Mindinho
A Brazilian native, Mindinho [pronounced meen-jean-yo] discovered the art of Capoeira at the age of 11 and fell in love instantly. Committed to his training from the onset, he began teaching Capoeira under the supervision of his mestre at the age of 17. Until the age of 18 he studied several martial art and fighting techniques, including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, boxing, Thai boxing, Judo, wrestling, and Ruas Vale Tudo, all with the objective of improving his performance in Capoeira. In addition, he also completed a one-year intensive training program at the Escola Nacional de Circo, or National School of Circus, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to compliment his Capoeira training.
In 1994, Mindinho made the decision to leave his childhood mestre and begin his studies with Capoeira Brasil’s Mestre Boneco, known then, and now, as one of the top Capoeiristas and mestres of his time. It was under his direction that Mindinho was able to improve his technique and knowledge, gaining more confidence on his path in Capoeira. After completing his degree in Computer Science, Mindinho made the decision to dedicate his life to promoting Capoeira around the world. He began teaching workshops around Brasil in 1994 and has taught in sixteen capital cities throughout the country to date.
In 2000, he began his work outside of Brasil with a one-month tour of the United States followed by another trip in 2001. Since then, Mindinho has been invited to teach workshops throughout Europe, including Spain, France, the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, and Poland. He has also been a guest of groups in Mexico, Lebanon, and New Zealand. He regularly makes 6 to 8 week tours of Europe and Brasil to both train and share his knowledge.
After moving to San Diego in January of 2002, Mindinho has founded his own group, Capoeira Brasil San Diego. He currently teaches and performs regularly around San Diego county, including at Sea World and Legoland. He has produced the documentary Capoeira: Dance and Fight for Freedom, voted the best Capoeira documentary in English by “Planet Capoeira” magazine, as well as the “African Wave,” a show combining various African, Afro-Brazilian, and Brazilian dances performed at the La Raca Cultural Center in Balboa Park.
Twenty-four years into his career, Mindinho is one of the most well-known Capoeira teachers in the United States today. He constantly works to improve his Capoeira and teaching methods, completing several extended courses in sports training, stretching and relaxation, yoga, gymnastics, and personal training. He has also focuses on special techniques for teaching children with courses in childhood development and children’s recreation. He has dedicated his life to promoting Capoeira in an energetic, positive environment so that his students can become individuals with better self-esteem, an improved level of fitness and a knowledge of the history and tradition of the art of Capoeira.