The Mauritius archipelago will be the stage for a historic milestone with the celebration of the first International Coaches Seminar in Muaythai, organized by the International Federation of Muaythai Amateur -IFMA-. The event will take place from 19 to 22 August 2025 at the scenic 7 Cascades Lodges in Henrietta, Vacoas, bringing together legendary figures of the martial art, international experts, and global sports leaders.
Coinciding with World Humanitarian Day
The opening is scheduled for 19 August, coinciding with World Humanitarian Day, a date that highlights values such as solidarity, respect, and commitment to those who dedicate their lives to helping others. This symbolic alignment underlines the role of sport as a vehicle for social and humanitarian impact, capable of transcending the ring to contribute to a greater good.
At the forefront of the seminar will be Grandmaster Dr. Ajarn Chao Wattayota, from Thailand, one of the most revered figures in Muaythai. He will be joined by internationally recognized specialists in sports psychology, athlete safeguarding, nutrition, anti-doping, medical care, and sports management, aiming to provide a world-class educational experience.
Sport of inclusion, discipline, and community empowerment
The seminar will also welcome the President of United Through Sports as keynote speaker, addressing the role of social values and responsibilities in the sporting arena. His intervention will emphasize combat sports as catalysts for inclusion, discipline, and community empowerment. High-ranking authorities and dignitaries from Mauritius will attend the opening ceremony, reflecting the country’s national commitment to sport as a tool for social change.
The event also integrates a social initiative through its partnership with PILS (Prévention Information Lutte contre le Sida) to raise awareness and support the fight against HIV and the stigma surrounding it. This collaboration aligns with the core philosophy of Muaythai: a discipline rooted in respect, health, and social responsibility.
Redefining the role of Muaythai
A key figure in making the event possible is Mr. Sham Seeratam, member of the IFMA Executive Committee and President of the Indian Ocean Muaythai Federation, whose leadership and dedication have been instrumental in bringing the seminar to life. According to the IFMA, his vision has fostered the growth of Muaythai in the region, setting an inspiring example for other countries.
The IFMA President, Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan, emphasized the importance of the seminar with words that encapsulate its spirit: “Together, we have brought IFMA to new heights, and events like this show how sport can go beyond competition: it can heal, educate, and unite. I am proud to see Mauritius leading the way in this important journey.”
With a strong focus on innovation, knowledge exchange, and community impact, the 2025 Seminar aims to strengthen the work of coaches, inspire athletes, and redefine the role of Muaythai as a tool for human development. Mauritius is thus preparing to open a new era in sport, education, and social responsibility.
