Our mission is to promote longevity through capoeira by curating transformative experiences. At Beyond The Maafa, we draw inspiration from the wisdom of history's revered warriors and craftsmen, infusing this ethos into our martial arts classes and retreats. We go beyond conventional methods, focusing on immersive programs that foster sustainable ecosystems and infrastructure. Our evidence-based approach is tailored for industrial athletes and working professionals, enhancing lifespan and health.

We are dedicated to optimizing individual potential, fostering confidence, and nurturing a sense of sovereignty. When the mind and body harmonize, creativity knows no bounds, empowering you to sculpt the healthy future you envision. Through our unique programs, you'll not only hone your martial arts skills but also delve into the art of ecological construction. We believe in internalizing our principles and projecting them into the world. Our goal is to equip you with the expertise to become adept craftsmen of both our martial arts and the environments we inhabit.

Pele, a native of Atlanta (ATLien), embarked on his capoeira journey at the age of 15, building upon his years of wrestling and military boot camp-style training. Over time, he has traversed the nation and Brazil, both practicing and instructing the art, and notably establishing award-winning schools in Tuskegee, AL, and Atlanta. His current path is guided by the mentorship of the esteemed capoeira practitioner, Mestre Gugu Quilombola.

Delving deeper into Afro-Diasporic warrior practices, Pele became an active student of the 52-blocks fighting system under the guidance of Lyte Burly. These two disciplines have solidified the Afro-diasporic connection across continents, emphasizing our shared roots and the enduring value of historical practices in grounding and unifying us.

To bolster his knowledge, Pele obtained certifications in two renowned personal training systems. One of these journeys led him to explore the realms of muscle-centric medicine, time-efficient strength training, and fostering longevity within the Afro-diasporic community. The other pathway honed his teaching skills in a structured and efficient manner. Armed with this expertise, Pele has developed a unique system, documented in a book that synthesizes over 15 years of study. His primary focus is to make elite-level health, viewed through the lens of a warrior, accessible to those often marginalized in discussions about optimal health and longevity. He has passionately shared his wisdom, having educated over 300 young individuals in the metro Atlanta area and an additional 200+ adults.

Beyond the accolades, Pele's quest for comprehensive health knowledge led him to explore the entire spectrum from soil to gut. He immersed himself in conventional farming for six years, eventually discovering permaculture. Through this journey, he recognized the beautiful bodies of those who engage in fundamental labor. He linked this insight with the historical practices of capoeira and Booker T. Washington's philosophy of encouraging the Afro population to participate in industrial athletic work. The prevailing thought being, "Why rely on gyms and elaborate diets when our daily work can serve as basic exercise and the fasting routines of industrial athletes serve as the foundations for our diets?"

Pele comprehended that modern training methods often involve unnecessary complexity. In an effort to return to the robust systems of our ancestors for cultivating longevity, he delved into sustainable construction, amalgamating his passion for agriculture, construction, and the history of the arts he practices. The culmination of his endeavors is showcased in "Beyond The Maafa," an experience that distills years of research into a philosophy that empowers individuals to attain fitness with life's bare essentials, fostering holistic skills that uphold society while remaining in harmony with our ecosystem.