Omri Ferradura Breda, universally recognized as Mestre Ferradura, born on January 22, 1976, is a revered Mestre de Capoeira whose influence extends far beyond the traditional capoeira roda. With decades of experience and an unwavering passion for the art, he has become a beacon of knowledge and inspiration for countless practitioners around the world.
He, along with Mestre Itapua de Beiramar and Lobisomen, created the “Movimento Novo”. This initiative emerged as a vibrant movement of talented young capoeiristas who came from diverse styles and backgrounds, all driven by their shared passion for Capoeira. Each year, these dedicated individuals would gather in a spirited environment to engage in playful exchanges, film their artistic expressions, and collaborate with one another. This annual gathering not only served as a platform for honing their skills but also played a crucial role in creating a nurturing space to foster the customs and values common to Capoeira before its formal institutionalization. By blending traditional techniques with modern interpretations, they aimed to preserve the essence of Capoeira while inviting new ideas and creativity. So, you could say that this is a re-creation of olden times, an effort to return to the roots of this captivating art form, while simultaneously pushing its boundaries to ensure its evolution for future generations.
He is not only a master practitioner and teacher, sharing his wisdom through heartfelt instruction, but also a dedicated pedagogue, tirelessly working to innovate and expand the curriculum that educates the next generation of capoeiristas. As the esteemed president of the Brazilian Institute of Capoeira Education, he has implemented programs that emphasize both skill development and cultural understanding, aiming to bridge gaps and foster community among diverse populations. Furthermore, as the innovative director of the Brincadeira de Angola project, he has championed initiatives that highlight the rich history and value of capoeira as a tool for social transformation. His multifaceted contributions underscore a profound commitment to both the art form and its potential for uplifting individuals and communities, proving that capoeira is more than just a martial art; it is a powerful vehicle for change and unity.
Mestre Ferradura’s journey with Capoeira began in 1991 in Rio de Janeiro, under the tutelage of Mestre Marrom, a prominent figure in Capoeira Angola. His natural aptitude and dedication quickly propelled him into a teaching role by 1993, demonstrating an early calling to share his knowledge. The culmination of his training came in 2010 when he received his official graduation as a Capoeira Master from Henrique Anastacio de Jesus, Mestre Marrom himself, a testament to years of rigorous practice and profound understanding.
Beyond his expertise in Capoeira, Mestre Ferradura possesses a strong academic foundation, holding a degree in pedagogy from the Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro. He further specialized in Early Childhood Education, a qualification that profoundly informs his approach to teaching Capoeira. This specialized knowledge is at the heart of the BRINCADEIRA DE ANGOLA PROJECT, which he founded and coordinates. This pioneering project focuses on the playful teaching of Capoeira, specifically tailored for early childhood education, integrating the rich cultural and physical aspects of Capoeira with age-appropriate pedagogical methods.
As president of the Brazilian Institute of Capoeira Education, Mestre Ferradura plays a pivotal role in guiding and supporting Capoeira teachers across the country. Through this respected institute, he helps educators delve deeper into the theoretical and practical concepts of Capoeira Education, which encompass not only the physical aspects of this unique martial art but also its rich history, cultural significance, and educational frameworks. By providing workshops, resources, and ongoing mentorship, he ensures a higher standard of instruction and a more profound understanding of the art form’s educational potential among teachers and students alike.
His leadership in this capacity highlights his unwavering dedication to professionalizing Capoeira instruction, thereby fostering a community of knowledgeable instructors who can disseminate the values and techniques of Capoeira effectively. Furthermore, Mestre Ferradura’s endeavors are crucial in expanding Capoeira’s reach as a legitimate educational discipline within schools and community programs, paving the way for future generations to appreciate and engage with this vibrant cultural heritage. Through his efforts, Capoeira is not only seen as a form of self-defense or dance but also recognized as an invaluable method of teaching life skills, discipline, and cultural pride.
Mestre Ferradura is widely acclaimed for his unwavering commitment to harnessing Capoeira as a powerful tool for social good and positive change. His work is characterized by several key areas:
Mentorship for marginalized groups: A cornerstone of Mestre Ferradura’s philosophy is the belief in Capoeira’s ability to uplift and empower those on the fringes of society. He actively teaches Capoeira to marginalized communities within Rio de Janeiro, extending his mentorship to homeless individuals, members of the LGBTQ community, and inmates in juvenile prisons. Through these programs, he offers not just physical training but also a sense of belonging, discipline, and self-worth.
Transformative power of Capoeira: Mestre Ferradura has been a firsthand witness to the profound, life-altering impact of Capoeira. He has observed individuals who were formerly homeless or incarcerated as young prisoners find meaningful employment and successfully transition away from life on the streets. These anecdotal successes underscore his conviction that Capoeira provides a structured environment that fosters self-respect, resilience, and a path towards a more stable future.
Promoting African heritage: Mestre Ferradura is a vocal advocate for the importance of Capoeira as an indispensable link to Brazil’s deep-rooted African heritage. He articulates passionately that Capoeira is far more than a martial art or a dance; it is a powerful conduit for developing identity, particularly for Afro-Brazilian youth. In a society where positive role models from within their own culture may be scarce, Mestre Ferradura sees Capoeira as a crucial medium for fostering pride, cultural awareness, and a strong sense of self. He believes that by connecting with their ancestral roots through Capoeira, these young individuals can build a robust foundation for their personal and collective identities.
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