Instructors
Shihan Leslaw Samitowski
Shihan Leslaw Samitowski, founder of Kyokushin Karate School KANKU, holds a 7th Dan in Kyokushin Karate and an 8th Dan in Kyusho Jitsu, bringing over 50 years of experience to the martial arts community.
In the 1970s, he played a key role in the growth of the Kyokushin Federation in Poland and competed actively in both international and national championships. He served as the coach of the Polish National Team, leading them to victory at the European Championship. In the 1990s, he brought his expertise to the United States, where he coached the USA National Team. For many years, he was also an international referee, officiating at numerous World, European, and U.S. Championships. His lifelong dedication has earned him a place in the Martial Arts Legends Hall of Honor and Illinois Martial Arts Hall of Fame.
Beyond his accomplishments in martial arts, Shihan Samitowski is also an academic teacher at the College of Oriental Medicine, where he continues to share his knowledge and experience. He currently serves as the KWF USA Branch Chief and holds the title of Professional Karate Coach, earned through a two-year postgraduate program at the college level.
Now, in collaboration with a new generation of dedicated students, Shihan embraces his evolving role as a mentor, guiding others in their growth—both in martial arts and in personal discipline. He takes great pride in seeing his teachings carried forward with integrity, purpose, and passion.
Sensei Bruno
Sensei Bruno Drab is one of the original students of Shihan Leslaw Samitowski, having begun his Kyokushin journey in 1988 when Kanku Dojo first opened its doors.
Over the years, Sensei Bruno has built an impressive competitive record, remaining undefeated in multiple kickboxing and Thai-boxing matches. He also competed in numerous national and international full-contact karate tournaments, including the North American Championships, Canadian Championships, and the IKO World Championships in Japan in 1997 and 1999.
In recognition of his achievements and contributions to the martial arts community, Sensei Bruno was inducted into the Illinois Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He currently holds a 4th Dan black belt in Kyokushin Karate and is a certified KWF judge. As a lead instructor at Kanku Dojo, he works alongside his longtime mentor, Shihan Samitowski, helping to guide and inspire the next generation of martial artists. His unique approach to training and coaching has produced several nationally recognized competitors.
Outside of martial arts, Sensei Bruno is a fitness enthusiast and holds a degree in Physical Therapy (PTA). Alongside his wife, Sensei Magda, and their children, Gabriel and Veronika, he continues to deepen his knowledge and dedication to martial arts. What began as a childhood passion has evolved into a lifelong commitment.
Sensei Magda
Sensei Magda Drab discovered her passion for karate in the early 1990s, where she also met her husband, Bruno, during training. Together, they built a life rooted in martial arts, with their children proudly following in their footsteps. She is also a respected KWF judge actively contributing to the growth and integrity of the Kanku Dojo.
In the 1990s, Sensei Magda competed in the prestigious All American International Tournaments in Rochester, New York, earning impressive results and recognition. Today, she finds great joy in working with young children, guiding them as they develop not only their karate skills but also the confidence, discipline, and respect that come with martial arts training.
Sensei Andy
Sensei Andrzej Chuchra began his Kyokushin karate journey in Poland in 1989. After five years of active training and competing as a junior, he moved to Chicago and joined the Kanku Kyokushin Karate Club in 1995. There, he built lasting friendships with fellow martial artists who shared his passion for karate.
Under the guidance of Shihan Samitowski, Sensei Chuchra earned his 2nd Dan black belt and became an official KWF judge. He remains an active practitioner, constantly striving to deepen his understanding of true Kyokushin karate.
Sensei Chuchra is passionate about teaching and inspiring students. He believes that with discipline, respect, and self-belief, anything is possible. His dedication to Budo karate goes beyond physical practice—he embraces it as a lifelong journey and a way of life.
Sensei Sebastian
Sensei Sebastian Bonislawski is a dedicated Kyokushin practitioner with 12 years of experience in the art and spirit of full-contact karate. As a 1st Dan black belt and multi-time American champion, he has put his skills to the test competing in Japan, Poland, the Netherlands, Chile, and Spain.
Beyond his own accomplishments, he is a respected coach and mentor to his teammates, known for his strong Kyokushin spirit and unwavering dedication to the dojo. Passionate about passing on his knowledge, he guides students not only to succeed in competition but also to grow as martial artists and individuals.
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