Expert Mentors, Martial Arts Coaches & Fitness Instructors in Midtown Toronto

Our team balances deep martial arts expertise with backgrounds in exercise science, and youth psychology. We don’t just teach punches, kicks, or grappling; we create a safe, high-energy environment built to help you de-stress, build real-world confidence, and live your best life.

about evoke martial arts

Elite Training with a Community Vibe

What started in 2005 with a handful of friends has grown into a community hub of likeminded individuals passionate about creating better versions of themselves through martial arts and fitness.

Academic-Backed Youth Mentorship.

Our kids’ and teen program instructors, for example, leverage their academic backgrounds in Neuroscience, Child Psychology, and Sports Science to teach focus, emotional regulation, and physical coordination in ways that translate directly from the mats to the classroom.

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Tess Lee

Operations Manager | Kickboxing & Muay Thai Instructor

Ms. Tess traded her engineering background for a passion for health, community, and functional fitness.

As our Operations Manager, a 2nd degree Hapkido black belt, and certified Muay Thai coach; she brings an analytical mind to our class structures and an unmatched spark of energy to the mats.

Ms. Tess is deeply passionate about breaking down the intimidation barriers of combat sports, creating a welcoming space where women and adult beginners can build functional strength, learn authentic Muay Thai, and feel completely empowered.

Dayo Odesanya

Head Instructor | Assistant Manager

From IT specialist to professional movie stuntman to elite martial arts mentor, Master Dayo’s journey spans multiple decades and disciplines.

After a competitive injury shifted his path, he dedicated his life to teaching the true, non-competitive essence of martial arts: resilience, focus, and self-protection.

Currently a 6th degree Hapkido black belt, a Muay Thai trainer, and black belt rank in few other disciplines; he brings a wealth of knowledge into his classes.

Master Dayo excels at tailoring training to the individual – ensuring that whether you are an adult professional looking for an ego-free workout or a parent wanting structured life skills for your child, you are training safely and effectively.

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Elona Guni

Instructor | Member Services

Ms. Elona is an alumni of Evoke’s teen program herself – many years ago.

With a masters degree in Neuroscience and Child Psychology, she leverages her academic background in the way she incorporates innovative concepts into the martial arts classes she leads.

Elona holds a “blue shorts” Muay Thai rank, and on track to test for a 3rd degree black belt in Hapkido.

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Agnes Wijaya

Instructor | Muay Thai & Adult programs

As graduate of Biomedical Engineering Ms. Agnes is able to combine two of her passions while teaching and training at Evoke – science and martial arts.

When you observe her teaching, or pairing up with her in a muay thai class, you will notice how she brilliantly articulates instruction and help simplify understanding movement.

She is a level 1 Muay Thai coach (“blue shorts” rank) and Hapkido 2nd Geup red belt. Agnes is fierce on the pads but also so gentle to train with.

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Alex Rodriguez

Instructor | Kickboxing & Youth programs

His deep passion is a result of being raised in a family of career martial artists – with some going on to become UFC hall of famers.

Mr. Alex is a Sports science graduate, and his martial arts experiences include Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, Wrestling, and Kickboxing.

With a “green rank” in Muay Thai Kickboxing, and and Hapkido black red belt; Mr. Alex is amazing with the kids, and exceptional at inspiring students to push themselves to give their ultimate best.

Supported by an Elite Roster of Mentors

In addition to our head coaches, Evoke Academy maintains an active, thoroughly vetted network of certified black belt assistants, high-ranking volunteer coaches, and junior assistants. Every single team member on our mats is trained to embody our core values of respect, safety, and continuous personal growth.”

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Theo Hardie

Instructor | Adult & kids programs

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Leila Munro

Instructor | Jr. Camp Coordinator

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Diba Davoudi

Instructor | Youth programs

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Brian Benoit

Instructor | Youth programs

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Ready to Train with Toronto’s Most Welcoming
Martial Arts & Kickboxing Coaching Team?

You do not need to be in peak shape or have prior martial arts experience to step onto our mats. Our certified coaches specialize in beginner-friendly instruction tailored entirely to your personal goals. Whether you are looking for an upbeat workout or life-changing youth program for your child, we are ready to guide you every step of the way.

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🚫 No Long-Term Contract Pressure

🥋 Beginner-Friendly Environment

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