The Documentary Podcast

Child soldiers and capoeira

Jan 8, 2025
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ANECDOTE

Bess Bryce's Story

  • Bess Bryce, a 16-year-old former child soldier, found solace in Capoeira after escaping the Nyatura Militia Group.
  • He was taken to a Transit and Orientation Centre, where he learned to care for livestock and discovered the therapeutic power of Capoeira.
INSIGHT

Capoeira's Origins and Nature

  • Capoeira originated in Brazil, created by enslaved Africans in the 16th century, with its modern form emerging in the 1920s.
  • Bess Bryce describes Capoeira as a non-violent "fight dance" synchronized with music, fostering camaraderie among former child soldiers.
ANECDOTE

Capoeira for Peace

  • In 2008, Flavio Suarez (Master Saudede) created "Gingando Pelapaz" (Swaying for Peace) to help children affected by violence in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.
  • The program's success led Master Saudede to propose using Capoeira for child soldiers in Goma in 2014, launching "Capoeira for Peace."
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