Any community is a reflection of its leaders. At GB Sainte-Anne, that spirit begins with Professor Marcelo Bonança.
Marcelo’s path to Jiu-Jitsu was anything but ordinary. He grew up surrounded by martial arts, first in judo, where he was even a young “mascot” for Brazil’s national team. But life pulled him into a fast-paced career in finance: long hours, endless meetings, constant travel. Jiu-Jitsu had to wait.
Years later, while living in Toronto, Marcelo felt the call again. He stepped back on the mats, training alongside world-class names like Bruno Fernandes. From that moment, he never looked back. Returning to Brazil, Marcelo began training under Leão Teixeira, one of the legendary cofounders of Gracie Barra. He immersed himself in teaching children, community programs, and competitions, discovering that his true purpose wasn’t in boardrooms, but in the transformational power of Jiu-Jitsu.
In 2016, Marcelo received his black belt, later earning his degrees directly from Master Carlos Gracie Jr. He has since lived by one clear principle: lead by example. Competing, teaching, and training with unwavering consistency, he proves daily to his students that progress is built through discipline and dedication, no matter when you start.
That same principle shapes GB Sainte-Anne today. More than a martial arts school, it is a welcoming community where families feel at home, children grow in confidence, and adults challenge themselves to levels they never thought possible - whether that means improving fitness, finding balance, or standing on the podium at competitions.
At GB Sainte-Anne, Jiu-Jitsu is not only taught, it’s lived. And every student who steps on the mats becomes part of a legacy that continues to grow in Quebec.