Member Spotlight: Desi Beqja

For our second Member Spotlight of 2025 (first blog), we’re thrilled to feature the incredible Desi Beqja!

Desi is an absolute joy to have in class. She consistently brings positivity, focus, and infectious energy to every session—making our jobs as coaches that much easier. Whether she’s asking thoughtful questions, pushing herself to the limit, or lending a hand to newer members, Desi embodies the spirit of PSE in every way.

We’re proud to celebrate Desi this month and shine the spotlight on someone who truly represents what it means to be part of the PSE community. Way to go, Desi!

Q:  What do you like about training, and how has it helped you in your day-to-day life?

A:  Most forms of training help you physically, but kickboxing has done so much more for me, it’s made me feel stronger, improved my reaction time, and sharpened my mental focus. When people ask me what I get out of it, I often tell them it’s my form of meditation. It might sound crazy, but the most important thing during training is being present. Kickboxing helps me stay focused, relieve stress, and maintain mindfulness. It’s also taught me how to cope with frustration and anxiety, making me a calmer person overall and helping me keep my emotions in check. Over time, I’ve constantly pushed myself and been amazed by what I can accomplish. My younger self, someone who never trained in sports, would be unrecognizable to me now and would be incredibly proud of the version of me that training has created.

Q:  Why do you like training at PSE?

A:  Training at PSE has been an incredible experience. The classes feel almost like small private sessions, with drills that are tailored to fit your individual needs. The coaches here are not only incredibly skilled but genuinely care about your growth. They push you to be your best while ensuring that the environment is both fun and challenging.

Coach Brooks made sure to guide me safely through training when my knee was injured, staying patient each class by explaining exactly what I needed to work on to improve. Coach Ramy pushes you to unlock new potential, while Coach Jaime tailors exercises to suit your style, ensuring that you always feel challenged but never out of your depth. What I love most is that the coaches are open to feedback and continuously adapt the classes, so I’m always learning something new and never get bored. My teammates are always there to help me get better, offering guidance and encouragement, constantly pushing me to reach new heights. The atmosphere at PSE makes training feel like more than just a workout; it’s a place where we all share a love for growth and improvement, both physically and mentally.

Q:  What advice would you give to other women who are beginning their journey in combat sports/martial arts?

A:  As a woman who didn’t really get into sports until adulthood, my advice is simple: just go for it. You’ll quickly discover that there’s a supportive community out there, eager to see you grow, improve, and become the strongest version of yourself. Whether it’s boxing, kickboxing, or grappling, the investment is not only physical but also mental. Plus, it’s a great way to make new friends who share the same drive as you. 😊

Q:  What are your hobbies/interests outside of training?

A:  Outside of training, I really enjoy traveling, playing beach volleyball, and cooking. I’m hoping to pick up tennis this summer and maybe even learn some judo throws at the gym. Honestly, I feel like one lifetime won’t be enough to try everything I want to do. There’s just so much out there to explore and enjoy!

Q:  What are your combat sports goals?

A:  My ultimate goal in combat sports is simple: I want to be able to practice and train even when I’m old and grey. I want to explore as many different disciplines as I can throughout my life and discover what I enjoy most. Even as a hobbyist, I would love to have a well-rounded knowledge of various combat sports. My mindset in life is a bit of everything, and I apply that to my approach to combat sports. The idea of exploring different disciplines allows me to gather a wide range of experiences and skills.