Pupils at Brighton College Dubai welcomed undefeated MMA world champion Dakota Ditcheva to campus last week, as the British fighter shared lessons on discipline, confidence, and the power of sport in shaping positive life choices.
The visit formed part of the College’s continued focus on pupil wellbeing, anchored in its values of curiosity, confidence, and kindness. Speaking across two assemblies, Ditcheva offered insight into the mindset behind her rise in combat sport, emphasising resilience, self-belief, and making constructive decisions both online and offline.
Sessions also touched on cyberbullying awareness and the role of sport in developing mental strength from a young age. Pupils engaged in open discussions, asking questions about overcoming stereotypes, managing expectations, and building confidence in high-pressure environments.
Reflecting on her time with pupils, Dakota said:
“Speaking to students across two assemblies today, I wanted to share the principles that have shaped my career; discipline, consistency, and belief in yourself. Nothing comes easy in life, but with hard work and dedication to your dreams, anything is possible.”
Ditcheva, a former Muay Thai champion turned mixed martial artist, has built a perfect 15–0 professional record, including 12 knockouts, and has claimed both PFL European and World titles. Recognised by multiple industry publications as Female Fighter of the Year, she was also included in ESPN’s Top 25 Global Stars set to redefine sport in the 21st century.
Born in Greater Manchester and introduced to martial arts through her mother, a multiple-time world champion, Ditcheva has become one of the most prominent figures in women’s MMA. Now dividing her time between Miami, where she trains, and Dubai, she holds long-term residency in the UAE, serves as an ambassador for Visit Dubai, and has established business interests in the region alongside her athletic career.
Her visit also marked the official opening of Brighton College Dubai’s annual ‘Run for A Reason’ charity initiative. Held on campus on Friday, 6 February, the early-morning event brought together more than 600 participants from the Senior School, Prep, and Pre-Prep, alongside parents and staff, many dressed as superheroes.
Funds raised from this year’s event will support the Ta’alouf programme run by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health. The programme, whose name translates to “harmony” in Arabic, supports People of Determination by equipping parents, educators, and caregivers with practical tools to better respond to individual needs and behavioural challenges.
Mr. Simon Crane, Head Master of Brighton College Dubai, commented:
“Having Dakota visit the College was incredibly inspiring for our pupils, giving them the chance to hear directly from a high-achieving role model and see the attitudes and habits that sit behind success. At Brighton College Dubai, we place equal importance on academic achievement, sporting excellence and personal wellbeing, and experiences like this help reinforce those values in a meaningful and memorable way. It was also wonderful to have her open this year’s Run for a Reason and see our entire community come together around a shared purpose.”
The annual Run for a Reason initiative remains central to the College’s approach to combining sport, charitable engagement, and purposeful learning, creating experiences designed to leave a lasting impact on its community.
For more information about Brighton College Dubai, visit https://www.brightoncollegedubai.ae/
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