More than a martial arts class

Tropic Lightning Taekwondo Hawaiʻi LLC is a community-minded martial arts school in Kapolei, Hawaiʻi, proudly serving families from ʻEwa Beach, Makakilo, Hoʻopili, and across West Oʻahu. Our Taekwondo classes welcome children, teens, and adults, including complete beginners. We believe the lessons learned in the dojang—respect, discipline, courage, perseverance, and humility—belong in everyday life.

Students are encouraged to support one another, work toward their goals, and take pride in the effort they put into every practice.

Master Kiani’s teaching philosophy: Every student learns differently. Her goal is to help students grow in confidence, discipline, respect, and Taekwondo skills while creating a supportive dojang where everyone feels encouraged and part of the ʻohana.

Meet our instructors

Master Kiani A.

Head Instructor & School Director · 4th-Degree Taekwondo Master

With 24 years of martial arts experience, Master Kiani brings a strong foundation in Taekwondo, Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai to her teaching. She earned her 4th-degree Taekwondo Master rank through years of dedicated training and values both the technical skills and life lessons students develop through martial arts.

Master Kiani has more than a decade of teaching experience and has led the Kapolei school for 10 years. She emphasizes sound technique, clear expectations, respect, and steady progress. She takes pride in helping students feel supported as they practice, learn from challenges, and encourage their classmates.

She also holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Knowing that students learn differently, she approaches instruction with patience and encouragement while helping each student build confidence and personal responsibility—both in class and beyond it.

Kristina S.

Instructor · 3rd-Degree Black Belt

Instructor Kristina began training in Taekwondo 20 years ago at Tropic Lightning Taekwondo and went on to earn her 3rd-degree black belt. Her martial arts background also includes Jiu-Jitsu, adding another perspective to her training and instruction.

With 10 years of teaching experience, Kristina brings consistency, encouragement, and care to the students she teaches. She enjoys helping students improve their techniques, work through challenges, and recognize the progress that comes from steady practice.

Kristina also holds a degree in liberal arts and a Certificate of Achievement in dental assisting. Her commitment to learning complements the focus and perseverance she encourages in the dojang.

What students learn

Our curriculum includes basic techniques, kicking drills and combinations, poomsae (forms), one-step sparring, sparring, self-defense, board breaking, strength and cardio training, footwork, and dojang etiquette.

Progress comes through regular practice, patience, teamwork, and a willingness to keep learning.