Miyo Strong

Black Belt
Instagram: @utahjitsmama

Women's empowerment, self-defense, and giving back to the community are top priorities for Miyo Strong. Before joining the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, Miyo has taught self-defense for over a decade. She lead programs for Temple MMA and Empower Self-Defense before partnering with Elizabeth Smart in 2019.

After chasing down her photography goals and earning her master's and craftsman degrees from Professional Photographers of America, Miyo decided to pursue Jiu Jitsu full time as a competitor and coach in 2016. A black belt under Johnny Carlquist, Miyo also holds certification as a strength and conditioning coach for the prestigious Gym Jones. Miyo is a 5x Jiu Jitsu World Master Champion in both Gi and No Gi, a former MMA fighter and holds a record of 6-0 in bjj superfights.

Miyo is the mother of two incredible daughters who have challenged and motivated her to continue sharing her journey as a survivor and advocate for healing and prevention in the self defense and safety spaces.