Professor Chin

Daniel Yoshimi, Prof. Chin (Sheen) was born in Santos, Brazil. He began his training in capoeira under the direction of Professor Eros in 1995. Two years later, driven by his passion for working with children and his love for capoeira, Chin began teaching children’s classes in Sao Paulo, Brazil. In 2000 Chin moved to Santa Barbara, CA. where he currently resides. Soon after Chin’s arrival it was apparent to Mestre Railson that Chin’s natural ability in working with people and his commitment to Capoeira Sul da Bahia should be used to help spread capoeira culture. With Mestre Railson’s encouragement and guidance Chin opened the first Capoeira Sul da Bahia academy in the USA in September 2000. Chin’s warm personality and clarity in teaching both children and adults quickly found a place in the Santa Barbara community and later in neighboring towns: Ventura (2004), Ojai (2005) and Carpintaria (2006). Yet his dedication to capoeira (and the community) did not stop there. In 2002 Chin spearheaded the Kids Low Income Program. It is a four month program for 20-30 low income children to train in capoeira to receive their cords/belts at the Batizado. In addition, Chin teaches capoeira to elementary students in after school programs. In January 2005, in partnership with Vanessa Isaac and Jessica Elledge, Chin opened Ginga Multicultural Arts Center. This is now the official home of Capoeira Sul da Bahia in Santa Barbara. The year 2005 was a huge accomplishment for Chin with the opening of Ginga, as well as receiving his instructor cordel. On July 2007 Chin received his Professor belt at the 3rd International Capoeira Sul da Bahia in Arraial D'Ajuda, Bahia-Brazil. He continues his training going every year to Brazil.