Today we’d like to introduce you to Ram Adhikari.
Hi Ram, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born in a small county in Bhutan, and at the age of five my life changed dramatically when my family became refugees. We resettled in a refugee camp in Nepal, where resources were limited but community spirit was strong. It was there, in the midst of hardship, that I was first introduced to Taekwondo—without any idea that this art would become my lifelong passion and the foundation of my future.
I began training at around seven years old. At the time, I saw Taekwondo as a fun way to stay active and maybe defend myself against annoying friends. I had no understanding that those early lessons would shape my character, discipline, leadership, and personal freedom. What started as a simple childhood activity quietly became the compass that guided my life.
Nineteen years ago, I arrived in the United States as a young immigrant determined to build a better future. Today, I am an eager, motivated, and proud American citizen—deeply informed, deeply grateful, and committed to giving back to the community that welcomed me. I am also a father of two: an early teenager and a nine‑year‑old, both of whom are martial artists, and one is also a cheerleader. Watching them grow within the discipline of Taekwondo is one of my greatest joys.
My journey has come full circle in Enola, Pennsylvania, where I established Keystone Taekwondo Academy, a well‑tailored martial arts school built on the values that shaped my own life. Every class I teach is rooted in the lessons I learned in that refugee camp—discipline, focus, respect, leadership, and the belief that martial arts is not just a sport, but a way of life.
I am proud of the skills I gained during a time when I didn’t yet understand their importance. Taekwondo gave me direction when I had none, strength when life was uncertain, and purpose when the future felt unclear. Today, it allows me to empower others, especially young people, to discover their own potential just as I discovered mine.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I began training in Taekwondo at around seven years old, in a refugee camp where we had virtually no training resources. There were no kick pads, no striking shields, no uniforms, and certainly no mats. Our “dojang” was an open patch of bare land—sometimes dry and dusty, other times muddy after the rain. That ground became our training floor, our competition arena, and the place where I discovered the art that would define my life.
We held championships right there on the dirt, falling, rolling, and getting back up with the same enthusiasm every time. Despite the lack of equipment, I enjoyed every moment. Taekwondo was the only structured self‑defense training available to us, and although I stumbled into it almost accidentally, it quickly became the most meaningful part of my childhood.
As you know, we’re big fans of KEYSTONE TAEKWONDO ACADEMY . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Keystone Taekwondo Academy (KETA), located at 374 E Penn Drive, Enola, PA 17025, stands as a growing center of martial arts excellence and family‑focused training. Established in 2024, the academy offers a clean, safe, and well‑equipped facility designed to support students of all ages in developing discipline, confidence, leadership, and self‑defense skills.
Under the direction of Chief Instructor Ram Adhikari, a third – degree black belt with over 30 years of experience in learning and teaching and Instructor Sonu Adhikari, specializing in youth instruction,
KETA provides a welcoming environment rooted in world Taekwondo standards and strict adherence to U.S. SafeSport regulations.
The academy’s programs are tailored for every champion in the making—from Little Tigers (ages 4–6) to Core Tigers (ages 7–12), Teens & Adults (13+), and even special family classes upon request.
Students benefit from structured training that builds stamina, reduces stress, and strengthens focus, discipline, and confidence.
Keystone Taekwondo Academy also hosts regular belt promotion tests, livestreams, and community‑centered events, reflecting its mission to provide high‑quality Taekwondo instruction and personal development opportunities for all skill levels.
More information, including class details and upcoming events, can be found on the academy’s official website: www.keystonetaekwondo.com.
It is located at 374 E Penn Dr Enola PA 17025
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Enola, Pennsylvania is a small yet historically rich community along the Susquehanna River, known for its deep railroad heritage, close‑knit suburban character, and welcoming spirit toward people from all backgrounds.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.keystonetaekwondo.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F14Qp1mzr/?mibextid=wwXIfr
