EMPTYHANDS
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© EMPTYHANDS. by BESPOKE VISTA.

INSTRUCTORS

Azeem Mustaq (Sensei)

Rank: Sensei - GoDan
Qualifications: GoDan, MA, BA (Hons), Dip Shiatsu-Do (FWSS)
About: Azeem founded EmptyHands in March 2006 to create a Dojo grounded in the principles of Bushidō—discipline, respect, and purpose—while
embracing thoughtful, modern interpretation. This vision grew naturally from his lifelong journey through the martial, healing, and coaching arts.
Background: Inspired by a family tradition of wrestling, Azeem’s passion began in childhood and expanded in his teens through kickboxing. His formal Karate path started in 1994 as a founding member of an East London Dojo. He trained widely across local Dojos and travelled to learn from multiple Sensei's, deepening his Shotokan practice and exploring Tai Chi Chuan and Shiatsu. He also launched the first online Karate magazine (ZenKarate), sharing knowledge with a growing community. Years of dedication led him to earn the title Sensei, guided by masters including Hirokazu Kanazawa Sōke, Chris Rowen Shihan, Yoshinobu Ohta Sensei, and Nobuaki Kanazawa Kanchō.
In 1999, Azeem began studying internal arts with Master John Ding at the International Academy of Tai Chi Chuan, training until 2005 and returning in 2014. He also graduated from the British School of Shiatsu‑Do in 2003 and continues client work and research in Epping. His Shiatsu development was supported by the late Rex Lassale (Shiatsu Master), whose guidance helped shape Azeem’s integrated approach.
Azeem holds an M.A. in Coaching (Oxford Brookes, 2013), where he developed the first Karate Coaching Model, and he actively promotes coaching in Martial Arts through talks and publications. He also serves as a board member of the Shiatsu Society, helping raise awareness of Shiatsu and wellbeing.
Alongside teaching, Azeem has 30+ years experience in Business Architecture and IT Transformation as a Senior Business Consultant (Bespoke Vista Ltd), working with major organisations and maintaining current safeguarding checks.
EmptyHands brings this journey together—Karate Do, Tai Chi Chuan, Shiatsu, Yoga, and Coaching—to inspire disciplined practice, personal insight, and real‑world transformation.

Irm Mushtaq (Sensei)

Rank: Sensei - Sandan
Qualifications: SanDan, MA, BA (Hons), Yoga Teacher
About: Irm began her training in 2006 when EmptyHands first opened its doors. She has worked diligently as an ambassador of karate, promoting the philosophy and aims of our dojo. Irm has been actively involved in the management of EmptyHands,
as well as coaching and mentoring beginner students. She is one of our Senior Instructors and the founder/teacher of our EmptyHands Yoga classes.
Irm has a background in investment banking, aviation and has recently been working for a performance coaching company, providing consultancy on end-user journeys for well-being.

Reet Chadda (Senpai)

Rank: Senpai - ShoDan
About: Reet began her Karate-Do journey in 2016 and has been an integral part of the Dojo for many years. As one of our most senior students, she has firmly established her place in Karate through commitment, discipline, and clear focus on her application and development.
Karate has enabled Reet to consistently push beyond her comfort zones, both mentally and physically, building resilience and confidence.
Over the years, she has developed a strong awareness of her abilities and adopted a mindset that rejects defeatism in any situation. This outlook has not only earned her recognition and accolades within the Dojo but has also contributed to her success in academic life.
Reet recently achieved outstanding results in her A Levels, attaining the highest marks, and is now taking a gap year to further refine her skills, broaden her experiences, and continue her personal growth. She stands as an excellent role model for younger students, embodying the spirit of Karate-Do in and out of the Dojo.