Our recent mission to Colombia in early February was a powerful reminder of something we see everywhere we go: Jiu-Jitsu is not just a sport. It’s a tool for social development, cultural connection, and long-term opportunity. This project brought together international leadership and grassroots community work, led by Alexa Yanes (United States) and Ángel Gómez […]
Building Bridges Through Jiu-Jitsu in Colombia Read More »
Alexa traveled to Guayaquil, Ecuador to continue expanding jiu-jitsu outreach and support within the local community, marking a new country of involvement for this ongoing project. The trip included two seminars, each serving a different but equally important role in the Ecuadorian jiu-jitsu ecosystem. Alliance Guayaquil Seminar Alexa taught a seminar at Alliance Guayaquil, led
Ecuador Trip Recap | Guayaquil, Ecuador Read More »
Our mission in Baja California began with a heartfelt visit to the Rocian Gracie Jr. Academy in Playa de Tijuana—a community academy led with purpose by purple belt Christopher Rigell and his partner Alejandra. What they’ve built is special: a welcoming, family-driven environment that already serves dozens of kids from the local municipality, with classes
Seminar Visit: Rocian Gracie Jr. Academy – Playa de Tijuana Read More »
Camino a San José de la Zorra, Baja California, Mexico Our mission at Groundwork Foundation has always been to meet communities where they are, listen deeply, and bring meaningful support through connection, mentorship, and jiujitsu. During our visit to Door of Faith Orphanage (Orfanatorio Puerta de Fe) in Baja California, we felt that mission come
Groundwork Foundation Outreach at Door of Faith Orphanage (Orfanatorio Puerta de Fe) Read More »
Groundwork Foundation’s work in Guatemala grew naturally through trusted relationships built in Mexico. With the support of Top Brother and longtime collaborator Angel Hernández, Groundwork was able to connect with academies and communities throughout Central America and Latin America that are often overlooked in the global Jiu-Jitsu landscape. While Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is deeply established in
Guatemala & Central America – Expanding Jiu-Jitsu Across Latin America Read More »
Groundwork Foundation partnered with the Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY) and Dominio Combat Club in Mérida to help establish the first university-accredited Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program in Mexico. What began as a student-run club, led by coaches from Dominio Combat Club, grew steadily over several years as student interest and participation increased. Athletes trained both on
UADY x Groundwork Foundation – Building Mexico’s First University Jiu-Jitsu Program Read More »
Puebla, Mexico was the very first city where Groundwork Foundation began its work—long before there was a formal structure or long-term plan. What started as a good-natured effort between friends quickly became the blueprint for everything that followed. Through a close relationship with Top Brother, led by René Hernández Ramírez, Groundwork was introduced to multiple
Puebla, Mexico – Groundwork’s First Pilot Project Read More »
During our time in Cebu City, The Groundwork Foundation had the opportunity to host a jiu-jitsu seminar at Strive CCA, arranged in collaboration with head instructor Lem Maglinte. The seminar brought together a strong and diverse group of practitioners from across the region, with approximately 50 attendees on the mats. The training focused on open
Jiu-Jitsu Seminar at Strive CCA – Cebu City, Philippines Read More »
A Journey of Service, Connection, and Purpose This past November, The Groundwork Foundation had the honor of visiting the Philippines for one the most meaningful and impactful trips in our organization’s short history. What began as a simple idea — using jiu-jitsu as a vehicle for opportunity — evolved into a nationwide effort to support
Laying the Groundwork in the Philippines – November 2025 Read More »
Southern Leyte: When Grit Meets Opportunity Long before we ever set foot in Southern Leyte, we had already begun carrying it with us. We first heard about a group of kids from Ronin Jiu Jitsu – Leyte / Gotosan Team training four to six hours a day—on worn mats in front of their local chapel,
Maasin City, Southern Leyte – November 2025 Read More »
