Ryan Randolph Johnson, Pastor to his fellow capoeiristas, was born and raised in the Jamaica section of Queens New York. In February of 2001, he began training the Afro-Brazilian art of Capoeira with Freddy Correa, Furacão.  Although Pastor initially found Capoeira to be overwhelming due to the numerous tasks he needed to accomplish;  physical training, play instruments, sing, learn to speak Portuguese, etc, he was fascinated with the art form.

A turning point for Pastor came in the summer of 2001, when the ABADÁ-Capoeira organization hosted its IV World Congress in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.  Here, capoeiristas from all over the world gather to learn, teach, and play Capoeira. One of Pastor’s most passionate dreams had finally come true, the opportunity to see Capoeira in its natural habitat.  He joined his fellow classmates and teacher on a trip to Brazil that he would never forget.  

The journey to Brazil answered a question that constantly puzzled him “What is it about Capoeira that consumes me?”  The physical trainings were extremely intense but most notably, was the emphasis on the importance Capoeira has in Brazilian history and culture.  Through this cultural exchange Pastor learned why Capoeira differs so greatly from all other forms of martial arts.  He also had the honor and privilege to see dedicated and avid capoeiristas compete during the ABADA Capoeira World Games which are simultaneously held during the World Congress.

Pastor returned to New York City more focused than ever. His goal was to be an efficient Capoeirista and eventually, a teacher of the art and culture he held so close to his heart.  Pastor’s trainings became harder and more tedious however this did not bother him. He was also aware that as he grew within the rank system, the world, his teacher and he himself would demand more. With each new rank Pastor had to re-evaluate his position within his group and determine whether or not he was truly worthy.  

In 2002 the Brazilian Games were held in Rio de Janeiro. Pastor was unable to attend but continued his training in the U.S.  His skills improved dramatically. Instead of just paying monthly dues and attending the classes, he utilized his free time learning Capoeira songs, practicing playing instruments, and fine tuning his acrobatic skills.  Pastor later appeared with his teacher and advanced classmates on local television stations and several national television networks.

All this work paid off when in the summer of 2003 Pastor’s teacher, Instrutor Furacão gave him a very prestigious opportunity to teach Capoeira at an after school program sponsored by Loisaida Inc. Up until this point, Pastor had always been a student of Capoeira now was his chance to become a teacher. The after school program was very fulfilling for him because he was also working with under-privileged children, a population that Pastor feels has been under-served by society as a whole.

Capoeira has given Pastor the opportunity to literally see the world.  Having grown up under-privileged in Jamaica Queens, Pastor never dreamed he would leave New York State. In August 2003 he returned to Brazil to participate in the 5th World Congress.  The following April Pastor was determined to venture abroad yet again, in search of more Capoeira, this time in Brussels, Belgium where the European Games were being held. In Brussels Pastor was exposed to more languages, customs, foods, and people; however he and everyone around him were present for one common purpose Capoeira.

Pastor continues to train and grow in the world of Capoeira. To him everyone is welcome to learn, participate, and enjoy the fruits of this Afro-Brazilian manifestation. Pastor believes the culture of Capoeira teaches one not only to be a champion in Capoeira, but in life. These are the lessons that Pastor has learned and wants to pass onto others as they face the trials everyday life.