We are very excited to announce the following upcoming Friendship Seminars at NOLA Aikido!
September 18-20, 2026
Miia Mäntysaari Sensei
Miia Mäntysaari, 6th Dan Aikikai, a student (deshi) of Endo Shihan, embodies a style of aikido that is soft yet powerful, emphasizing flow, connection, and presence. She teaches seminars regularly in Finland and internationally, and travels to Japan twice a year to train with Endo Sensei and his close students. Her home dojo, Kimoumi, is located in Kirkkonummi, near Helsinki.
Watch this video to see Miia Sensei in action!
More information and registration page will be released two months before the seminar.
Meanwhile, contact us for more information or to pre-register now.
November 6-8, 2026
Mats Ahlin Sensei
When practicing Aikido, Mats Ahlin is particularly interested in how movements can be reduced to what is absolutely necessary. He examines and questions existing patterns in order to create stillness, clarity and sharpness. For him, it is important to remove the ego so that we can learn to develop the right kind of positive power and create an aikido that remains connected and peaceful despite its sharpness.
“Aikido is what connects me to the most beautiful parts of myself,” says Mats. “The opportunity to share this inspiration with other people is one of the greatest gifts in life.”
Mats began practicing Aikido with Jorma Lyly Shihan in 1997, and soon after with Jan Nevelius Shihan, who are both his teachers today. His most important influence outside Sweden is Christian Tissier Shihan. His close student Fabrice Croizé deepened his understanding of the martial art.
Mats has practiced for many years at Vanadis Aikidoklubb in Stockholm (vanadis-aikido.se). He holds a 4th Dan Aikikai.
Watch this video to see Mats Sensei in action!
More information and registration page will be released two months before the seminar.
Meanwhile, contact us for more information or to pre-register now.
Welcome and see y’all on the mats!!