Kai Bennetts (Cammeraygal 2023)

"Harrison Saito is a man who doesn't stop at anything to find truth within himself. His relentless pursuit for understanding the life we live in is one that I've never seen before and has inspired me to look deeper within myself. Even within that one statement of 'looking deeper within' is one that Harrison could dissect, bringing forward a complex/intertwined discussion of many perspectives and simplifying it for anyone to understand. He instilled within me the importance of English as a subject, not just in my schooling experience but in being able to expand on my ability to understand the complexity within situations.On a more personal level, Harrison has been one of my greatest mentors. He is kind, understanding, empathetic and someone that I have always gone to whenever I need advice. On top of this, he is one of the hardest workers I have seen, whether this be in his personal growth or daily life."

Harshil Dave

"Harrison Saito is a man of many skills but one motive, "to help others." I first met Harrison at KPS and ever since, he has been a sensei, a friend and an unwavering guiding voice. His teachings and philosophy go beyond the physical and transcends the mental to arrive at a spiritual plane.

I was very intrigued with how he taught karate. I learned how to be calm by being in a state of panic: I learned to finish to the end of the line by stopping halfway over and over again: I learned to be free by imposing restrictions on myself.

Harrison has taught me many things about the art of fighting and myself through his training. He has comforting yet firm voice that is a constant reminder for me to "be decisive." I will forever be grateful for such a presence in my life."

Nick Aravindhan

"I decided to learn martial arts from Shinbukan during my time in Sydney. Harrison was my trainer and I would strongly recommend him to anyone who is keen on learning martial arts, attaining physical fitness, or developing mental wellness. Harrison has been one of the most prominent figures in my martial arts journey. When I first started my lesson with Harrison, I will admit it was physically demanding. At the same time however, it was absolutely fulfilling. Harrison was encouraging and he gave the training purpose through his wisdom and guidance. Through several more sessions, the training became even better. Through Harrison's tutelage, I discovered more about the martial arts world and myself. My time training under Harrison is a major highlight of my life and I cannot thank him enough."

Tammie Wong

"Harrison taught my daughter for 3 years as an English tutor from year 10 to the end of year 12. He was always very helpful, thoughtful and encouraging. I believe he was/is a very unique tutor who takes students to higher levels by helping them find their own potential. My daughter became an All Rounder and was rank 1 in English for her grade with Harrison's help. Through his help, my daughter not only improved her marks but also learnt how to cope with stressful events in life. I am very grateful to have had Harrison teaching my daughter.

Vincent Smith

"Throughout my high school education, I had many diverse tutors who all excelled in teaching academically but Harrison was the only one who taught me beyond what I needed in the classroom. He is a heavily motivated individual with a passion to better those he meets in the classroom and as a person. His attitude in life and positive mindset truly gave me strength to be better."

Alex Wei

"Harrison Saito, in the short time I knew him, has been one of the most influential figures in my life. Through Karate, he has given me a path of purpose and to be part of something larger than myself. I could not thank him enough for his admirable wiseness, experience and could not recommend Harrison more."

Andy Horvath

"I think a lot of us get stuck on the idea of what to practice in life. Whether it be BJJ, MMA, boxing, drumming, dancing, photography, art... My suggestion would be to find something that lights your inner fire. When it comes to martial arts, there is no right or wrong martial arts to train in and you can forget about the finish line. What's more important is the journey and process. You will reach the end of the line one way or another (if you're lucky enough to make it there of course) and you will figure that out along the way. We always seem fixated on the end goal. When I do this, I'll be happy/better. When I get this, I'll be happy/better etc etc. Round and round we go. No matter the colour of your belt, the status you hold in your job, the amount of money you make a year, the amount of followers you have bla bla... All of that is superfluous compared to the time we have in the present moment and how we choose to use it. I'm not saying to give those things up, they may be the fire you have in your belly and that's cool. I strugge with many things in life (and I don't mean for this to be proclamation of the self). I really want to express the idea of finding something that challenges you in a positive way, both physically and mentally. Karate is the perfect bridge between physical and psychological. Not only do you deal with strength, balance, stamina and physical resilience, the mental game takes you even deeper. Understanding and connecting with the body on a deeper level which also happens to cross over in everyday life. Structure, beauty, patience and fortitude are just some of the positives to take away from this practice. The Japanese have cultivated this way of life for centuries and although I've only scratched the surface, I feel more connected everyday. Thank you Harrison for your guidance and for teaching me. Love."

Jimmy Verykios

"Before training at KPS in Waterloo, I had attended a few gyms and could never find my place until I decided to join in on Harrison's karate class. After observing, I noticed how much of a challenge it was and saw it as an opportunity to grow as a participant in martial arts. I remember asking him if I needed a Gi to train and he said "we'll give you a Gi when we see that you are taking it seriously." After reflecting on that, I realised that was the first lesson. Eliminating all ego and pride, display integrity and keep to your word. As Harrison says, "your word is your bible." I was raised with strong moral values and I wanted to show Harrison that I was worth teaching. How he understood me as a student and as a person meant a lot to me because I respected him a lot. I didn't even care about the Gi, I just wanted to work on being a better person day by day with his guidance. Immediately, joining in, he made me feel at home wherever we were, as home became a concept that transcended physical place. We established a mutual understanding of being present and purpose driven and seeing the integrity within an individual based on how they train, how they carry the lessons of martial arts throughout life. We also discuss patterns whether it be dissecting a round house kick frame by frame or a behavioral pattern and recognise the source of it to lay better foundations. This encourages balance and being the mediator of holding yourself on the central, narrow path. I'm grateful to have him as a mentor, teacher and friend and value how he holds me accountable for everything and allow me to see the good in myself without ego. Harrison will always push you to try new experiences that challenges you physically and mentally as you shift your perspective from a macro an micro sale inside and outside the dojo. His voice will definitely echo in your mind in everyday life as I often catch myself doing 'horse sance' in the most ordinary situations. It's become a habit and I start laughing when I notice it because I'm aware of all the new healthy habits I'm doing consciously. It makes me very happy that one baby step at a time, I'm growing as an individual because of all these lessons. I've also never seen someone smash a whole Oporto's chicken like Harrison does. That's definitely an experience too. Much love bro."

Meg's Parents

"Our daughter is not quick to open up to many people. However, we noticed that this was very different with Harrison, as there was trust that she had for him that for many she didn't. In her final year of high school, Harrison fostered a confidence within our daughter as she learned to trust herself and her abilities and as a result her English marks improved. We are so appreciative of Harrison."

Keiko (Kai's Mum) Cammeraygal High

"Harrison is a very enthusiastic and experienced tutor. He not only focuses on improving my son's areas of needs but guides my son on achieving his maximum potential. I am please that my son is learning so much from him."

Scott and Lisa (Covey and Lochie's parents)

"Harrison is a deep thinker, an excellent teacher and a caring and humble soul. With the uncertainties of the world at the moment, one thing that is for certain is that the children have stability in maintaining their weekly online lessons with Harrison. Harrison's lessons are a safe place for the children to connect, learn about themselves, their lives and the world around them. As a homeschooling family, we are constantly learning and growing and looking for ways which can develop the children's natural gifts and interests. This is what lead us to the beginning of our journey with Harrison, who certainly is contributing to the children's learning, growth and development. Our children aged 7 and 10 years, have been ongoing karate students of Harrison throughout this year and it is without a doubt that their weekly lessons have been very beneficial for the whole family. Harrison is dedicated to the journey he is on with his students, his lessons are always practical as he brings awareness of connections between his teachings and the children's lives. He is patient and takes the time necessary to develop basic skills, while still motivating and encouraging the children to develop their confidence and humility. Harrison is kind, compassionate and genuinely cares for his students and their families. Harrison is very intelligent and has a lot of wisdom for his age while having a gift of being able to communicate respectfully with people of all ages. Harrison's teaching style and individual personality are also influencing our parenting in positive ways. Each week, I see the bond strength between teacher and student; while Harrison maintains a professional role as the teacher, he is capable of creating a connection that is significant to the boys' lives; which I believe will continue as they grow from children to adults. This is a gift, I am grateful for as beyond the skills of martial arts, there are lifelong lessons entwined through his interactions and teachings that are already helping the children grow and mature. This is contributing to strengthening our own family relationships and strengthening the bond between parent to child and sibling to sibling. We are very blessed as parents to have found such a wonderful karate teacher, who brings such joy to our children's lives. Our children are blessed to be under the wing of Harrison Saito; together we are on a truly magnificent journey.

Edison Fernandez

"I had the pleasure to attend Harrison's classes in karate and would happily recommend him for anyone interested in martial arts or even general fitness. I found a great improvement in my technique and overall wellbeing (especially in hip mobility) which is thanks to Harrison's sharp eye for detail that provided a better direction in my training. Detail is important in the time where it is rare to find technical trainers. Furthermore, a bonus to this experience was the enlightening conversations I had with Harrison where I personally benefited from those discussions to this day." Edison Fernandez, karate class student at Kick Punch Submit, Waterloo, 2022

Covey and Lochie

"Hi I'm Covey a 7 year old student of Harrison. Harrison keeps us fit and Harrison is kind. Sometimes training might get a little bit boring but it's worth it because I will get strong, which will help me live longer. Before my lesson I feel excited because it is fun." (Covey, 7 y.o. online karate student) "I do karate lessons every Saturday with my karate teacher Harrison Saito. I like that Harrison encourages us to get stronger and teaches us taht we can get through hard times; he also helps us calm our mind. I like that Harrison teaches us some very important things about life, that aren't just used for karate. Harrison is kind and I enjoy his lessons." )Lochie, 10 y.o. online karate student) Covey and Lochie, online karate students, 2023

Kei Yomoda

"Before I met Harrison, I spent my day to day life without much thought and little questioning towards my actions. I never would have thought this lack of fulfilment and satisfaction within myself was a result of these factors. Tutoring being something I always dreaded, I quickly found myself looking forward to these lessons as it was like no ordinary tutoring I have had before. Without a doubt, he would help me with English essays and assessments but during the little but valuable time I spent with him, I noticed that I was constantly exposed to his philosophical and methodological way of thinking. Through his views and advice, not only did it allow me to produce meaningful compositions but also truly inspired me to strive to become like Harrison who showed genuine sense of apathy for people around him, sharing respected life lessons and someone who always believes regardless of the circumstances presented in front. Something I strongly believe is that everything happens for a reason. As I look back now from my first face to face lesson in year 11 to the final bittersweet lesson online before the HSC exam, I can only wish that I wish I met Harrison earlier but yet if too early would I be too immature to understand what his lessons meant? From someone who I expected to be just an English tutor, became such a prominent figure in my life and ultimately becoming someone I confident can say a mentor has sincerely changed me positively as a person. Till this current day I still reminisce and think about the lessons I have learnt.

Marissa Wong (Chatswood High)

"Harrison was my English tutor from year 10 through to year 12, providing me lessons once a week. As well as teaching me key academic skills required such as analysing techniques, applyinng them and writing essays, he also taught me various things outside of English and academics which I continue to apply to my life. Before being taught by Harrison, I struggled with the subject and was getting Cs and Bs average but since our regular lessons by year 12, I became rank 1 in my grade and I felt more confident when it came to tests and assignments. I was also able to do well in other subjects as Harrison taught me the importance of time management, organisation and allowing me to better allocate and divide me time between studying and personal time. While Harrison's teachings and guidance helped me when it came to improving my grades and understanding the subject matter, more importantly he made sure our lessons were always enjoyable as well as productive. Although I don't particularly enjoy studying, I genuinely looked forward to and enjoyed our lessons and life talks. Thanks to Harrison's continual guidance, support and encouragement, I was able to achieve the ATAR I was aiming for, but also gained a better understanding of myself and what I am capable of when I put the work in. I am grateful to have had Harrison as my tutor for those 3 years and know he will continue to have a positive impact on the lives of many others. "

Kiyomi Griffiths (Shoaland's mum)

"Harrison has been helping my son in academic achievements for 5 years. He has many years of experience in teaching and therefore, his advice is very accurate and is followed by step by step. He also communicates with my son not only about studies but also about interesting matters like high school life and so on. My son, Shoaland is able to open up about his worries and troubles to Harrison as he relies on him like an older brother."

Meg Rolfe (Brigidine College St Ives)

"Harrison was my English tutor during year 12 and is one of few people who has made a profound impact on my life. For many, tutoring sessions can become somewhat of a chore, however, this was never the case with him. Tutoring with Harrison was way more than just doing what needed to be done to get good marks but were also lessons on life and in that final year of high school when the real world was on my door step, his guidance was instrumental in shaping me to be the person I am today. Not only did my English marks improve drastically but so did the confidence in myself and as I thought more deeply about issues and life, my place in the world became more and more evident. When I first met Harrison, I was a shy girl unsure of herself, however, by the end of year 12 I had developed a confidence within myself and my abilities and for that I will be forever grateful. In a stressful year, Harrison was a reassuring presence who was always there to remind me of the bigger picture. I truly believe had I not met Harrison, I would not be the person I am today, and because of that I feel so lucky to have met him."

Ruben Viglino

"I started training with Harrison a year ago and I can say that I'm very happy to have him as a coach. He has a great knowledge and is helping me very effectively in improving my self defense and fighting skills. He is very focus on little details that really help you to improve your game in every training session. If you want learn martial arts or even improve your skill I totally recommend him as a trainer."

Lance Perez (Marist North Shore)

"When I was studying for my HSC, I was having a lot of trouble with English and was recommended by a friend to start tutoring with Harrison. As a naive 17 year old student, I was struggling with my own expectations with HSC and as a result became quite anxious about my academic performance as I believed it would determine my future in university. Upon reflection of myself during that time, I would often impose a great amount of pressure to perform well and achieve high marks that would eventually deteriorate my own self-esteem, confidence and ultimately my own health. However, I noticed a positive change in myself with having lessons with Harrison, not only improvements in my writing capabilities but also in addressing these issues that I did not realise at that time. He was a positive influence in helping me realise the reality of the HSC and the examinations that it is only 'a test' and a 'pathway to university' which did not define myself as a human being. He raised an emphasis on focusing on the progression of my abilities and skills rather than results, through goals to have a sense of direction towards improvement. Overall with this perspective on the reality of HSC, and a focus on improving my skills, it has really made a productive impact on managing my expectations for the HSC and relieving myself from the burden to attain high marks. As a result, I actually experienced more academic success which has even persisted into my tertiary studies as I am in my second year of university studying a bachelor of nursing. I am very grateful for meeting a person like Harrison who has been a positive influence in my teenage years and his many lessons and teachings have become foundational to my holistic development as a young adult."

Shoaland Griffiths (St Pius X)

"Hey Harrison, I cannot express how grateful I am for the invaluable life lessons and experiences that you have shared with me over the years. Your guidance and support has helped me through my teenage years and schooling, and I have grown because of your influence. You have always been there to listen to me when I needed to talk, to offer sage advice when I was uncertain, and to encourage me when I needed a boost. Your mentorship has helped me to navigate challenges, discover my strengths, and pursue my passions with confidence. Through your example, I have learned the importance of hard work, determination and, and resilience. You have taught me to set goals, to work towards them with discipline and focus, and to never give up. Your unwavering belief in me has been a constant source of inspiration, and I am forever grateful for your encouragement and support.More than anything, you have taught me to experience life fully and to appreciate all of its ups and downs. Your wisdom and perspective have helped me to see the world in a new light, and I can gladly say I am becoming a better person because of it. Thank you Harrison, for all that you have done for me. Your mentorship and brotherhood has made a profound difference on life and will always cherish the memories and lessons that we have shared together."

Camilla: Lydia's mum (OMNIA Inclusive)

"I want to let you know how much I appreciate Harrison Saito and the team at Omnia. We have been clients of such services for several years and since Harrison has been assigned to my daughter, we have never received such personalised attention or understanding of Lydia's strengths, challenges and prospects in the job market. We are grateful for their sensible and creative efforts to secure employment for her and the jobs they've secured. Harrison is an excellent communicator and goes the extra mile. We couldn't ask for more able advocates and on the back of our experience, would be happy to recommend him."