I had a wonderful time in capoeira this semester, especially during Mestre Roxinho’s visit. He was so intentional in how he spent his time with us because we only had so much of it. We learned not just how to do certain capoeira moves, but also lessons about life and how it relates to this art form. For example, he spoke a lot about seeing the world from different perspectives, caring for others and the community you are apart of, and how doing things slowly with patience is vital to a good life.

Hearing about the Bantu Institute directly from him was special, and I’m so happy we have the opportunity to give back to Mestre and his institute for the time he spent with us. Oftentimes, I am worried that advocacy movements do not actually make a difference in lives, but the Bantu Institute is clearly impacting so many kids positively every day because of Mestre.