Erica Payton

3^rd Degree Black Belt

Entrepreneur, certified fitness and dance instructor, began her study of martial arts at the age of 10 at 3 Circles School of Karate & Physical Fitness, under the instruction of the late Master Benjamin Peacock and Sensei Joy (Essie Calvert).  This is where she developed a growth mindset, in understanding the importance of consistency, along with the improvement and mastery that comes with practice and hard work. Payton attended Northern Illinois University where she studied physical education and dance.  She graduated with a B.S.Ed. and a BFA in theatre with an emphasis in dance performance. Payton opened her first dojo named Tres (3) Circles School of Karate in Matteson, IL in 2011.  She is an AFAA certified group fitness instructor teaching Zumbini®, Zumba®, Strong Nation® and other formats providing children and adults a positive outlet to work out and get desired results.  After graduating from the Joseph Business School of Living Word Christian Center under Dr. Bill & Veronica Winston, Payton extended her entrepreneurship by launching Believers Center for Performing Arts in Motion, Incorporated. There, she is the founder and director of this not-for-profit fitness center for the youth, with a vision to empower them to be leaders and positive role models in the community, by providing the necessary tools that helps them to discover and embrace their true identity.  Erica sees life as a gift from God and knows that all people were created with a unique purpose and is determined to help our youth discover, embrace and walk in their greatness. Erica as a mother, wife, karate instructor, dancer, teacher, and motivational speaker continues to grow and impact the lives of many. To this day, she continues to compete and win in tournaments not only throughout the Chicagoland area but also worldwide.