Mestre Mindinho (Raphael Cunha) was introduced to Capoeira at the age of 11, and he fell in love instantaneously. For years he was a devoted and serious student, committed to his studies. By the age of 17 he began teaching under the supervision of his Mestre. By 18 year old he had also studied several martial art and fighting techniques including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, Thai boxing, Judo, Wrestling, and Ruas Vale Tudo, all with the objective to better his performance in Capoeira. In addition, Mindinho also completed an intensive training program at the Escola Nacional de Circo, or National School of Circus, in Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.
In 1994, Mindinho made the decision to leave his childhood mestre and begin his studies with Capoeira Brasil’s Mestre Boneco, known in the Capoeira world as one of the top capoeiristas and mestres of his time. It was here he as able to improve his technique and knowledge, and gain more confidence on his path in Capoeira. Mindinho constantly worked to improve his Capoeira and teaching methods, and completed several extended one to two month workshops in sports training, stretching and relaxation, yoga, natural gymnastics, personal training, personal marketing, children’s recreation, childhood development, marketing of events and organization and production of sports events, as well as two years of courses in Physical Education. After completing his degree in Computer Science, Mindinho was able to make the decision to truly dedicate his life to bringing Capoeira to the world. Mindinho began teaching workshops around Brasil in 1994, and has taught in eleven capital cities throughout the country. In 1999 he began his work outside of Brasil with a one month tour of the United States. This was followed by another trip in 2000. In 2001, Mindinho was invited to teach a workshop in Madrid, Spain, and more recently, this past June and July, Mindinho made a six week tour of the Netherlands, France and Spain. Since moving to San Diego, in January of 2002, Mestre Mindinho has taught class for more than 500 students in his personal studio, as well as after school programs throughout the county. He also teaches class in athletic camps and school assemblies. In addition Mindinho and his students perform around the county in events such as Brazilian Carnaval at 4th and B, Street Scene, Earth Day, as well as street fairs throughout the county. Mindinho has also worked in shows at SeaWorld and Legoland. In addition, he has produced 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 Africa, Afro-Brazilian, and Brazilian dances performed at the La Raca Cultural Center in Balboa Park. Mestre Mindinho is one of the most well known Capoeira teachers in the United States today. He dedicates his life to promoting Capoeira in a positive, fun environment so that his students may not only become true capoeiristas, but individuals with better self-esteem, improved level of fitness and most of all a true knowledge of the art and tradition of Capoeira. |
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