MESTRANDO COCO (Marcelo Fagundes) holds the 2nd-highest attainable rank in the international ABADÁ-Capoeira school, recognized as Mestrando (Master level) in 2025. He began practicing Capoeira at age 10 in his native Curitiba, Brazil, through a free after-school community program. At 16, he began teaching youth under the supervision of Mestre Piriquito Verde. Mestrando Coco was part of Mestre Piriquito Verde’s team of students who explored dynamic and engaging approaches to developing effective teaching methodologies for children. This pivotal work resulted in the publication of six books that have become essential resources for Capoeiristas who teach children.
Mestrando Coco’s expertise and ability to inspire young students have made him a sought-after Capoeira teacher. He has a natural ability to engage students through dynamic, encouraging instruction that fosters both athletic and artistic excellence. He has traveled internationally as a guest artist, sharing his knowledge and passion for Capoeira with communities around the world.
INSTRUTORA FRANJINHA (Jennifer Sanchez) is the first female born and raised in New York City to receive the rank of Instrutora (purple-brown level) in the international ABADÁ-Capoeira school. She began practicing Capoeira at age 17 during her first year at Hunter College and has since dedicated herself to honing her physical, artistic, and teaching skills. Her passion for making Capoeira accessible to underserved youth led her to introduce Capoeira arts programs in New York City public schools as Co-founder and Executive Director of ABADA-Capoeira Bronx. Instrutora Franjinha has received multiple accolades for her contributions to community development. She is also a strong mentor to young girls and women in the art form, having led numerous female-focused events throughout her Capoeira career. She has performed across the country, including on stages such as the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. In addition to her Capoeira career, Instrutora Franjinha is a marketing professional specializing in brand management, growth and multicultural audiences.
