Our Mission
Purple Dragon, an international leader in the martial arts industry, is committed to providing the highest standard of self-defense and fitness systems to all its members. Our certified instructors – all trained in Don Jitsu Ryu – deliver the most practical and all-inclusive instruction through innovative and exclusive programs. We are dedicated to maintaining our reputation of integrity as we continue to expand our global reach.
“My goal was simply to build a family – to lead the expansion of Don Jitsu Ryu while respecting the essence of our art. My students are an extension of my family. I want each one of them to achieve their personal best while helping spread martial arts. We must do that honoring the traditions and efforts of those who came before us.”
Professor Don Jacob, Founder
Our Story
In 1970, Professor Don Jacob founded the Purple Dragon Don Jitsu Ryu System® in Trinidad & Tobago. What began as a single dojo has grown into the largest private martial arts organization in the Caribbean, with a presence spanning the globe.
Having visited six of seven continents and over 70 countries, Professor Jacob has inspired hundreds of thousands of martial arts enthusiasts through workshops, lectures, tournaments, and grading events – leaving a positive, lasting impression wherever he goes.
Today, thousands of members practice Don Jitsu Ryu in 50+ dojos located across the Caribbean, Canada, the United States, and Europe. For over 30 years, we have dominated the region in terms of membership and the highest standards of instruction.
55+
Years of Excellence
50+
Dojos Worldwide
70+
Countries Visited
6
Continents Reached
Why Don Jitsu Ryu?
Character Development
Purple Dragon has transformed thousands of lives, from young children to adults, through character development. Our instructors are trained to see to the needs of each individual student, boosting confidence, self-worth, integrity, and discipline.
Real-World Application
Our students learn to apply themselves at school, work, and in all areas of life. Patience, self-control, respect, and humility help them deal with difficult social situations and figures of authority with confidence.
Individual Greatness
Whether you yearn to learn self-defense or seek to obtain the highest degree in martial arts, Purple Dragon’s principles remain rooted. Once applied, individual greatness is achievable and anticipated.
Our Leadership
Professor Don Jacob
Founder & Creator of Purple Dragon Don Jitsu Ryu System® | 9th Degree Black Belt (Hanshi)
Grandmaster Professor Don Jacob, born in Trinidad & Tobago, founded the Purple Dragon Don Jitsu Ryu System® in 1970. With over five decades of martial arts study, he holds a 9th Degree Black Belt and the title of Grandmaster (Hanshi).
In his prime, he competed worldwide, traveling to over 70 countries across six continents. His students compete in major tournaments in Fighting, Forms, Self Defense, Weaponry, and Demonstrations. Grandmaster Jacob has appeared on ABC’s Wide World of Sports (USA) and Trans World Sports (UK).
He has authored several books including High Impact Jiu-Jitsu, Fighting Man’s Bible, and Don Jitsu Ryu: Flesh and Bone. Grandmaster Jacob was inducted into the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame (1991) and received Trinidad & Tobago’s highest citizen award – the Humming Bird Gold Medal – in 2010.
Shihan Adrian Browne
Head Instructor, Purple Dragon North York | 6th Degree Black Belt
Shihan Adrian has been a member of the Purple Dragon team since 1995, training under Grandmaster Professor Don Jacob and Sensei Wendell Small. He currently operates Purple Dragon Toronto Dojo in Ontario, Canada.
He has travelled with the Purple Dragon team to Tobago, Tortola, Grenada, and the USA, representing the organization at various events and competitions.
Shihan Adrian is deeply passionate about teaching and serving the community. His dedication to his students – ranging from children to adults – focuses on developing discipline, confidence, self-worth, and helping them become positive human beings in this world.
Begin Your Journey Today
Join our family at Purple Dragon North York and discover the transformative power of Don Jitsu Ryu martial arts. Whether you’re 5 or 55, there’s a place for you on our mat.