Rogerio Valencio da Silva, better known as Mestre Cocada in the Capoeira world, began training at the age of 15 in his city of Goioerê, Paraná, Brazil . At the age of 18, Mestre Cocada opened his own academy in 1999. In conjunction with the local government, he implemented a social project in ten schools of Goioerê. The programs are highly successful today with over 500 students ranging from ages 5 to 15. In September 2019 in the presence of Mestre Joao Grande, Mestre Jelon Vieira, and many renowned capoeiristas, Mestre Cocada was promoted to the level of Mestre.

Since coming to the United States, Mestre Cocada has traveled all over the country as a guest of great Capoeiristas. He has participated in events and workshops in New York, Florida, Texas, Georgia, Colorado, Illinois, California and Missouri. In 2005, Mestre Cocada appeared in the Sergio Mendes and Black Eyed Peas video “Mas Que Nada.” He also appeared in the video “Miracles” with the group Arrested Development, which features him in a one-handed handstand.

Mestre Cocada has trained, taught, and lived Capoeira for 30 years. He is now in New Orleans with the desire to introduce Capoeira and Brazilian culture to the people of this great city.