicated and experienced self-defense practitioner who has been empowering individuals through her expertise in self-defense training. Her journey began in 2009 with Evolution Self Defense, where she trained and taught classes for nearly a decade. In 2022, she took her training to the next level under the guidance of esteemed instructors David Kahn and Don Melnick at the Cherry Hill, NJ training center. Through current training sessions, Krissy is on track to earn her certification and affiliation in 2025, further solidifying her expertise in the field.
Not content with just personal growth, Krissy took a remarkable step by founding Empowerment XIV, a non-profit organization dedicated to offering self-defense classes and courses to the local community and its surroundings. By creating a platform that focuses on self-defense, Krissy aims to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to protect themselves and foster a sense of personal security.
Beyond her self-defense training, Krissy possesses a comprehensive educational background. In 2011, she completed her studies at The Institute for Integrative Nutritional Health, specializing as a coach with a strong foundation in Psychology and Holistic Nutrition. This diverse skill set allows Krissy to address the holistic well-being of her clients, going beyond physical self-defense techniques. Her understanding of the interconnectedness between physical and mental health enables her to provide support and guidance that caters to the overall well-being of her students.
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Krissy's dedication extends beyond self-defense training as she actively supports survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. She consistently attends specialized trainings to expand her knowledge and equip herself with the tools needed to advocate for victims effectively. Krissy's commitment provides emotional support and guide survivors on their journey towards healing and resilience. Her expertise and experience make her a valuable asset to the community she serves through Empowerment XIV, where she strives to create a safe and empowering environment for individuals to thrive.
Instructor-In-Training
Alexis Marchewka
​Alexis, a dedicated and accomplished student, is an invaluable addition to Empowerment XIV. As a National Honors Society student, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.
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Alexis's journey in self-defense training began at a young age. With four years of junior instructor training under her belt, she has developed a deep understanding of effective teaching methods and techniques. This extensive training has been nurtured through her ten-year attendance at Evolution Self-Defense, where she has honed her skills and cultivated a passion for empowering others.
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In addition to her self-defense training, Alexis has a year of experience in kickboxing. This diverse background in martial arts enables her to bring a well-rounded perspective to her role at Empowerment XIV, contributing to the comprehensive development of participants.
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Alexis's passion for empowering women and girls is evident through her enthusiasm for assisting with the Girls' Empowerment class. Recognizing the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment, she actively engages with participants, providing guidance, support, and mentorship. Alexis understands the impact she can have on young girls, and she approaches her role with dedication and a deep sense of responsibility.
Her favorite class, the Girls' Empowerment program, serves as a platform for Alexis to make a positive impact on the lives of young girls. Through this program, she helps instill confidence, self-worth, and valuable life skills in the participants. Alexis understands the transformative power of this program and is driven to ensure that every girl feels empowered to navigate the challenges they may face.
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Alexis's commitment, dedication, and genuine passion for empowering others make her an indispensable asset to Empowerment XIV. Her extensive training, coupled with her nurturing and supportive nature, creates an environment where participants can flourish and grow. With her valuable contributions, Alexis plays a crucial role in helping women and girls develop the skills, mindset, and resilience needed to navigate the world confidently.