HARRISBURG, PA — United Everest Taekwondo Academy marked a major milestone on November 15, 2025, as the school conducted its Senior Black Belt and Deputy Black Belt promotion test. The event represented a historic moment for the academy, showcasing both the progress of its students and the growing presence of Taekwondo in the Harrisburg community.
This testing was especially significant because it involved the academy’s first batch of students to reach the black belt level.
After years of training and discipline, fourteen candidates stood before an expert panel of examiners to demonstrate their proficiency in forms, self-defense, sparring, breaking, and theoretical knowledge.The examination panel consisted of respected Taekwondo masters and instructors. Among them was Master Sanjiv Nepali, a certified Master Examiner recognized by the World Taekwondo Headquarters (Kukkiwon) in Seoul, South Korea. Joining him were Master Dek Darjee, Instructor Arpan Puri, and Instructor Kellie Butler, each contributing to the comprehensive evaluation of the students’ skills, technique, and character.A total of fourteen students participated in the test.
Among them, five candidates were 2nd Dan Black Belt, one candidate 1st Dan Black Belt, and eight students took the Deputy Black Belt test. Throughout the day, the candidates demonstrated not only their technical abilities but also the perseverance, respect, and discipline that are at the heart of Taekwondo philosophy.School founder and owner, Binita Puri Rai, expressed pride in the achievements of both the students and the academy itself. Since opening its doors in March 2023, United Everest Taekwondo Academy has steadily grown into a vibrant training hub for children, youth, and adults in the Harrisburg region.
Hosting its belt examination signifies a major step forward in the school’s development and in its commitment to providing high-quality martial arts education.Parents, supporters, and community members also attended the event, cheering on the candidates as they completed each stage of the test. The successful conclusion of this belt test marks the beginning of a new chapter for the academy. United Everest Taekwondo Academy is poised to continue cultivating future athletes, leaders, and role models within the community.
As Taekwondo continues to grow in popularity across Pennsylvania, events like these highlight the important role martial arts schools play—not only in developing physical abilities, but also in shaping character and building community bonds.
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