Shareef Muhammad

Shareef Muhammad began his Aikido journey in 1994 under the esteemed guidance of Garrett Hawkins Sensei, a 4th dan Aikikai instructor. Initially affiliated with The Aikido Association of America, led by Fumio Toyoda Shihan, Shareef's dojo faced a pivotal change when it broke away from the AAA at the request of Hawkins Sensei before his passing. Following the unfortunate passing of Hawkins Sensei in 1997, Shareef held the rank of 1st kyu and faced a period of uncertainty as the dojo remained unaffiliated.

In the aftermath of Hawkins Sensei's departure, Warren Jones, a respected figure in the Aikido community and a close associate and classmate of Hawkins Sensei, assumed an advisory role within the dojo. Jones Sensei, a student of Toyoda Sensei since 1974 and a 7th degree black belt, became a pivotal mentor for Shareef, guiding his training and promoting him to the rank of Shodan in 1998, Nidan in 2000, Sandan in 2009, Yondan in 2013 and Godan in 2017. These promotions were marked by certificates issued directly by Jones Sensei, honoring Hawkins Sensei's legacy and the dojo's decision to stand apart from the AAA.

In 2022, Shareef Muhammad was promoted to 6th dan and awarded the title of Shihan by Warren Jones. Unfortunately, Jones Sensei passed away suddenly in January 2023, leaving behind a profound legacy in the Aikido community.

Today, Muhammad Shihan serves as the head instructor at Bushinkan Dojo, having dedicated himself to the practice and teaching of Aikido. Driven by a passion for the art and a desire to give back to the community, he is committed to serving and diversifying the Aikido landscape, particularly within the underserved Black community. Shareef Muhammad aspires to be an ambassador for Aikido, promoting its virtues of harmony, respect, and personal growth while fostering the growth of the art among his community.

Muhammad Shihan now carries on the invaluable teachings and legacy of Warren Jones Sensei, imparting his knowledge to the next generation of Aikido practitioners.