Giacomo Merello began his passion for Japanese martial arts with Shotokan Karate as a child. He later studied Daito-ryu Aikibudo for many years and is one of the few foreigners to hold a Japanese Diploma (2nd Dan, Daitokai) in this traditional art. Since 2007, he has complemented his training with Kendo (3rd Dan, ZNKR) and Iaido (4th Dan, ZNKR), holding official diplomas in both disciplines. As an Italian-Antiguan lawyer, diplomat, and member of the Scottish Baronage, his teaching style is inclusive, precise, and structured, with occasional humour to put students at ease while preserving the traditions of Japanese martial arts.