Hey there, I’m Joia, a Graduada or Graduate of Capoeira Aruanda, student of Mestre Borracha, and someone who caught the Capoeira bug back in 2001. I still remember watching that first class, the music lifted the room, the movements looked impossibly fluid, and the whole space buzzed with joy, rhythm and connection. I knew straight away I’d found my thing.
Capoeira has been a constant thread in my life ever since, shaping how I see people in the world, how I connect with people, and generally how I live my life! After stepping back for a while to focus on family and my career, I’m now returning to teaching, and it feels like coming home.
What excites me most is contributing to building the Capoeira community in Canberra that’s just as vibrant, diverse and welcoming as the artform itself. A space where people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities can explore movement, culture, music and play. A space where we sweat, laugh, learn, sing off-key, try things we didn’t think we could do, and celebrate all the things that make Capoeira so special.
If you’re curious, come try it. You don’t need rhythm, flexibility or experience, just an open mind and a willingness to have some fun. I can’t wait to share this beautiful artform with you.