Mestre Valmir Damasceno Santos, born on August 27, 1965, in Salvador, Bahia, is a renowned figure in the world of Capoeira Angola, both for his deep roots in the tradition and his international contributions to the art form. His journey in Capoeira began in 1982 with Grupo de Capoeira Angola Pelourinho (GCAP), where he was mentored by Mestres Moraes and Cobra Mansa. These early years shaped his passion for Capoeira and provided the foundation for his future as a leading Mestre in the Capoeira Angola community.

In 1992, while working closely with social organizations and community projects, Mestre Valmir earned the title of Contra-Mestre. His dedication to both Capoeira and social causes was clear, as he used Capoeira to reach and empower underprivileged communities. In 1996, Mestre Valmir co-founded the International Capoeira Angola Foundation (FICA) alongside Mestre Cobra Mansa, marking a significant milestone in his career and a defining moment for Capoeira Angola’s global presence.

Mestre Valmir’s rise to the title of Mestre came in 2003 at the IX International Conference of Capoeira Angola, where his commitment, knowledge, and mastery of the art form were officially recognized. Since then, he has continued to lead with distinction, heading FICA-Bahia and the Instituto de Capoeira Angola Alagbedé (I.C.A.A), two institutions dedicated to preserving and spreading the principles of Capoeira Angola.

Known for his grounded and ancestral approach to Capoeira, Mestre Valmir places great emphasis on the spiritual and cultural aspects of the practice. His teachings are deeply rooted in ancestrality, guided by the orisá of his orí and the group’s patron orisá, Ogún. This connection to his spiritual lineage informs every aspect of his Capoeira, making his approach a rich blend of technique, tradition, and respect for the history of the art form.

In addition to his work as a Mestre, he is highly regarded for his craftsmanship in creating berimbaus, the iconic instrument central to Capoeira. His skills as a maker of this instrument further demonstrate his commitment to preserving the tradition in all its forms.

Mestre Valmir’s influence stretches far beyond Salvador. He regularly travels the world, conducting workshops and sharing his vision of Capoeira Angola with practitioners across the globe. His international presence continues to inspire a new generation of Capoeiristas to approach the art with respect, humility, and a deep understanding of its cultural and spiritual significance.

Through his leadership, dedication, and passion for Capoeira, Mestre Valmir Damasceno Santos remains a beacon of Capoeira Angola, both as a teacher and as a custodian of its traditions.