A native of Brazil, Mestre Kiki da Bahia takes his name from the region where he was born—Salvador, Bahia: the soul of Brazil and the birthplace of Capoeira.

Founder of Ginga Associação de Capoeira USA, Mestre Kiki da Bahia is the protégé to one of the most important figures in Capoeira, Mestre Itapoan, a walking vessel of its immense culture and knowledge, who for over fifty years, has dedicated his life to the study and advancement of Capoeira. 

Mestre Kiki da Bahia began studying with his father and uncle at the age of 8 before formally training with Mestre Itapoan as a teenager. Mestre Kiki's father, Mestre Nenei, studied Capoeira under Mestre Salario Minimo, who was also a student of Mestre Bimba.

Along with teaching Capoeira, Mestre Kiki da Bahia is a singer and master percussionist representing Brazil's rich heritage by performing with bands worldwide.