Pjeter berishaj
Pjeter Berishaj, owner and lead instructor at Black Mountain Defense, has innovatively synthesized his extensive expertise in Krav Maga, boxing, grappling, and jiu-jitsu to create his own dynamic mixed combat system for self-defense. Emphasizing a holistic understanding of striking, groundwork, and clinch techniques, he prepares students for diverse combat scenarios with a well-rounded approach. Holding a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Krav Maga, Pjeter’s dedication to ongoing learning is evident, and he continually expands his skill set through training in boxing, grappling, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Certified in Integrative Defense Strategies, NRA instruction, and Rangemaster, Pjeter ensures students receive comprehensive training in legal education, hand-to-hand combat, firearm implementation, and more. His mastery spans multiple disciplines, enriching instruction with specialties such as weapons-based grappling, in-fight weapon access techniques, and advanced jiu-jitsu strategies.
Through Black Mountain Defense, Pjeter equips students with the tools, knowledge, and mindset necessary to face challenges head-on and emerge stronger, all while maintaining his commitment to staying at the forefront of self-defense and combat training.
SIMON BERISHAJ
Simon runs the Youth Boxing Club here at Black Mountain Defense and is a USA Boxing certified coach with a passion for developing both the physical and mental aspects of boxing. With 8 years of experience in the sport, including competitive bouts, Simon brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to his coaching sessions. His coaching style is rooted in a holistic approach, focusing not just on technical proficiency but also on conditioning and mental preparation. Simon believes that boxing is not just about physical strength but also about mental toughness and strategic thinking, and he strives to instill these values in his students.
Vlora Marku
Vlora is a versatile instructor with Level 2 certifications in Black Mountain Defense’s Mixed Combat system and Integrative Defense Strategies (IDS), alongside being a certified USPCA firearms instructor. With experience in jiu-jitsu and weapons-based grappling, Vlora brings a comprehensive skill set, making her an excellent instructor for combat techniques. She is also an active coach at Young Shqipes Boxing Club, where she helps run the kids' boxing class, fostering discipline, focus, and self-confidence in young athletes.
Currently pursuing her USA Boxing Level 2 certification, Level 2.5 IDS, and Level 3 Mixed Combat certification, Vlora is committed to continuous learning and staying at the forefront of self-defense strategies. Her creative background adds a dynamic flair to her teaching, fostering engaging and effective training environments for students of all ages and skill levels.
CAMERON SOMERS
Cameron has a diverse background in combat training, with a primary focus on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu here at Black Mountain Defense. Cameron holds a Brown Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a Black Belt in Krav Maga, and is certified at Level 3 in Black Mountain Defense’s Mixed Combat system.
As a BJJ practitioner and instructor, he is passionate about helping students of all levels develop their grappling skills, confidence, and technical understanding of the art. His teaching style emphasizes key concepts and techniques such as positional control, escapes, submissions, and the critical importance of timing and leverage. Because of his extensive knowledge in self-defense, he also integrates self-defense principles into his Jiu-Jitsu curriculum, ensuring that students not only excel in sport Jiu-Jitsu but also develop practical, real-world skills for self-defense situations.
Outside of the gym, Cameron is deeply committed to the continuous growth of his own practice. He regularly attends seminars, workshops, training camps, and actively competes to stay at the forefront of Jiu-Jitsu. This ongoing personal development ensures that his students receive the most current, effective, and high-level instruction.