In this episode of MHD Off the Record — South LA Highlights, host Chavonne Taylor sits down with Coach Dominic "Nick" Haider, founder of Guardian Project Los Angeles and Omni Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Coach Nick shares his personal journey from a bullied mixed-race kid who found refuge in martial arts through a scholarship, to a professional fighter, to a chef-turned-jiu-jitsu instructor dedicated to serving South LA youth.

The conversation explores how Guardian Project LA provides free jiu-jitsu training, mentorship, meals, and wellness resources at Harvard Park, South Park, and Algin Sutton Park through the LAPD's Community Safety Partnership (CSP) program. Coach Nick explains his philosophy of creating a safe, non-militarized space where kids can build confidence, resilience, and agency — drawing on lessons from his own childhood and his years running restaurant kitchens with a culture of care.

Resources

Website: guardianlosangeles.org

Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Community Announcement

Metro Vermont Transit Corridor Project — South LA, help shape the future of transit on Vermont Avenue. Metro's Vermont Transit Corridor Project is moving toward construction, and the decisions made now will affect how families, workers, students, and seniors travel for years to come. Join a community meeting August 10–15, in person or online, and make sure our neighborhoods are heard.

🔗 Learn more: metro.net/vermont