Karate athletes from around the world will gather in the Czech capital to compete at the highest level in Kata, Kumite, and other traditional karate disciplines. Beyond the competition itself, the championship represents the core values of traditional karate: respect, discipline, fairness, and international friendship.

Prague Hosts the Karate World Championship 2027

With its rich history, central European location, and excellent infrastructure, Prague provides the perfect setting for an event of this magnitude. For one week, the city will become the meeting point of the international karate community and a stage for outstanding performances in traditional karate.

The 13th ITKF World Shiai promises exciting competition, cultural exchange, and an opportunity to celebrate the spirit and traditions of karate-do with participants from every continent.

European Championship 2028 Also Confirmed

Another major milestone for the traditional karate community has already been announced. The ITKF and ETKU European Traditional Karate Championship 2028 will be held in Berlin, Germany, from 14–19 November 2028.

The German capital will welcome athletes, coaches, officials, and karate enthusiasts from across Europe for one of the continent’s most prestigious traditional karate events. Hosting the European Championship further highlights Germany’s important role in the development and promotion of traditional karate in Europe.

Key Dates

13th ITKF World Shiai – Traditional Karate World Championship 2027

9–15 November 2027
Prague, Czech Republic

ITKF & ETKU European Traditional Karate Championship 2028

14–19 November 2028
Berlin, Germany

Looking Ahead

With the Traditional Karate World Championship 2027 in Prague and the ITKF & ETKU European Championship 2028 in Berlin, the international karate community can look forward to two outstanding events that will showcase both sporting excellence and the enduring values of traditional karate. Athletes, instructors, and karate supporters around the world are encouraged to mark these dates in their calendars and join the global karate family in Prague and Berlin.

Stay tuned and visit this website regularly for the latest news, updates, and important information about the 13th ITKF World Shiai – Traditional Karate World Championship 2027 in Prague.

Oss!

From May 1st to May 3rd, 2026, the Serbian city of Novi Sad became the center of the international karate community. The main focus of the event was the 38th ETKU (ETKF) European Championship of the ITKF, bringing together numerous nations, senior officials, referees, instructors, and athletes to promote international exchange and the continued development of Traditional Karate within the ITKF.

Secretary General of the ITKF Michael Bock with the President of the ETKU (ETKF) Sensei Slobodan Milicevic

International ITKF Referee Education

Several days before the championship officially began, international referees from Italy, Germany, Slovenia, Poland, and Serbia arrived in Novi Sad to participate in an intensive ITKF referee education program. The training was personally conducted by ITKF President and Chairman Sensei Richard Jorgensen, who dedicated significant energy and experience to maintaining and improving the high international standards of Traditional Karate officiating.

The referee seminars were held partly in the dojo of ETKU (ETKF) President Sensei Slobodan Milicevic and partly inside the sports arena itself. Through this educational program, the ITKF once again demonstrated its strong commitment to technical quality, education, and international cooperation.

German referees team of the DTSKF with Sensei Richard Jorgensen

Sensei Michael Bock was also present in Novi Sad in his role as Secretary General of the ITKF. In addition to supporting the organizational and representative duties of the championship, he also represented the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta, Federation of the Autonomous Priories.

Lectures and International Exchange

Another important highlight was the lecture given by Prof. Goran Lozo, CEO of BIZ Consulting USA. During the ITKF event, he spoke about modern training organization and strategies for attracting and developing new students and members.

Throughout the championship, delegations and competitors from Hungary, Czech Republic, Italy, Slovenia, Serbia, Bosnia, Germany, Poland, and Spain arrived in Novi Sad. Additional guests from the United States and Canada also attended the event. This strong international participation once again demonstrated the growing influence and unity of the ITKF within the worldwide Traditional Karate community.

38th ETKU (ETKF) European Championship of the ITKF

European Championship and Children’s Traditional Karate Competition

The championship competition itself was marked by high technical standards, discipline, and strong fighting spirit. The athletes demonstrated the values of Traditional Karate that the ITKF has promoted and preserved for decades.

Despite some organizational challenges during parts of the event, the championship was successfully conducted and widely recognized as an important international platform for Traditional Karate. The parallel children’s championship complemented the event and reflected the strong youth development within ITKF structures.

ITKF Strengthens Discussions with the IOC

One of the most significant aspects of the championship involved discussions concerning the international future of Traditional Karate and the strategic direction of the ITKF. Chairman Sensei Rick Jorgensen, Secretary General Michael Bock, and Sir Prof. Georg Popper held intensive meetings regarding the long-term development of the organization.

The discussions focused on ITKF educational programs, scientific studies related to human and physical development, and especially the ongoing dialogue with the IOC. The participants discussed future strategies for strengthening the international position of Traditional Karate and explored further possibilities regarding the topic of Olympic recognition.

These meetings clearly demonstrated that the ITKF continues to work actively toward expanding the global presence of Traditional Karate and creating long-term opportunities within the Olympic movement.

The refereeing team for the children’s competition

Strong Signals for the Future of Traditional Karate

The 38th ETKU (ETKF) European Championship in Novi Sad strongly reflected the international strength, unity, and future-oriented vision of the ITKF. Beyond the high-level competition, the event emphasized education, international cooperation, and the strategic future of Traditional Karate.

Participants and officials are already looking forward to the next international ITKF championships.

ITKF International Traditional Karate Summer Camp 2026 – Niagara Falls, Canada

The ITKF International Traditional Karate Summer Camp will be held 2026 in the Niagara Falls region of Ontario, Canada. The program follows the technical guidelines established by Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama, focusing on Traditional Karate as self-defence, Budo training, and holistic personal development.

Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama

In addition to technical training, the camp includes Traditional Karate competition (Shi-ai) and opportunities for international coach, referee, and Dan certification for eligible participants. The camp is directed by Sensei Richard Jorgensen with the support of the ITKF Technical Committee. Space is limited and early registration is recommended.

Participation:

Minimum recommended rank 3rd Kyu; ITKF membership or approval required.
All Camp participants must complete the official Application Form and submit all fees to the
ITKF Administrative office via email, itkf@itkf.org;

Related files:

ITKF Summer Camp Registration Form 2026 here
Letter Bord of Directors ITKF Summer Camp 2026 here
2026 ITKF Summer Camp – Niagara Region, Canada here
2026 International Summer Camp of ITKF Application / Anouncement here
2026 Banking Payment Information here

Sensei Enver Cakiqi, Sensei Takeshi Kitagawa, Sensei Michael Bock

Berlin once again became the meeting place for the international karate scene on the weekend of March 21st and 22nd, 2026. Welcomed the international grandmasters of Shotokan karate

On Friday evening, 30 participants from Berlin and Brandenburg, including brown and black belts, welcomed the aforementioned international grandmasters of Shotokan karate. After a brief round of introductions and a dynamic warm-up, the focus for this advanced level was on the principles of the moment: precision, posture, timing, technique, and above all, the spirit – and how these can be vividly implemented in practice.

Throughout the weekend, intensive training sessions followed with Sensei Takeshi Kitagawa, 9th Dan from the USA/Japan, and Sensei Enver Cakiqi, 9th Dan from Albania. Over 260 karateka from various clubs and German states trained side by side and learned directly from the grandmasters.

Meet the grandmasters in person.

On Saturday and Sunday, intermediate and beginner karate students, along with numerous other practitioners, joined the group to meet the grandmasters in person. The program included Kihon, the precise execution of basic techniques from stances and punches to kicks; Kata, prescribed sequences of movements for training timing and concentration; Kumite, partner exercises and sparring for the practical application of techniques; technical combinations to improve agility, speed, and coordination; and the core principles of Shotokan karate, including posture, distance control, reaction time, and the sense for the right moment to strike – all taught practically by the international masters. The principle of “one moment” in Japanese, “Ichigo-Ichi e” was also discussed in detail and then practiced.

A particular highlight was the belt examination, in which 193 candidates – including numerous children, teenagers, and adults from DTSKF clubs – took on the challenge. Under the expert eyes of six DTSKF master examiners, they demonstrated their skills and received new ranks. Of particular note was the examination of Tabea Schulz, who successfully passed her 1st Dan exam.

Berlin became an international meeting place for Shotokan Karate

This weekend, Berlin became an international meeting place for Shotokan Karate. In Müggelheim, on Monday evening, Sensei Takeshi Kitagawa, 9th Dan, came to the Berlin-Müggelheim sports hall for a farewell training session, inspiring the students one last time. Technique, tradition, community, and pride in personal achievements merged into an experience that will remain in the memories of all the karate practitioners for a long time. Osu!

Michael Bock

Chief Instructor of the DTSKF

Please check back here on the website for information about the 2027 Traditional Karate Easter Camp.
See you in 2027.

Selbstverteidigung & Karate Lehrgang für alle – Trainiere mit einem Top-Sensei

Du hast Bock auf Karate? Du hast Bock auf Selbstverteidigung? Dann ist dieser Lehrgang genau das Richtige für Dich!
Erlebe intensives Training im traditionellen Karate und (oder) verbessere Deine Fähigkeiten in der Selbstverteidigung – praxisnah, effektiv und für jedes Level geeignet.

Wann? 25.04.2026
Wo? Turnhalle Sandau · Fehnweg 1 · 39524 Sandau  maps
Was? Selbstverteidigung für alle Vormittag 10.00 Uhr bis 11.30 Uhr , Karate Lehrgang 12:00 bis 16:30

Trainiere mit einem der besten Karate-Lehrer Deutschlands

Mit Sensei Michael Bock (8. Dan) erwartet Dich ein echtes Highlight:
Ein hochkarätiger Trainer, der Dich persönlich coacht und Dein Karate auf das nächste Level bringt.

Egal ob Anfänger oder Fortgeschrittener – Du profitierst von:

– fundiertem Karate-Wissen
– effektiven Selbstverteidigungstechniken
– individueller Korrektur und Motivation

Trainingszeiten & Gruppen

Der Karate- Lehrgang ist optimal nach Graduierungen aufgeteilt:

– 12:00 – 13:15 Uhr → 9. Kyu – 6. Kyu
– 13:30 – 14:45 Uhr → 5. Kyu – Dan
– 15:15 – 16:30 Uhr → alle Graduierungen

So bekommst Du genau das Training, das zu Deinem Niveau passt.

Preise – flexibel & fair

– Selbstverteidigungskurs: 20 €
– Karate-Lehrgang: 20 €
– Kombi-Angebot: beide Kurse zusammen nur 30 €

👉 Perfekt, wenn Du sowohl Technik als auch praktische Anwendung lernen möchtest!

Verpflegung & Anmeldung

Für Dein Wohl ist gesorgt – Verpflegung gibt es direkt vor Ort.

📅 Anmeldung bis zum 18.04.2026
Kurzentschlossene sind natürlich ebenfalls herzlich willkommen!

📧 Vereinsanmeldungen bitte per Mail an:
karateverein-havelberg@web.de

Warum Du dabei sein solltest

– Lerne effektive Selbstverteidigung
– Verbessere Dein Karate unter Profi-Anleitung
– Trainiere in motivierender Atmosphäre
– Für Einsteiger und Fortgeschrittene geeignet

Jetzt Platz sichern!

Warte nicht zu lange – sichere Dir Deinen Platz und werde stärker, sicherer und selbstbewusster.

Bock auf Karate? Bock auf Selbstverteidigung?
👉 Dann sehen wir uns auf der Matte!

Flyer PDF hier

Self-Defense & Karate Combo Course – For Everyone, April 25, 2026
Train with a Top Sensei

Are you interested in karate? Are you interested in self-defense? Then this course is just right for you!
Experience intensive training in traditional karate and (or) improve your self-defense skills – practical, effective, and suitable for all levels.

When? April 25, 2026
Where? Sandau Gymnasium · Fehnweg 1 · 39524 Sandau maps
What? Self-defense for all: 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM; Karate course: 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM

Train with one of Germany’s top karate instructors

With Sensei Michael Bock (8th Dan), a real highlight awaits you:
A world-class trainer who will coach you personally and take your karate to the next level.

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner—you’ll benefit from:

– in-depth karate knowledge
– effective self-defense techniques
– personalized feedback and motivation

Training Times & Groups

The karate course is optimally organized by rank:

– 12:00 – 1:15 PM → 9th Kyu – 6th Kyu
– 1:30 – 2:45 PM → 5th Kyu – Dan
– 3:15 – 4:30 PM → all ranks

This way, you’ll get exactly the training that suits your level.

Prices – Flexible & Fair

– Self-defense course: €20
– Karate course: €20
– Combo offer: both courses together for only €30

👉 Perfect if you want to learn both technique and practical application!

Food & Registration

We’ve got you covered – food is available on-site.

📅 Registration deadline: April 18, 2026
Last-minute participants are, of course, also welcome!

📧 Please send club registrations via email to:
karateverein-havelberg@web.de

Why You Should Join

– Learn effective self-defense
– Improve your karate under professional guidance
– Train in a motivating atmosphere
– Suitable for beginners and advanced practitioners
Secure your spot now!

Don’t wait too long – secure your spot and become stronger, safer, and more confident.

Interested in karate? Interested in self-defense?
👉 Then see you on the mat!

The European Traditional Karate Union (ETKU), in cooperation with the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF) and hosted by the Traditional Karate Association Serbia, has the great pleasure of inviting you to participate in the:

38th ETKU European Traditional Karate Championship
& European Children’s Cup 2026

📍 Location: Novi Sad, Serbia
📅 Date: April 30 – May 3, 2026
👥 Categories: Children, Cadets, Juniors, Youth, Seniors, Veterans

Premier ITKF Traditional Karate Event in Europe

The 38th ETKU European Championship is one of the most important ITKF Traditional Karate events in Europe. This championship represents excellence in:

-Traditional Kata and Kumite
-Technical precision under official ITKF rules
-Discipline, respect, and perseverance
-International friendship and cooperation

As an official ITKF Traditional Karate competition, the event guarantees high organizational standards and authentic traditional karate values.

Novi Sad – A City of Culture, Unity, and Tradition

Located at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe, Novi Sad offers a unique and inspiring setting for this prestigious championship. Known for its rich cultural heritage, openness, and vibrant spirit, the city provides the perfect backdrop for an event that goes beyond competition.

This championship celebrates:
– Reflection and unity
– Shared European values
– The preservation of traditional karate principles
– The strengthening of our international karate community

More Than a Competition – A Commitment to Traditional Karate

Participation in the ETKU European Traditional Karate Championship 2026 means more than striving for medals. It represents:

– Investment in the education and development of athletes
– Exchange of knowledge and experience among nations
– Support for youth development through traditional karate
– Strengthening the future of ITKF Traditional Karate in Europe

Each competitor contributes to preserving tradition while building a shared future based on mutual respect and common values.

Invitation to All National Federations

On behalf of ETKU, President Slobodan Milicevic cordially invites all national federations and countries to participate with the highest possible number of competitors. Together, we will make this championship a true tribute to our art, our community, and our shared karate spirit.

——

We sincerely look forward to welcoming you to Novi Sad, Serbia, from April 30 to May 3, 2026.

38th ETKU European Traditional Karate Championship & European Children’s Cup 2026. An Official ITKF Traditional Karate Event

With deepest respect and kind regards.

Should you require any additional information or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
We look forward to welcoming you to Novi Sad, Serbia, and to a successful and memorable event.

Organizing Committee
European Championship in Traditional Karate – Novi Sad 2026
European Children’s Cup – Novi Sad 2026
info@stks.rs

——

Downloads:

Invitation:

ITKF-ETKU-Novi-Sad-Serbia_2026.pdf

Accommodation arrangements for participants:
The document contains details about the official hotels, booking procedures, and other relevant information to help you organize your stay in Novi Sad during the event.

Accommodation_European Traditional Karate Championship_Novi Sad 2026.pdf

I would like to inform you about our 31st Easter Seminar 2026 in Berlin. Many renowned instructors have attended our seminars, including Sensei Nishiyama, Sensei Okazaki, Sensei Yaguchi, Sensei Wladimir and Ilija Jorga, Sensei Rick Jorgensen, and many more.
We look forward to the 31st Easter Seminar.
Have a safe journey and enjoy!

Sincerely,
Michael Bock, 8th Dan ITKF
Chief Instructor of the DTSKF

Read the review here

2026 instructors: Sensei Takeshi Kitagawa, Sensei Enver Cakiqi, Sensei Michael Bock

Sensei Takeshi Kitagawa – Hanshi
9. Dan
Japan Shotokan Karate-do
– Sankukai –

Sensei Enver Cakiqi – Hanshi
9. Dan WTKA
Albanien

Sensei Michael Bock
8. Dan
Chef Instruktor DTSKF

31. Osterlehrgang.pdf
31st Easter Seminar.pdf

The 31st PRAGUE OPEN KARATE CUP is one of Europe’s leading international tournaments in Traditional Fudokan Shotokan Karate. Hosted by the Czech Traditional Fudokan Shotokan Karate Federation, this prestigious event brings together karate athletes from across Europe and around the world in Prague.

The competition represents technical excellence, fair play, and the true spirit of traditional Budo.

📅 Date

May 30, 2026

📍 Venue

Sport Hall TJ Kobylisy
U Školské zahrady 430/9
Praha 8 – Kobylisy, Prague

🥋 Organizer

The tournament is officially organized by the Czech Traditional Fudokan Shotokan Karate Federation, one of the leading organizations for Traditional Fudokan Shotokan Karate in Europe.

🕘 Schedule & Program

09:00 – 09:30 a.m.
Registration

09:00 a.m.
Referees’ Meeting

09:30 a.m.
Start of Competitions

Eliminations
Semi-finals
Finals

06:00 p.m.
End of Competitions

International Traditional Karate at the Highest Level

The PRAGUE OPEN KARATE CUP offers high-level competition in traditional karate disciplines. The tournament is known for:

– Outstanding technical standards
– Professional organization
– International participation
– Authentic Fudokan Shotokan Karate spirit

Athletes, coaches, referees, and karate enthusiasts can expect an exciting day of competition in the heart of Europe.

Why Participate?

– Internationally recognized traditional tournament
– Excellent platform to test competitive performance
– Opportunity for international exchange
– Competition in the spirit of traditional Budo

Secure your place at one of the most important Traditional Fudokan Shotokan Karate events of 2026.

For further information regarding registration, categories, and participation details, please contact the Czech Traditional Fudokan Shotokan Karate Federation, Dipl.Ing. Rachmy Soebajo phone +420 608703235, mail : soebajo@volny.cz

Downloads:

2026 Prague Open Cup.pdf
Application 2026 Prague Cup.xlsx

The ITKF cannot be stopped

1st ITKF Winter Master Camp 2026 Strengthens Global Traditional Karate

ITKF International Traditional Karate Congress 2026 in Malaga-Fuengirola, Spain

From February 13 to 16, 2026, the first ITKF Winter Master Camp for instructors was successfully held in Malaga-Fuengirola, Spain. Organized by Sensei Ruben Cernuda, the event marked a major milestone for the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF) and its global development strategy.

Sensei Ruben Cernuda ITKF

The camp was led by Sensei Richard Jorgensen (9th Dan), Chairman of the ITKF, who served as Chief Training Director. With participants from eight nations and the full presence of the ITKF Board of Directors, the event demonstrated the growing international momentum of ITKF Traditional Karate.

Focus on ITKF Standardization and Technical Excellence

A central objective of the ITKF Winter Master Camp 2026 was the standardization of traditional karate according to the training program of Hidetaka Nishiyama. The ITKF continues to preserve and promote Nishiyama’s lineage, emphasizing technical precision, self-defense application, and unified global teaching standards.

In alignment with the regulations of the Hidetaka Nishiyama Karate Institute (HNKI), detailed discussions were conducted regarding:

– ITKF championship organization
– Global instructor certification standards
– Harmonized training guidelines
– Long-term technical leadership within Traditional Shotokan Karate

Sensei Jorgensen introduced newly developed instructor documents designed to further unify ITKF teaching methodology worldwide.

High-Level Technical Program: Kihon, Kata, Kumite & Budo

The technical curriculum reflected the classical ITKF training structure:

– Kihon (Basics) – precision, posture, and body mechanics
– Kata (Forms) – structure, rhythm, and application
– Kumite (Sparring) – timing, distance, and strategy
– Budo Philosophy – deeper understanding of martial principles

Special emphasis was placed on Kime, breathing techniques, Ki-ai, and the practical self-defense application of techniques. Sensei Jorgensen skillfully demonstrated the inseparable connection between Kihon, Kata, and Kumite—core principles of ITKF Traditional Karate.

Sensei Richard Jorgensen ITKF

During afternoon sessions, students were integrated into the program. This allowed instructors to apply and demonstrate structured ITKF teaching methods in real training environments.

ITKF Board Meeting & Global Expansion

On February 15, 2026, the second ITKF Board of Directors meeting took place. All discussions confirmed the organization’s clear and unified commitment to the teachings and technical standards established by Sensei Nishiyama.

A significant decision during the camp was the official admission of:

– State of Knights – Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem – Knights of Malta – Federation of the Autonomous Priories (KMFAP), under the leadership of Michael Bock.

This expansion reflects the continuous international growth of the ITKF and its mission to strengthen Traditional Karate worldwide.

ITKF Europe: Malaga as Future Winter Camp Base

The success of the 1st ITKF Winter Master Camp has positioned Malaga as a potential permanent European base for future ITKF winter events. Thanks to the strong organizational support of local instructors and the outstanding technical leadership, the camp created a highly professional yet friendly training atmosphere.

The spirit of unity, discipline, and technical excellence demonstrated that the ITKF is steadily regaining its former global strength.

ITKF 2026 Outlook: Stronger, United, and Growing

The ITKF Winter Master Camp 2026 clearly showed:

– Growing international participation
– Strong technical leadership
– Commitment to Nishiyama lineage
– Structured global instructor standardization
– Expanding ITKF membership worldwide

As ITKF Secretary General Michael Bock summarized: “The ITKF cannot be stopped.”

With a clear technical direction, international unity, and dedication to Traditional Karate, the International Traditional Karate Federation continues to move forward—stronger than ever.

From February 13–16, 2026, the International Traditional Karate Congress of the ITKF will take place in Mijas, Málaga, Spain. This special event brings together renowned masters of traditional karate: Sensei Richard Jorgensen, Sensei Michael Bock, Sensei Ruben Cernuda, Sensei Slobodan Milicevic, Sensei John P. Kataoka, and Sensei Dariusz Bajkowski. The congress is dedicated to international exchange, technical development, and the shared values of traditional karate.

Special training sessions for instructors, examiners, and karate practitioners in general.
Maintaining the high integrity of the ITKF’s technical approach.

In addition to this congress, we will have special training sessions for instructors, examiners, and karate practitioners in general. This event aims to lay the foundations for the future of traditional karate.
The objective of this seminar is to familiarize our most experienced members and their designated instructors with the technical requirements of the ITKF and to analyze the qualification requirements from 1st Dan to 6th Dan. This will contribute to maintaining the high integrity of the ITKF’s technical approach. Its aim is to clearly and unequivocally distinguish us from other, fraudulent ITKF organizations.

ITKF Summer Camp, Canada in July 2026

ITKF Summer Camp with Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama, San Diego, California

This Congress & Seminar allows our experienced members to obtain ITKF examiner qualifications and thus prepare the next generation of instructors. It also serves as a prelude to the ITKF Summer Camp, which will be held in Canada in July 2026. There, we will be summarizing the annual technical program of the ITKF International Summer Camp, an event previously held every summer in San Diego under the supervision of Sensei Nishiyama.

Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama and Sensei Michael Bock ITKF Summer Camp, San Diego (USA)

Registration International Traditional Karate Congress of the ITKF

For registration, you can contact ITKF Spain directly (iskahq@gmail.com) or register a few hours before the event begins at the entrance to the sports center.

The technical panel of the Congress & Seminar will be led by the following Senseis:

• Sensei Richard Jorgensen (Canada) 9th Dan – President of ITKF & Chief Instructor
• Sensei Michael Bock 8th Dan (Germany) – Secretary General of ITKF
• Sensei Slobodan Milicevic 8th Dan (Serbia) – President of ETKF
• Sensei Rubén Cernuda 8th Dan (Spain) – Director of ITKF Pan America
• Sensei Stojan Sestan 8th Dan (Slovenia) – Vice President of ETKF
• Sensei Dariusz Bajkowski 8th Dan (Poland) – President of the Education Committee
• Sensei John Price Kataoka 6th Dan (Japan) – Director of ITKF Asia
• Sensei Dave Smith 6th Dan (Canada) – Vice-president ITKF Pan American, Director of development North America