Mestre KK Bonates (born Luiz Carlos de Matos Bonates on October 19, 1958, in Amazonas, Brazil) is a highly respected figure in the world of Capoeira, with over 45 years of experience in the art form. His journey into Capoeira began in his childhood during the 1970s in Manaus, where he was introduced to the rich traditions of this Afro-Brazilian martial art. Throughout his career, Mestre KK has had the honor of being the contramestre (professor) of several significant figures in Capoeira, including Mestre Gato de Silvestre, Mestre Vermehlo Boxér, and Mestre Miguel Preto.

He is the founder and president of the Amazonian Federation of Capoeira and the Sports and Research Association of Capoeira – Matumbé Capoeira School. His leadership extends beyond teaching; he has served as the director of culture for the Brazilian Confederation of Capoeira and has been involved in various cultural organizations. Notably, he is a member of the Jair Moura Institute and the Mestre Bimba Foundation, both based in Bahia, Brazil, which are dedicated to preserving Capoeira’s history and promoting Afro-Brazilian culture.

Mestre KK’s influence extends to his work in cultural advocacy. He was the vice president and cultural adviser for the State Council of Culture of the Amazon (2008-2012) and the founder of the Association of Masters and Players of Popular Culture of Amazonas. He was an organizing member of the First Brazilian Congress of Capoeira Angola in Salvador and a delegate for the First Conference on Racial Equality and several other national and international cultural conferences.

A prolific figure in cultural production, Mestre KK has been involved in organizing and producing shows, CDs, exhibitions, and other cultural projects. He is also the author of the book "Iúna Mandingueira – The Symbolic Bird of Capoeira", and the creator of the CD "Dança de Guerra – Dance of War", which captures the sounds and stories of the old guard of Bahia’s Capoeira community.

Mestre KK is not only a capoeira master but also a scholar. He holds a PhD in Biological Sciences (Botany) from the Institute of Amazonian Research at the University of Amazonia (INPA/FUA, 2007). His academic work focuses on Tropical Botany, Amazonian epiphytes, and ethnobotany, with a special emphasis on the intersection of Afro-Brazilian culture and Capoeira. His research also covers the ecology and anatomy of Amazonian plants and their role in local ecosystems.

In addition to his academic achievements, Mestre KK has published extensively on Afro-Brazilian culture, particularly Capoeira, ethnobiology, and popular culture. His work is widely recognized, and he is invited annually to lecture and give courses at universities and cultural associations, particularly in Europe.

Mestre KK’s impact on Capoeira and cultural studies is profound. He remains an influential figure, dedicated to the ongoing preservation and promotion of Capoeira as a cultural and martial art, both within Brazil and internationally.