My Sifu's Teacher Trained with Bruce Lee
Kendra Mahon
Kung Fu Kendra, also known as Sifu Kendra Mahon is 3rd generation Master in the Ip Man Lineage, a two gold stripe black sash Kung Fu Professional and Expert Fitness Trainer. As a direct student of Master Brian Lewadny, (taught by William Cheung who was taught by Ip Man) she carries the teachings of Traditional Wing Chun forward. Kendra's martial arts journey has spanned over two decades, during which she has become a globally respected teacher and founder of the Global Kung Fu Alliance.
Sifu Kendra's training reflects the disciplined, traditional approach she inherited from Lewadny, who was in turn shaped by Cheung and the Ip Man tradition. Now a third-generation master in the Ip Man lineage, Kendra is dedicated to making Wing Chun accessible and relevant for modern students globally and recognizing them as students in the largest Ip Man Lineage Wing Chun Directory. Kendra is appointed the Certified International Representative of Traditional Wing Chun by Grandmaster David Cheung (brother of William Cheung) and is recognized by her contribution to the promotion and pereservation of Traditional Wing Chun.
Kendra has been interviewed by Dr. Joe Vitale, Star of the movie "The Secret" and recently was published on the the cover of the 12th issue of Oil and Gas World Magazine with an elaborate interview about her journey and perspectives on the Wing Chun world. Kendra has appeared on popular martial arts podcasts such as Everyday Martial Artist where she shares her experience as a Master in of Wing Chun.
Master Kendra Mahon has been named Canada's Top Fitness Trainer in 'The Best Calgary'. Kung Fu Kendra has also been named one of the Top 10 Fitness Trainers in the world.Master Kendra has been involved in fitness training and practicing martial arts for over 20 years. Her clients range from celebrities such as billionaire Brett Wilson from the TV show "Dragon's Den", top level executives, tech entrepreneurs and every day people. Kung Fu Kendra is the author of a bestselling Kung Fu book: Push Your Way Through (How You Can Use the Ancient Principles of Kung Fu to Get What You Want).
Brian Lewadny
One of Cheung's notable students is Master Brian Lewadny (Master Kendra Mahons teacher), who traveled to Australia to study Traditional Wing Chun directly under Cheung's tutelage. He is a second-generation master in the Yip Man lineage and was appointed Head Master of the North American Wing Chun Association by Grandmaster William Cheung in 1994, who was the head of the World Wing Chun Kung Fu Association. Lewadny studied under William Cheung in Melbourne, Australia. Lewadny fully immersed himself in the art, progressing swiftly and attaining all levels of the system. His mastery and dedication were recognized by Cheung, who entrusted him with the responsibility of introducing Traditional Wing Chun to Canada—an acknowledgment of both his technical acumen and teaching abilities. Lewadny established several Wing Chun academies in Canada and became known for his intricate teachings to Master Kendra and his commitment to preserving the integrity of the art, maintaining the core principles and respect for the lineage passed down from Ip Man through Cheung. Master Lewandny created the Canadian Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy
Bruce Lee
Bruce Lee, a cultural icon and martial arts legend who trained with Willam Cheung, who trained Brian Lewadny and then passed the knowledge to Sifu Kendra. Bruce was born on November 27, 1940, in San Francisco. Renowned for his unparalleled skills, charisma, and philosophical approach to martial arts, Lee made an indelible mark on popular culture. His groundbreaking fusion of different martial arts styles, along with his philosophy of "Jeet Kune Do," revolutionized the way martial arts were perceived and practiced. Bruce Lee's mesmerizing performances in films such as "Enter the Dragon" and "Fists of Fury" showcased his unmatched physical prowess and his ability to transcend cultural barriers.
William Cheung
Traditional Wing Chun, as taught by Grandmaster William Cheung to Master Lewadny and then directly to Sifu Kendra Mahon) - is a lineage deeply rooted in the practices and philosophies of legendary martial artist Ip Man. Cheung's journey began as a young martial artist in Hong Kong, where he not only learned directly from Ip Man but also became a close friend and training partner of Bruce Lee. Recognized for both his dedication and skill, Cheung was instrumental in introducing Bruce Lee to Ip Man's school, fundamentally shaping Lee's early martial arts education. Under Ip Man's guidance, Cheung developed a deep understanding of the art, eventually becoming a live-in student and later head of the Global Traditional Wing Chun Kung Fu Association. Cheung's teachings emphasize authentic forms, practical street defense, and the preservation of traditional techniques.
Ip Man
Ip Man, the revered grandmaster of Wing Chun Kung Fu, is an iconic figure in martial arts history. Born in 1893, his life was marked by his unwavering dedication to his craft and his embodiment of values such as discipline, humility, and honor. Facing numerous challenges and turbulent times, including the Japanese occupation of China, Ip Man emerged as a beacon of resilience and skill. His teachings and techniques have influenced generations of martial artists, and his legacy as a legendary master continues to inspire and captivate people around the world.
Media and Press
- Dr. Joe Vitale, star of the movie "The Secret"
Kendra Mahon's interview on Zero Limits with Dr. Joe Vitale offers an exploration of martial arts, mindset, and personal growth. During their conversation, Kendra shares her journey as a Wing Chun practitioner and expert fitness trainer, discussing how kung fu has shaped her life beyond physical fitness. She emphasizes the importance of living in the moment, breaking down challenges into manageable steps, and using discipline and focus to overcome limitations.
The interview also looks at the connection of martial arts philosophy and mental manifestation. Kendra explains how her training aligns with ideas of visualization, belief in one's inner power, and manifestation to achieve goals. Dr. Joe Vitale and Kendra discuss how true limits are often self-imposed and how cultivating mental clarity through martial arts practice can unlock extraordinary potential. Her insights inspire viewers to consider kung fu not just as a physical discipline but as a tool for mental and spiritual growth.
- Robbie Picard, Oil and Gas World Magazine
Kendra Mahon's interview with Oil and Gas World Magazine highlights her role as a third-generation master in the Ip Man lineage and the depth of tradition she brings to her work. The interview underscores how she connects the physical and mental aspects of martial arts with modern fitness principles.
Kendra discusses her vision for making Wing Chun more accessible through her online certification program and the Global Kung Fu Alliance, which she founded. Her insights reveal how martial arts principles can translate into effective leadership, resilience, and well-being in high-pressure environments like the oil and gas industry. Her message resonates with professionals seeking tools to manage stress, build confidence, and maintain health despite demanding schedules.
- Brian Doucette, Everyday Martial Artist Podcast
Kendra Mahon's interview on Everyday Martial Artist looks at the challenges and rewards she's experienced along her path, highlighting how Wing Chun has shaped her teaching approach. Her passion for preserving authentic martial arts while adapting to modern training methods resonates strongly with viewers seeking genuine expertise.
Kendra emphasizes the importance of community in mastering Wing Chun and discusses how she tailors her instruction to suit individual needs while maintaining the integrity of traditional techniques. The candid dialogue provides an inspiring look at how martial arts training can develop personal growth beyond physical combat.
- Kevin Halliday, Shed Talk Podcast
During the interview, Kendra reflects on moments when she felt overwhelmed or unsure if she could continue. She shares her philosophy that "it's not over till it's over," stressing the power of resilience and the ability to adapt and overcome setbacks. Kendra's analogy of chess highlights her strategic mindset, reminding listeners that even when it seems like defeat is inevitable, situations can quickly change with focus and determination.
The conversation touches on her broader mission to inspire others through her fitness and kung fu programs, including her book that translates martial arts principles into practical life lessons.
Kendra shared how her love for Kung Fu began as a way to find balance and control in her life. She explained that martial arts taught her efficiency and how to use other people's energies to her advantage, applying this in daily life situations like driving or grocery shopping. This approach inspired her to write her book, Push Your Way Through, where she combines martial arts principles with practical motivational tips.
Kendra discussed documenting her strategies through voice memos and emphasized that motivation comes from treating everyday goals as small challenges rather than overwhelming tasks. She touched on the importance of saying "no" to distractions and staying focused on personal priorities, helping people become leaders of their own lives rather than followers.
She shared her perspective on what winning means—having the freedom and mindset to do more of what one loves and less of what one doesn't. Kendra encouraged listeners to take control, set intentions deliberately, and live with confidence and honor.