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I was first introduced to Capoeira in 1997 by William Bond, a capoeirista that had learned the art from Brazilian exchange students. Captivated by Capoeira's beautiful movements, music, and African philosophy, I began to search for capoeira classes in Tennessee, where I lived at the time. In 1998, I began training in Nashville, TN under the direction of Mustafa Abdul Aleem and attending workshops led by Mestre Themba of the International Capoeira Angola Federation. There were many different styles of capoeira represented at the classes and workshops in Nashville and I trained with students from many other capoeira groups including: Cordão de Ouro, Capoeira Mandinga, Naçao Capoeira, and United Capoeira Association. I am thankful for all that Mestre Themba and the students of this group taught me. In 2004, I met Bambu, a student of Mestre Gulliver, and became instantly captivated with the techniques, training methodology, and philosophical approach of Mestre Nô, the founder of Capoeira Angola Palmares. I began training under Bambu in 2004, and have since attended workshops with Mestre Gulliver, Mestre Ombrinho, and Mestre Nô. I am extremely grateful to Bambu for introducing me to this rich lineage, and to Mestre Gulliver for his continued support and teaching.
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