- Justin Lee Ford
- May 31
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 8
The following is a snippet of a feature found exclusively in the Spring 2025 issue of Black Belt Magazine.
From Karate Champs to Industry Innovators
Have you ever watched a movie or TV show and thought, I could do that? For many martial artists, the dream is to take years of dedication and skill and turn it into a career on the big screen.
Justin Ortiz and Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz did just that. After earning NASKA world champion titles, they traveled the globe as two of the most sought-after instructors in the industry and then immersed themselves in the world of Hollywood, learning firsthand what it takes to succeed in action filmmaking.
Now, they’re sharing that knowledge—helping martial artists of all skill levels turn their passion into opportunity. From bright-eyed beginners throwing their first punch to seasoned competitors looking to break into the industry, Justin Ortiz and Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz stand as both mentors and trailblazers, showing the world that martial arts isn’t just a discipline—it’s a gateway to limitless possibilities.
The Beginning: A Leap of Faith
Justin Ortiz’s martial arts career took off in his early twenties when he realized his passion extended beyond just competing. A pivotal moment came when a life coach, Christina Cooper Foster, recognized his potential and helped him reshape his mindset. Growing up, Ortiz had never considered the vast opportunities available beyond traditional martial arts instruction. Through her guidance, he learned that success was a matter of choice and strategy.
Jewlianna Ramos-Ortiz, an accomplished martial artist specializing in forms and weapons, shared a similar drive to push beyond traditional competition. With an extensive background in performance-based martial arts and an unyielding drive in life, she understood the power of combining technique with storytelling, a perspective that would later shape their joint ventures.
To read the interview, be sure to order your copy of Black Belt's Spring 2025 Issue!
