World Champions Guilherme & Rafael Mendes held a massive seminar today at their famed Art of Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Costa Mesa, California. The seminar was the second of the year and aims to raise money for the 'Believe & Achieve' cause started by the Mendes Brothers. Both are giving back to the jiu-jitsu community in a big way by providing an outlet for star students from less affluent backgrounds an avenue to pursue their dreams. Just as they did years earlier.

The Believe & Achieve program was created as our way to give back. We were very fortunate that God placed people in our lives that supported our journey and allowed us to achieve our dreams. Now it is our turn to support others.

During the seminar Gui and Rafa rolled out some of their champion juveniles to not only teach techniques but also take turns leading the seminar. Brad Johnston, Tainan Dalpra, the Flores sisters and more all demonstrated and explained a technique in front of senior students, adults, and cameras rolling with ease. The students proved that executing techniques is only half the battle, effective communication was a big emphasis on the day.

I'm proud of my achievements but I feel it's my duty to use the opportunities and resources that I have now to help people. Once you succeed and have the ability to help others, why not?

...said the 6x World Champion Rafa Mendes. The two brothers held their first Believe & Achieve seminar at Atos HQ in San Diego California just last month. The Mendes bros made it clear that developing the future of jiu-jitsu will continue to be a priority for them. 



Gui Mendes went on to explain that he regularly selects students to demonstrate techniques in front of class during training sessions to help them cement their knowledge of jiu-Jitsu, but more importantly, develop their character and prepare them for future presentations to come - whether it be in the classroom, in their professional careers, or when they are on the mats.

On all accounts the seminar was a wild success with over a hundred people showing up to take part and over $2500 raised for the charity. To learn more about the cause visit AoJ's website.

Sunday February 19th the Mendes Brothers will continue their investment into the future when they bring over ninety students to the massive youth event Kids Pans. Art of Jiu-Jitsu along with Atos Jiu-Jitsu have claimed the team trophy four years in a row and are looking to make it five.