Master María Nelly is a distinguished martial artist and leader whose career spans more than four decades of dedication to Taekwondo. Holding the prestigious rank of 8th Dan Kukkiwon Black Belt, she is also an International Kyorugui Referee, International Poomsae Referee, International Taekwondo Instructor, and an official inductee of the Taekwondo Hall of Fame. Her journey reflects both technical excellence and an unwavering commitment to the growth of martial arts in Venezuela and beyond.

Her leadership within Venezuela’s national Taekwondo structure has been foundational. She founded the Aragua State Taekwondo Association in 1983 and was a founding member of the Venezuelan Taekwondo Federation in 1984. Over the years, she has served as Technical Director, Treasurer, President, and Advisor of the Aragua State Taekwondo Association, as well as Director of FUNDEA (Aragua State Sports Foundation). Her influence has shaped the development of Taekwondo at regional and national levels, while her role as a speaker at numerous national seminars has contributed to the education of referees and instructors across the country.

Internationally, Master María Nelly has earned recognition through an extensive list of certifications and referee appointments. She has officiated at World Taekwondo Championships, Pan American Games, South American Games, Deaflympics, Universiades, and numerous international Opens across the Americas, Europe, and Asia between 1993 and 2017. As a Poomsae referee, she has participated in multiple World Championships and continental events, solidifying her reputation as a respected authority in both Kyorugui and Poomsae. In addition, she has attended dozens of international referee courses and seminars, continuously updating her expertise and contributing to the global Taekwondo community.

Her impact also extends to leadership of Venezuelan delegations at more than 30 international championships and events, including competitions in the United States, Korea, Mexico, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, and Aruba. She has been instrumental in promoting Venezuelan Taekwondo abroad, organizing events such as the 1st International Taekwondo Aragua in 2010, celebrating the 30th anniversary of her academy.

At United Martial Arts, Master María Nelly brings unparalleled experience, discipline, and vision. Her legacy as a pioneer of Venezuelan Taekwondo continues to inspire new generations of athletes, referees, and instructors, upholding the highest standards of excellence and integrity in the martial arts.