Development will strengthen links in the community and wider third sector

A Dundee-based charity that began with a single Karate class is embarking on its biggest expansion project yet with a new £1 million community hub. 

Kanzen for Life, formerly known as Kanzen Karate, has grown from its martial arts roots into a driving force for health, wellbeing, and education in some of Scotland’s most deprived communities.

The new Kanzen for Life Centre, located on Clepington Road, Dundee, will create 10 new jobs while addressing major challenges such as inactivity, social isolation, and mental health issues.  

The facility will provide a safe, inclusive space for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, fostering stronger and healthier communities.

The project will be a £1 million investment in the Stobswell area through capital spend and job creation.
Kanzen for Life began as Kanzen Karate in 2009 and was started by lifelong martial arts enthusiasts Roy O’Kane and Dan Woods. Initially focused on using Karate as a tool for personal growth and discipline, the organisation quickly recognised its potential to address broader social challenges.

Charity chief officer Roy O’Kane said: “We saw how physical activity, community and sense of belonging could change lives - not just physically, but emotionally and socially.

“As we grew, we realised we could do so much more to support our communities. It has been a real journey for us and that’s when Kanzen for Life was born.”

Today, the charity supports more than 1,200 people each week across Dundee, Angus, and beyond, offering a range of activities that go far beyond Karate. The new centre is the culmination of this transformation, highlighting the charity’s mission to build healthier, more connected communities.
With the new centre, Kanzen for Life will strengthen collaborations with community groups, charities, and third sector groups, offering a comprehensive approach to tackling inactivity, isolation and inequality.

The Kanzen for Life Centre will serve as a hub for physical activity, wellbeing support, educational programmes and leadership training, provided by a range of organisations. The centre will tackle health inequalities head-on and in Stobswell West, where 30% of residents are prescribed medication for mental health and 25.8% of children live in relative poverty, the centre will act as a vital lifeline.

Roy added: “This isn’t just about providing a space. It’s about creating opportunities—whether that’s for better health, education, or employment. The £1 million investment and 10 new jobs are just the start of what we hope to achieve.” 

“This is about saying to people, we are here to help and support and you, we will give you the tools you need.”

Colin Clement, chair of The Stobswell Forum, said: “We are thrilled that Kanzen for Life has placed so much faith in our community and chosen to establish their new Stobswell Community Hub on Clepington Road.

“The Stobswell Forum eagerly anticipates the chance to further strengthen our positive relationship with Kanzen for Life and collaborate to bring about positive long-term change to our community.”

Kanzen has a proven track record of delivering community impact. Its hosting of the WUKF World Karate Championships in 2018 and 2023 generated a combined £19.2 million for Dundee’s economy, attracting thousands of visitors to the city. The charity has also received numerous accolades, including the Community Impact Award at The Courier Business Awards and Dundee Social Enterprise of the Year.

Through its partnerships with Dundee & Angus College and Abertay University, Kanzen for Life has created pathways for education and employment, empowering individuals to achieve their full potential.

The organisation has been working with Jon Frullani Architects and a planning application for the Kanzen for Life Centre is to be submitted to Dundee City Council in January. 

“This centre is the next step in our journey,” said Roy. “We’ve evolved, but our core mission remains the same - to change lives. We look forward to engaging and working with a range of partners to get this project delivered for the community and a huge thanks to everyone who has supported us thus far on the journey.”