Efraim Silva

Efraim Silva began practicing Capoeira at a young age under Mestre Trindade and later Mestre Humberto. By 17, he had become a Capoeira instructor, and in 1996 he earned the title of Mestre from the Capoeira Federation in Brazil. He also studied Brazilian folk dance and music, including Maculelê, Puxada de Rede, and Samba de Roda, and received state certification as a professional musician and rhythmist. In 1989, Efraim moved to the United States to expand Capoeira internationally, receiving training through the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism. By 1993, he was integrating Capoeira and other Brazilian arts into school programs. He founded the Ginga Brasileira dance company and directed the Connecticut Capoeira Center, performing nationwide in schools, theaters, universities, and festivals. Mestre Efraim taught at institutions including Yale University, Norwalk Community College, Southern Connecticut State University, the University of Connecticut, and Fairfield University. His contributions earned him several honors, including Young Audiences of Connecticut Artist of the Year (2009), Latino de Oro (2010), and recognition as a Connecticut Master of Martial Arts (2011). In 2020, he relocated to Florida to continue sharing his knowledge with new generations, leaving behind a strong legacy of instructors and students built over more than 30 years in Connecticut.