Preferred Title:

Grand Master

Began training:
1975

Styles/Arts:

Hall of Fame Award:

2026 - 50 years

Biography:

Grand Master Barbara Ann Dickens began training in Singapore during a time when female martial art students were shunned. Despite resistance, Grand Master Dickens continued to train. Relocating to Houston, Texas in 1975 she began training under Kim Soo, progressing in rank from white belt to 5th Dan.

Due to differences in ideology she was no longer welcomed at Kim Soo Karate. This only fueled her determination to ensure her present rank was acknowledged by other reputable organizations. In 1992, that fuel was lit afire and she founded White Horse Academy of Martial Arts and her own style: Universal Way.

Grandmaster Barbara had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 1988, and it recurred in 1994. Throughout her treatment, she continued teaching at her school and her other commitments. In 2000 she became a founding member of AWMAI. With like minded, strong willed women martial artists this organization was created to provide support and to be a place of unconditional acceptance.

Unfortunately, during the COVID pandemic, WHAMA was forced to close its doors. But her legacy, her students and the ripple effects of her actions live on. Grand Master Dickens continues to teach self defense classes in her community, but now lives beside Lake Livingston with her beloved husband, Curtis and their dog, Tilt.

Grand Master Barbara Ann Dickens is a pioneer and a trailblazer in the field of martial arts. She paved her own path and followed her moral compass.