About Us
Team Lions
Founded in 1989 by Grand Master Byun in Van Nuys, California, our academy has been dedicated to teaching the community the many benefits of Taekwondo for over three decades. Grand Master Byun’s efforts were bolstered in 2003 when Master Edvart joined forces, expanding our programs and leading us into the world of competitive Taekwondo.
Now, with over 30 years of experience, Lions Taekwondo Academy boasts a membership of over 1500 and has proudly awarded over 300 black belts to our qualified members.
“In order to be great, you have to do ordinary things in an extraordinary way”
Edward Wazhapetian
Master
5th degree certified black belt
ABOUT EDWARD
15 years of martial arts experience, 10 years of international competition experience, 9 years of international competition experience, 7 years Israel Junior National Team Member, World Taekwondo Federation recognition/appreciation award for the development and popularization of Taekwondo.
International competition record:
2000 French open – Gold
2000 Spain open – Gold
2001 Denmark open – Gold
2001 Belgium open – Gold
2001 French open – Gold
2001 Junior European championships (Spain) – Gold
2002 French open – Gold
2002 Holland open – Gold
2002 Junior World Championships (Greece) – Silver
2002 German open – Gold
Master Edward began practicing Tae Kwon Do at the age of 11. He earned his first black belt in a year and a half, having shown extreme determination and a gift for the sport. At the age of 14, Master Edward was invited to the Junior National Team for Israel because of his success in tournaments. He competed all over Europe and trained with some of the top Tae Kwon Do fighters in the world. After coming to the United States, Master Edward wanted to pass on his knowledge to a new generation. In 2003, he started teaching with Grand Master Byun; helping the school grow significantly and introducing Lion’s Taekwondo to national and international caliber tournaments. In 2007, Master Edward opened his school with the help of Grand Master Byun and Margrit (Master Edward’s sister). In 2009, Master Edward opened a new school in Sherman Oaks California and in 2015 moved it to a much larger location. With hard work and teamwork, Master Edward has been able to coach several State, National, and International Champions. Master Edward has also been recognized by World Taekwondo (the International Governing body of Taekwondo) for the development and popularization of Tae Kwon Do.
Bella Warzhapetian
Instructor
4th degree certified black belt
ABOUT BELLA
Eliza Iryami
Instructor
ABOUT ELIZA
I bring a wealth of experience in martial arts, with 6 years in taekwondo and self-defense, 3 years in karate, and 1 year in Krav Maga. Moreover, with a Master’s degree in Health Education and Promotion, currently pursuing studies in Nutrition Coaching, over 5 years of experience in teaching both children and adults in various disciplines, I have honed my skills in empowering individuals to lead healthier lifestyles. I am committed to promoting wellness, self-improvement, and the transformative power of martial arts in enhancing both physical and mental well-being. My personal mantra, “Taekwondo is a lifestyle. It is a way of living. I have enriched my life as a lifelong taekwondo practitioner. Let taekwondo accompany you, guide you, and penetrate into your blood!”
