Mallorca BJJ and Yoga Fest 2025 - Spring Edition

Mauricio Gomes

Mauricio Gomes is a holds the rank of 8th degree White and Red belt. He is the founder of the first Gracie Barra franchise in the United Kingdom, and has been training and teaching BJJ for over 50 years. He is one of only six people promoted to black belt by Rolls Gracie, who is considered a legend in the sport. Gomes is also the father of Roger Gracie, who is widely recognized as one of the most accomplished Jiu Jitsu competitors of all time.

Daniel Strauss

Daniel Strauss (aka “The Raspberry Ape”) is a Jiu Jitsu Black belt known for putting a big emphasis on strength and conditioning. He is an active and successful competitor with many achievements at the highest level of the competitive scene:

• IBJJF No-Gi European Champion
• British and English Champion (Black Belt)
• NAGA elite European Champion
• Number one ranked Black Belt by the UKBJJA
• ADCC, Polaris, EBI and Quintet Veteran

Sebastian Brosche

Sebastian Brosche, a Swedish BJJ black belt and certified yogi, is a European champion with repeated open victories and world titles in his belt. Known for Yoga for BJJ, he's committed to preserving bodies in grappling. Starting with Judo, he transitioned to BJJ in 2007, driven by his attributes. Under notable mentors like Peter Blackwell and Eduardo Rios, he evolved. Battling injuries, Sebastian turned to yoga, discovering his life partner and a new purpose. Alongside his wife, he founded Yoga for BJJ, supporting countless athletes in maintaining fitness and flexibility over time.

Clark Gracie

Clark Gracie is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitor and member of the Gracie family. He is the grandson of Carlos Gracie, one of the founders of Gracie Jiu Jitsu and the first eldest son of Carley Gracie, the father of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in the United States. He is known for his signature omoplata finish, which earned him the Submission of the Year award from the World Jiu Jitsu Expo in 2013. Clark is considered one of the most active competitors from the Gracie lineage.

• 1st Place IBJJF Pans Championship (2013)
• 1st Place IBJJF World Championship NoGi (2018 Master 1)
• 1st Place UAEJJF US National Pro (2015)
• 1st Place UAEJJF Grand Slam, TYO (2015)
• 1st Place IBJJF American Nationals (2010)
• 2nd Place IBJJF World Championship NoGi (2012)
• 3rd Place IBJJF World Championship (2011)
• 3rd Place IBJJF Pans Championship (2011)

Natalie Day

Hailing from Oxford, England, Natalie holds the distinction of being the first woman in the UK to independently own and manage her own jiu-jitsu academy, GROW JIU JITSU, where she has dedicated the past decade to coaching. In addition to her academy, she spearheads an innovative jiu-jitsu events company known as GROW EVENTS. Natalie is committed to the future of UK jiu-jitsu, pioneering the country's inaugural official apprenticeship program designed for young individuals aspiring to pursue a full-time career in jiu-jitsu. A trailblazer in her own right, Natalie proudly bears the title of the first female black belt under Mauricio Gomes and currently holds the esteemed position of European champion.

Ross Nicholls

Ross Nicholls is a black belt under professors César Lima and Roger Gracie. He is a top competitor at the British and European scenes and well known for his achievements at major international events such as the Polaris Jiu Jitsu Invitational and the ADCC European Trials.

Jonathan Thomas

Jonathan Thomas, often known as Jon Thomas, achieved the rank of Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt under the tutelage of Master Romero Cavalcanti (Jacaré) and Lucas Lepri. He extensively collaborated with Rubens Charles (Cobrinha) and Rodrigo Vaghi. Thomas rose to prominence through his remarkable performances in the lower divisions of BJJ's global competitive scene, securing multiple victories at the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) World and Pan American Championships. Subsequently, as a black belt competitor and coach, Jonathan enjoyed a successful tenure with the Swedish grappling academy, Valhalla Jiu-Jitsu.

Chris “Kit” Macken

Chris, a brown belt from the UK, is a top-level competitor who recently won his debut match at Polaris with a leg lock. His classes will concentrate solely on leg techniques, including setups, entries, counters, and finishes. Even for those who are not particularly interested in leg locks, learning escapes is crucial. The best way to master escapes is by reverse-engineering the system.

Simon Kenion Shears

In 2022, Simon published 'Working (it) Out: What Actually Makes Us Exercise?' In the book, he challenges common beliefs about motivation and self-discipline, offering a new perspective on exercise. By exploring evolutionary psychology, he explains that activities like running on a treadmill or lifting weights are natural, driven by underlying biological motives. While writing the book, Simon also wrote a health and fitness column for the Majorca Daily Bulletin. After the book's release, he founded Fresh Fitness Clubs in January 2023, an outdoor fitness business aimed at making exercise a habit for more people.

Daniel Vivas

Daniel, an arm wrestling coach and competitor, recently won bronze at the Arnold Classic in Madrid. He will conduct two seminars during the week and host “beat the champ” games where participants can challenge him. He will bring two arm wrestling tables for the seminars, which will remain available for the duration of the festival for friendly matches. Originally from Zaragoza, Spain, Daniel now resides in Mallorca. When he's not arm wrestling, he works full-time as a helicopter pilot for the National Police.

Luke Wills

Luke, who was raised in Mallorca by British parents, embarked on a journey of self-improvement that led him to travel the world and train with some of the best trainers in their respective fields. His adventures have taken him to incredible places such as diving in the Andaman Sea, training in Thai boxing for a year in Thailand, and climbing Mt. Sniezka in Poland during the winter wearing nothing but shorts. Through his experiences and training, Luke has learned that we are capable of achieving much more than we realize, and that true health and freedom require mastery of both the mind and body. By incorporating techniques such as breathing, movement, meditation, and reconnection with the natural environment, we can unlock our innate potential for happiness, strength, and wellness.

Fiona

Fiona is an energy healer and an international guide for cacao medicine. Her spaces provide a secure environment for individuals to connect with the profound wisdom that resides within and rediscover their true essence. By using ceremonial cacao, a gentle yet powerful plant medicine, Fiona invites and guides individuals on a journey of self-discovery and inner healing, helping them to reconnect with their empathy and emotions. Each session provides a moment of stillness for individuals to honor and listen to the wisdom of their hearts and bodies. Fiona's sessions typically involve a combination of meditation, intentional breathing, intuitive movement, introspection, and deep gratitude. She is committed to learning from Mayan spiritual leaders to honor and respect their traditions associated with this ancient medicine.

Gongoro - Gong Bath

Gongoro, a professional gong player hailing from Italy, splits his time between Mallorca and Tulum. He received his training at the Adinadd Art Gong School, which is based on Yogi Bhajan's teachings. Having completed more than 300 hours of training, Gongoro graduated as a sound therapist of gong in Tulum, under the tutelage of gong master Har Harí. The power of the gong lies in its vibrations, which come from the universe and have the ability to transmit regenerative energy to all the cells of the body through the neutral mind. This universal vibration can aid in the release of old traumas and fears, promoting personal healing. Additionally, it can help individuals connect with their higher self, awaken their intuition, and even develop telepathic abilities. You're cordially invited to participate in the gong bath every day at 5pm, and experience the transformative power of the gong for yourself.

Vladimir Semenčić and Daniela Trtinjak Semenčić

Vladimir Semenčić, along with his wife Daniela Trtinjak Semenčić, is a prominent figure in the salsa entertainment scene. Having met in a dance studio during their university days, their shared passion led to the creation of the Croatian Summer Salsa Festival in 2005 under the SEASUNSALSA brand. This annual event, drawing over 5,000 attendees worldwide, features dance lessons, beach events, boat trips, live concerts, and parties. Embarking on their dance journey when salsa was less known, they traveled globally, acquiring knowledge and nurturing a vision to popularize salsa in Croatia. In 2012, they introduced the Summer Sensual Days, a bachata and kizomba event that attracts dance enthusiasts from 80+ countries. This 14-day dance holiday aligns with their renowned Croatian Summer Salsa Festival. Beyond their involvement in salsa, Vladimir and Daniela are immersed in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Yoga, and holistic movement, emphasizing personal growth.

Elena Aloisio

Originally from Italy, Elena began her journey as a skilled sailor before becoming a full-time freediving instructor. Driven by her passion for the ocean and a desire for stability, she transitioned three years ago from the yachting industry to teaching freediving for Apnea Academy, AIDA, and SSI in Mallorca. A marine biologist and certified Yoga and Pranayama teacher, Elena combines her expertise to offer unique freediving experiences. She is dedicated to helping others overcome fears and push mental limits, earning a reputation for her confidence, friendliness, and professionalism.

Jelena Lieberberg

At the age of 12, Jelena began practicing yoga using a Croatian book from her mother. She later worked as a presenter for German television and toured as a singer before taking her first yoga teacher training in 2009. Since then, Jelena has been teaching yoga and currently resides in Berlin as a Yoga instructor, writer, Naturopath, and speaker. She offers workshops and personal training sessions all over Europe, incorporating her unique and dynamic KICK ASS YOGA style. Jelena's first book introducing her style was published in 2017. After completing her Naturopathy training in 2012, Jelena discovered the Dorn/Breuss method, Tibetan Massage, and Hypno-Therapy, which led her to a more holistic path.

Stine Hegre

In 2009, Stine embarked on her yoga journey following the completion of her initial yoga teacher training. Since 2012, she has devoted herself to being a full-time yoga instructor. Stine holds certifications in a variety of yoga styles, including Vinyasa, Rocket, Yin, Restorative, Yoganidra, pre and postnatal yoga, Acro Yoga, and Breath Work. Having had the privilege of learning from exceptional teachers worldwide, she draws inspiration from each, infusing creativity, flow, and challenges into her classes while always allowing space for personalization. Students are encouraged to modify and tailor their practice to meet their individual needs. Stine is excited about the opportunity to once again share transformative experiences with like-minded individuals and eagerly anticipates welcoming you to the practice.

Helena Rosenthal

At the age of 19, Helena embraced Ashtanga Vinyasa, which led her to the KPJAYI school in India in 2008. By 2014, she had earned a level 2 authorization from her mentor Sharath Jois. For more than a decade, she taught in São Paulo, including at her own shala, Ashtanga Pitanga, and conducted guest classes across Portugal, France, and Germany. In 2016, Helena made the transition to London, where she directed the Mysore program at Triyoga Chelsea for three years before furthering her studies under Gregor Maehle in Bali. In 2019, she relocated to Valencia to advance her practice and eventually settled in Mallorca. In addition to conducting consistent Ashtanga workshops and online classes, Helena passionately integrates her love for music, particularly in Kirtans—Sanskrit chanting sessions accompanied by musical instruments. Helena sees the practice as crucial in nurturing relationships with oneself, time, and others.

Anne-Christin

Anne-Christin, an Embodiment Coach, utilizes various techniques such as body movement, posture, intuitive dancing, mindfulness, breathing, art, and Reiki to encourage positive transformation. She aims to help individuals detach from their thoughts and connect with their body and heart. Through group workshops and personalized coaching sessions, Anne-Christin guides individuals to tune into their body, trust their intuition, release emotional blockages, and recognize and transform limiting beliefs and habitual patterns that hinder them from living their fullest potential. This approach is highly effective and brings about beneficial changes and vitality to one's life.

Lillia and Peter

Lilla from Hódmezővásárhely, Hungary, and Peter from Nyíregyháza, Hungary, serve as the founders of Our Yoga Mind. Their mission is dedicated to crafting transformative and mindful yoga experiences that encourage individuals to foster deeper connections with their authentic selves, others, and the elements of nature. Since completing their yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India, in 2018, yoga has become their spiritual, mental, and physical guide toward a more conscious and healthier lifestyle. They seamlessly integrate science and spirituality into their teachings, advocating for a holistic approach to enhance the quality of life and overall well-being. Over the past five years, they have fervently shared their diverse knowledge on the island of Mallorca and online through various classes, including Hatha, Partner- and Acro-, SUP Yoga, Breathwork-, Meditation, and Inside Flow. Additionally, they facilitate Moon Ceremonies, Connection and Sacred Circles, Retreats, and 1:1 Mentoring Sessions.

Angela Selivanova

Angela Selivanova, hailing from Daugavpils, Latvia, began her yoga journey in 2005 and started teaching in 2010. She currently teaches at Bodhana Yoga Studio in Portals Nous, Mallorca. Her yoga practice, profoundly influenced by her training under Paul Dallaghan at Samahita Retreat, has become a cornerstone of her spiritual, mental, and physical well-being. Angela has deepened her practice by studying in India from 2011 to 2020 with esteemed teachers such as R. Sharath Jois, Ajay Kumar, and Vinay Kumar, completing the Vinay Kumar yoga teacher training in 2017. Her teaching encompasses yoga philosophy, Pranayama, meditation, retreats, and mentoring, emphasizing a holistic approach to well-being and fostering connections with oneself and the world.

Tao and Eve

Tao, originally from Mallorca, and Eve, from France, have been exploring various yoga practices for over a decade. Tao, certified in Hatha and Iyengar yoga from India, resides on the island, while Eve splits her time between France and Mallorca, where she leads regular yoga retreats. The duo discovered acro yoga together and fell in love with its playful and dynamic nature. They specialize in acrobatic elements like Icarians, whips, and standing acro. After a few years, they began offering regular classes to the Mallorcan community and at festivals.

Mirjam

Mirjam's spiritual journey began in childhood, as her parents practiced various forms of yoga and her father introduced her to the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda. As a young adult, she decided to undertake a Bhakti Yoga Teacher Training, while also pursuing her passion for singing, which began at the age of 9 when she joined a professional choir in Germany. These experiences helped her develop a vision of helping others reconnect with their inner selves. Through her sessions and workshops, Mirjam guides individuals on a path towards rediscovering their inner and outer voices. Her teachings help individuals release emotional blockages and overcome old assumptions about themselves through the transformative power of ancient mantras.

To Be Announced

Coming Soon!

Joe Notebaert

Joe Notebaert is originally from Phoenix, Arizona, USA and previously was in the travel agency industry for 12 years. He received his black belt from Cesar Lima approved by Roger Gracie in 2017 after 9 1/2 years of training. Learn more about Joe in his short interview for BJJ Camp Finder.