Sensei Leah Amato

Sensei Leah began her martial arts journey in 2003 at the Boston Karate Club, training under ISKF Godan Sensei Ali Mohajerani and achieving the rank of 3rd kyu. She officially joined the AIKA family in 2014 as an instructor for the Universal Karate class, working with children ages 4-6, alongside her two children, Dominic and Gabrielle.

In 2018, Leah earned her Shodan rank under Sensei DJ Oleski. A dedicated competitor, she regularly participates in the IPPONE circuit and international tournaments, earning third-place finishes in kata and sparring at the 2018 Ozawa Cup in Las Vegas, sparring at the Ozawa Cup in 2023, and kata at the 2021 USA Karate Nationals. She achieved her Nidan rank in 2020 and in 2024 was honored with the rank of Sandan and the title of Sensei under Sensei Christopher Amato.

Leah is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Boston, and Northeastern University, holding a BS in Biology and an MS in Biotechnology. Outside the dojo, she combines her passion for science and leadership as a Quality Consultant for multiple biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies.

In October, Leah transforms into the “Mistress of Darkness” to run Nightmare Marlborough, a non-profit haunted house benefiting the Marlborough Food Pantry, showcasing her creativity and commitment to giving back to the community.