At Capoeira Para Ti, we are an institution committed to the research and teaching of Capoeira, covering its artistic, critical and non-competitive aspects.

We see Capoeira as more than a martial art; it serves as a powerful catalyst for personal growth, fostering community connections and celebrating cultural heritage.

Join us as we delve into the rich history, time-honored traditions and core values that embody this captivating and dynamic art form.

Discover the joy of Capoeira with us

Experience the vibrant world of Capoeira through our artistic, inclusive and non-competitive approach.

Our Story

The story of Capoeira Para Ti is a story of passion, resistance and the transformative power of Capoeira.

Founded by Juanjo Tartaruga, the institution originates from his more than 15 years of practice, research and immersion in the world of Capoeira. After living in Brazil since 2014, Juanjo learned with several Mestres and became a scholar of Brazilian history and a tourism professional. His experiences led him to create Capoeira Paraty, a cultural tourism company, in 2018.

Amber Nelson, also known as Peninha, found her way to Capoeira under difficult circumstances. After a tragic incident, she discovered Capoeira during her healing process, and it became the structure that helped her reconnect with herself and give meaning to her life.

Amber & Juanjo met during the B2B Joga Capoeira bike trip to Brazil. Together, they formed a partnership not only by creating a family, but also in the belief that Capoeira has the power to generate a positive impact on individuals and communities.

This unique combination of passion and purpose led to the creation of Capoeira Para Ti, an institution dedicated to the research and teaching of Capoeira from an artistic, critical and non-competitive point of view;

Intertwining the threads of history, pedagogy and tradition, Capoeira Para Ti has become an institution that celebrates the various aspects of Capoeira.

Our story is one of triumph over adversity, of embracing the healing power of Capoeira and sharing that power with the world.

At Capoeira Para Ti, we believe that everyone's story is important and that each person who joins our community adds a new chapter to our collective journey;

Together, we celebrate the strength, creativity and resilience that Capoeira brings to our lives, and strive to create a space where everyone can experience the transformative power of this beautiful art form.

MISSION

Research and teach Capoeira from an artistic, critical and non-competitive point of view, based on the study of Brazilian history, pedagogical methodologies and respect for ancestral traditions. We strive to create transformative experiences for our students and clients, using Capoeira as a way to learn about Brazilian history and culture. Our ultimate goal is to make a positive difference in the world by promoting respect, inclusion, authenticity and creativity through the practice of Capoeira.

VISIÓN

We believe Capoeira is a powerful tool for personal growth and community building, and we are dedicated to sharing that joy with the world. Through tour experiences, cultural workshops, online courses and content creation, we hope to inspire people of all backgrounds and skill levels to discover the beauty and dynamism of Capoeira.

Teachers

Meet our dedicated teachers who share the magic of Capoeira.

Prof. Tartaruga discovered the fascinating world of Capoeira while pursuing his second university degree. He was attracted by its music, playful dynamics, and the joy that radiated from each movement. Since then, he has been passionate about the power of Capoeira to build communities and foster meaningful interactions.

His philosophy revolves around connecting people through music, movement, and ancestry in pursuit of freedom. His core values: community, fluidity, and intent. He believes the true essence of Capoeira shines when people connect meaningfully.

His journey began in 2008 under the guidance of M. Rosita and M. Cigano from Capoeira Longe do Mar group in Mexico.

In 2013, he joined the B2B Joga Capoeira project, where he travelled by bicycle to Brazil creating a close bond with M. Acordeon and M. Suelly.

His time in Brazil, especially with M. Ferradura and M. Itapuã Beiramar, inspired him about the potential of Capoeira for community building, social development and education. There, he became a specialist in Brazilian history and a certified tour guide, founding "Capoeira Paraty" a cultural tourism initiative based in the city of Paraty, Rio de Janeiro.

In 2023, with Gugú Quilombola as his "padrinho", he received his Professor de Capoeira degree as part of the 25th Anniversary of the Capoeira Longe do Mar group.

Today, he is leading projects focused on diversity, inclusion and equity for schools in Saint Louis, MO, supporting the Capoeira Arts Foundation in various projects and doing seasonal work with cultural tourism in Brazil.