Why STARTTS has a Capoeira Angola Program?
Many of the young people from refugee backgrounds that come to STARTTS have experienced high levels of trauma associated with their experience of dispossession, conflict or living in refugee camps. For some young people, this trauma can cause behavioural issues and affect their ability to concentrate and build trusting relationships, especially in a school environment. Capoeira Angola promotes empowerment, respect, self awareness and developing individual strengths while being a member of the group – all important elements for a young person who is coming to terms with trauma. For these young people Capoeira Angola is a form of healing. It combines the therapeutic potential of musical and physical expression to produce a range of social and learning outcomes. Classes are lead by Mestre Roxinho who brings with him 30 years of experience. Mestre Roxinho was bestowed the title Mestre, or ‘Master’ by the Capoeira Angola community acknowledging that he is one of the true ‘voices’ of Capoeir
