Laura Armstrong brings more than 30 years of experience in martial arts, leadership training, and empowerment education. With high-level ranks in multiple disciplines, including Grandmaster in Filipino Martial Arts and 4th Dan (Yon Dan) in Aikido, she has dedicated her career to teaching practical, accessible self-defense to people of all ages and backgrounds. Her extensive training also includes Hap-ki-do, Shotokan Karate, and a wide range of self-defense methodologies.

A seasoned National Martial Arts Coach for over two decades, Laura has helped produce world champions and strong leaders through her impactful coaching style. She is the Founder and CEO of Leadership with Laura and Wealth Mastery Systems, organizations that use strategic, holistic training programs to develop leadership skills, communication mastery, and personal empowerment.

Laura teaches Empowerment Self Defense as a core part of her martial arts curriculum and specializes in adapting her courses for diverse groups, including women’s shelters, prisons, halfway houses, special populations, corporations, and community organizations. She is deeply committed to helping individuals step into their own power, build confidence, and create safety in their lives.

Her qualifications include AEP Designation with ESD Global, ESDP Accreditation, IMPACT Lead Instructor/Trainer Certification, and multiple holistic practitioner credentials. She is proud to be an active member of the Association of ESD Professionals and a certified IMPACT instructor. Laura is also a professional speaker, regularly presenting on empowerment, mindset, and personal worth.

Based in Toronto, Canada, Laura continues to work with nonprofits, corporations, government-funded organizations, and educational institutions to expand access to empowerment-based self-defense training.