About Us - Our Story and Mission | Walk Without Fear Trust

Our Story

The Walk Without Fear Trust was founded in memory of Liufau Tu'iha'angana Vake (Fau Vake), a beloved 25-year-old mixed martial artist whose life was tragically cut short by a coward punch attack in May 2021.

Fau was a rising star in New Zealand's MMA community, known for his skill, dedication, and warm personality. He trained at City Kickboxing alongside world champions and had a bright future ahead of him. His sudden and senseless death shocked the nation and highlighted the devastating impact of unprovoked street violence.

In the wake of this tragedy, Fau's friends, family, and the wider MMA community came together to ensure that his legacy would be one of positive change. The Walk Without Fear Trust was established to honor Fau's memory by working to eliminate the scourge of coward punches and street violence in New Zealand.

Through education, awareness, and community action, we are determined to prevent other families from experiencing the heartbreak that Fau's loved ones endured. Every life saved, every young person educated, and every community made safer is a tribute to Fau's memory.

What is a Coward Punch?

A coward punch (also known as a one-punch attack or sucker punch) is an unprovoked, sudden strike to the head or neck of an unsuspecting victim.

The Reality

These attacks often occur in social settings—outside bars, at parties, or on the street. The victim rarely sees it coming and has no chance to defend themselves. The attacker typically strikes from behind or from the side when the victim is looking away.

The Consequences

The results can be catastrophic. Victims can suffer traumatic brain injuries, permanent disability, or death—not from the punch itself, but from hitting their head on the pavement when they fall. Families are left devastated, and communities are left asking why.

Why We Must Act

Coward punches are 100% preventable. Through education, awareness, and strong community standards, we can create an environment where this type of violence is universally recognized as abhorrent and unacceptable. We can save lives.

Our Board & Leadership

Dedicated individuals committed to making New Zealand safer

Eugene Bareman

Chairman

Co-founder of City Kickboxing and one of the world's most respected MMA coaches. Eugene has trained multiple UFC champions and is a passionate advocate for community safety and youth development. His leadership and vision guide the Trust's mission.

Mike Angove

Board Member

Brings extensive business and strategic expertise to the Trust, helping to ensure our programs have maximum impact and reach throughout New Zealand.

Partnership with Diamond Charitable Trust

The Walk Without Fear Trust operates in partnership with Diamond Charitable Trust, leveraging their expertise in charitable operations and community engagement to maximize our impact.

Our Ambassadors

World-class athletes using their platform for positive change

Israel Adesanya

Former UFC Middleweight Champion

Israel is one of the biggest stars in mixed martial arts and a proud New Zealander. A long-time training partner of Fau Vake at City Kickboxing, Israel has been a vocal supporter of the Trust's mission from the beginning. His global platform helps spread our message of violence prevention to millions around the world.

Alexander Volkanovski

UFC Featherweight Champion

Alexander is one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters in the world. His commitment to community safety and youth development aligns perfectly with our mission. Alexander regularly participates in awareness campaigns and community events, inspiring young people to choose respect over violence.

City Kickboxing Team

New Zealand's Premier MMA Gym

The entire City Kickboxing team stands behind our mission. As Fau's training family, they understand the devastating impact of street violence and are committed to using their skills and discipline to teach young people about respect, conflict resolution, and community responsibility.

Our Partners

Working together to create safer communities

Diamond Charitable Trust

Our operational partner providing expertise in charitable management and community engagement.

Community Organizations

Local groups and organizations throughout New Zealand helping us reach communities with our message.

Schools & Educational Institutions

Partners in education working with us to teach young people about violence prevention.

Corporate Supporters

Businesses committed to supporting community safety and our anti-violence initiatives.

About Walk Without Fear Trust