About us
How SOMA Started
Three migrant women from diverse backgrounds met in Barcelona through their shared passion for martial arts and experienced firsthand its powerful impact on mental well-being, confidence, and social connection.
The realization: these benefits should not be reserved for those with the financial means or the confidence to access traditional martial arts spaces.
SOMA Association was born from this understanding that martial arts can serve as a practical tool for addressing real barriers faced by people at risk of social and economic exclusion.
Our Unique Approach
To this end, we bring together:
- Hands-on expertise from active martial arts practitioners with experience in teaching, inclusion, and migration issues
- A human rights–based approach that focuses on strength, potential, and dignity rather than victimization
- A triangulated methodology combining physical training, value and skills development, and social events
- Evidence-based practice through continuous evaluation and academic dissemination of outcomes
The SOMA Method
- Physical Training - Structured martial arts instruction that builds strength, coordination, and confidence
- Personal Development - Cultivation of both positive personal values -discipline, humility, self-confidence-, and social values -gender equality, inclusion and diversity, human rights and civic engagement-
- Unlocking Potential - Educational workshops and interactive sessions to strengthen personal skills such as independence and leadership
- Community Building - Social events and connections that create belonging and strengthen relationships
We combine expertise in academia, law, education and martial arts training to create structured programs that go beyond physical techniques. Our approach focuses on building mental resilience, fostering social connections and developing practical skills for personal and professional growth.
Get to know us
Sevda Tunaboylu
Co-Founder
Sevda holds a PhD in Political and Social Sciences, originally from Türkiye, she is currently based at the University of Barcelona (UB) as a postdoctoral researcher with over 10 years experience in the field of migration. Her research often involves working together with refugee and migrant communities adopting a human-rights based approach. Sevda is also a dedicated Muay Thai practitioner and aspiring instructor.
Verena Walther
Co-Founder
Verena has a background in law and social sciences, with professional experience on migration and human rights. She is currently studying to become a psychologist and actively training in Muay Thai. Passionate about movement and the mind-body connection, she sees martial arts as a powerful tool not only for personal growth but also for building and strengthening communities.
Erin Stuckenbruck
Co-Founder
Erin holds a Master's in Teaching Mathematics and co-owns Ruckus Athletics, a Muay Thai studio in Barcelona, where she also trains and coaches. Drawing from both her educational background and martial arts journey, she sees training as a powerful tool for personal transformation and believes that everyone deserves access to spaces where they can challenge themselves, develop confidence and perseverance, and contribute to building more inclusive communities.