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

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

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

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