About
The Self-Preservation Society
“Understand that self-preservation is holistic. Eliminate what is trying to harm you. Heal yourself when hurt. Learn to recognize and avoid the threat.”
— Sylvester “Koda” Pierce | Founder, The Self-Preservation Society
The Self-Preservation Society, founded in 2015, is an organization dedicated to empowering our communities and providing the knowledge and resources that allow us all to protect ourselves – in any situation.
Born out of the need for accurate and culturally competent information about personal safety, firearms, and experiencing the outdoors, The Self-Preservation Society seeks to educate our communities and erase the ideas that:
Only certain groups of people need to know how to protect themselves.
Only certain groups of people can own and use firearms for safety and protection.
Only certain groups of people enjoy being in nature.
Through certified, thorough, yet approachable training, The Self-Preservation Society aims to make sure our communities are informed, confident, and able to protect themselves and their loved ones – from kitchen to campsite or anywhere else.
The Fern
The fern in the center of our logo holds special meaning. It is an Adinkra symbol, originating in Ghana, that represents resilience and fortitude.
Meet Your Guide:
Sylvester “Koda” Pierce
A mostly ATL native (Kingsport, TN born), Sylvester Pierce is a highly certified firearms, lifesaving first aid, and wilderness instructor with a passion for educating members of Black and Brown communities and those who have been demonized or conditioned to think they are bad, evil, or lesser than. He especially seeks to combat misinformation with accurate, culturally competent information.
Sylvester loves hiking. Loves, loves, loves. When not communing with nature, you’ll find him teaching, volunteering, collecting/listening to vinyl records, and supporting Black- and woman-owned businesses.
He is heavily influenced by Harriet Tubman and all those who saw a need for people to be in a better place, so they gathered resources and made it happen.
Certifications & Affiliations
USCCA (U.S. Concealed Carry Association) Firearms Instructor
American Heart Association – CPR, First Aid & AED
American Red Cross