Awó, Bàbá Èṣùdámiláre
Founder & Artistic Director
Awó, Bàbá Èṣùdámiláre is the founder and artistic director of Crianças de Capoeira Angola Academy.
His work in Capoeira extends beyond teaching movement. For decades, he has approached Capoeira Angola as a living system of ancestral knowledge—one capable of developing the body, sharpening awareness, strengthening character and building community.
His teaching emphasizes preservation, discipline, patience, strategy, music, history and understanding.
His work has included children, adults, families, universities, artists and communities in the United States and Belize.
For approximately 25 years, he has maintained relationships and conducted cultural and community work in Belize, including San Ignacio, Gales Point Manatee, Hopkins and Belmopan. Former young students remain connected today, many now established professionals and community members.
His work asks students to do more than learn Capoeira.
Learn to understand what you are doing, why you are doing it, and what the roda can teach you about life.
Efunsewa Layssard
Co-Artistic Director | Movement & Program Development
Efunsewa Layssard brings movement, dance, wellness, creative direction and program development into the work of Crianças.
Her background in yoga therapy, dance and movement supports an approach that recognizes the body not simply as an instrument of performance, but as a place of awareness, expression, discovery and transformation.
Together, the academy's leadership creates programming that connects movement, culture, creativity, discipline and community.