Empowering those to Find Their Inner strength

Graciela Casillas defied conventions in the 70s and 80s, building an undefeated professional fighting career with 31 wins and 18 knockouts. Despite facing institutional barriers—including limited round sanctions for women—she persevered, ultimately retiring at the prestigious Inglewood Forum in 1986.

Her passion for empowering others led her to transform her fighting experience into teaching martial arts, tactical training, and self-defense. As founder of Shen Chun Do and a world champion in multiple disciplines, she emphasizes the psychological and mental aspects that help students discover their inner strength.

At Oxnard College, Casillas guides undergraduates as a Professor and Academic Counselor, helping them find their path. Her voice reaches broader audiences through her columns in Black Belt Magazine and her book "The Lioness Within: A Personal Guide to Self-Defense for Women."

The Amazon documentary The Lioness Within, directed by Aleksandar Adzic, captures Casillas' groundbreaking journey from world champion fighter to influential mentor. The film showcases how she challenged gender norms while championing dignity and equal rights in combat sports.

The Lioness Within explores the transformative power of martial arts through the lens of teacher-student relationships. Drawing parallels with Bruce Lee's philosophy of self-expression and equality, the documentary celebrates how martial arts empowers practitioners to discover their authentic voice and inner strength.

True Strength Lies in Uplifting Others to Rise

Graciela Casillas forged her legacy through an undefeated professional fighting career, securing 31 victories and 18 knockouts during the restrictive 70s and 80s. Rather than let institutional barriers define her path, she channeled her experience into lifting others up.

"The martial way isn't just about physical technique," Casillas explains. "It's about developing an unshakeable core of mental and emotional fortitude. When I teach, I'm not just showing defensive tactics – I'm revealing to my students their own capacity for greatness. Every punch thrown, every technique mastered, is a step toward self-discovery."

As founder of Shen Chun Do and a multi-discipline world champion, she teaches martial arts and self-defense with emphasis on mental fortitude. Her role as Professor and Academic Counselor at Oxnard College extends this mission, guiding students toward their potential.

Through her columns in Black Belt Magazine and her book "The Lioness Within: A Personal Guide to Self-Defense for Women," Casillas shares hard-won wisdom with those seeking strength. The Amazon documentary The Lioness Within captures her evolution from champion fighter to transformative mentor.

The film highlights how Casillas broke gender barriers while maintaining dignity in combat sports. Drawing from Bruce Lee's philosophy of authentic self-expression, it showcases how martial arts builds confidence and inner power – principles she now instills in others through teaching and mentorship.