Kajukenbo Family Tree

The Kajukenbo Family Tree: A Legacy of Tradition and Unity

The Kajukenbo Family Tree is a living archive that traces the lineage of black belts who have carried on the legacy of Kajukenbo across generations. Created by Senior Grand Master (SGM) Philip Gelinas and his wife, Ruth Gelinas, the Family Tree has become a vital part of Kajukenbo history. It honors the dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance of those who have helped build and preserve the art.

For decades, the Family Tree has connected martial artists from around the world, serving as an evolving map of our shared heritage. The work began in the 1970s as a personal quest by SGM Gelinas to understand his own lineage, but it soon grew into one of the most important records in Kajukenbo history.

A New Chapter for the Family Tree

As SGM Gelinas and Ruth pass the torch, Kajukenbo.com (Reyes Kajukenbo Archive) and KSDI are honored to continue the stewardship of this invaluable historical record. Under the guidance of Glen Fraticelli – Director of Operations, KSDI, and Christopher Reyes, son of Senior Grandmaster Alan M. Reyes and grandson of Great Grandmaster Aleju “Al” C. Reyes, the Family Tree will continue to be preserved and updated, ensuring it remains a source of pride for future generations.

How to Be Listed on the Kajukenbo Family Tree

Being listed on the Kajukenbo Family Tree is a mark of honor and recognition. To preserve the integrity of the art and its lineage, we follow a respectful and structured process.

Step 1: Join the Community

First, become a member of the Kajukenbo.com community. This gives you access to registration and helps us stay connected.

Step 2: Register as a Black Belt

To be considered for the Family Tree, you must be a Registered Black Belt. This includes submitting your lineage, rank, and a clear photo of your Black Belt certificate. If your certificate is unavailable, we will work with your instructor to verify your credentials.

Step 3: Receive Instructor Recommendation

Only instructors recognized within the Kajukenbo community may recommend you for inclusion on the Family Tree. This step ensures that every name on the Tree is vouched for by a trusted source.

Once these steps are complete, your submission will be reviewed and, if accepted, officially added to the Kajukenbo Family Tree—cementing your place in our shared legacy.

Join Here: kajukenbo.com/community

We are deeply grateful for the legacy entrusted to us, and we are excited to continue building on it. Together, we’ll keep the Kajukenbo tradition alive for future generations.