Capoeira Angola
- Programs
- Capoeira Angola
Capoeira Angola in Project Bantu
Capoeira Angola is an Afro-Brazilian art that began in the 16th century, at the time when Brazil was a Portuguese colony. During this time, the African slave labour force was involved in the production of sugar. Capoeira was used by African slaves as a way to maintain their cultural identity, overcome oppression and create an African diaspora community.
The Capoeira Angola program was designed to promote healing and empowerment through musical and physical expression. The program includes non-violent, non-contact sparring, fluid play and sweeping movements. Participants form a circle (roda), they take turns playing musical instruments, singing, or ritually ‘sparring’ in pairs in the centre of the roda.
For some students from refugee backgrounds, trauma associated with their experience can lead to behavioural issues, affecting the ability to develop trusting relationships. Capoeira Angola within the program acts as a micro-environment, teaching participants that if they can succeed at this, they can succeed in the wider community.
Why do we run Capoeira Angola programs?
- Promote psychosocial wellbeing
- Improve mood and playfulness
- Foster friendship formation
- Improve emotional stability, self-control and self-awareness
- Improve wellbeing, sleep and boost energy
- Channel energy towards a positive experience
Annual Capoeira Angola Encounter
In conjunction with the Project Bantu group sessions, the Youth Team staff organise an annual Capoeira Encounter Event, whereby students from all schools participating in the program come together to practice, play and sing.
2025 is the 15th year of the Capoeira Angola Encounter Event, with special visitors attending from Sydney-based and international Capoeira Angola schools!
Other Details
Target Group: Primary or Secondary Students from IEC or mainstream schools.
Program Delivery:
Sessions are flexible. Schools are encouraged to run sessions for one term per group. Sessions typically take between 60-90 minutes to allow for music and movement.
Requirement:
Large classroom or hall without furniture
Designed by:
STARTTS Youth Team in collaboration with Capoeira Mestres and young people
Maximum no. of participants:
15 per group
Inside Scoop
What have young people said about the Capoeira Angola program?
“What have you learnt or liked from being in the Capoeira Angola project?”
I don’t know what capoeira means, but I hope it means people coming together
Even though if we do make some mistakes they will be there to help you get up. So that is the bit I like about. It is not just capoeira. It is the fact they are going to be there for you
It feels good, I’m better at it now than before, and I feel proud. It keeps you out of trouble. It makes you feel calm
Capoeira Angola has made me flexible, healthy and I have more energy. It has great movements so you can move your body easily like a football player
“I like it because everyone here is from a different culture and they have different ways of thinking and socialising… The way they sing makes me remember something from the past
[Capoeira] brings us all together.
I got closer with people. I wasn’t close within this group
Yes I am happier because it reminds me of traditional African music and dance. I feel home when I listen to music. I remember home and familiar stuff
When I do capoeira I feel like I am home
It feels good I’m better at it now than before, and I feel proud. It keeps you out of trouble. It makes you feel calm
Yes it has helped me deal with situations inside and outside of school. It gives me an open mindset about different perspectives within my head and of others
Yeah, I used to get into trouble before like with teachers and with friends, now no, I am good. I don’t get into trouble anymore. Teachers suggested that I get into Capoeira, and it really helped calm me down, it helped me grow as a person
Yeah I think it’s a really good experience for people who don’t usually get along with other people ‘cause there’s a lot of cooperation in it.
What do teachers and school counsellors think about the Capoeira Angola program?
STARTTS Capoeira Program has been an excellent program for our students. The students have learned so much about the non-contact game in which the movements are embraced with music and singing. The project has helped the students strengthen their identities, confidence and talents. They have formed healthy relationships by expressing themselves and respecting others through their movements and contributions in Capoeira Angola.
