Meet our experienced instructors who are committed to helping you succeed in Jiu-Jitsu.
At Gracie Barra, we believe in structured, safe, and effective training for all levels.
Our instructors are Gracie Barra Certified and continually refine their teaching skills.
Professor Nivian Hernandez - Head Instructor
Black Belt
ICP 2025
Originally from Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, Professor Nivian Hernandez brings her passion for Jiu-Jitsu and years of experience to Gracie Barra Anthem. A dedicated competitor and strategist, she combines her love for teaching with the values of discipline, respect, and perseverance that Jiu-Jitsu inspires.
Professor Nivian earned her Black Belt under Professors Leonardo Oliveira, Vinicius “Draculino” Magalhães, and Carlos Gracie Jr. Over the years, she has built a remarkable competition career, standing out in both national and international tournaments.
Some of her most notable achievements include:
Beyond her competitive record, Professor Nivian is passionate about sharing the art of Jiu-Jitsu with her students. Her goal is to help each student grow—on the mats and in life—by applying the philosophy of “Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone.”
Coach Adrian Hernandez - Program Director
Brown Belt
ICP 2025
Adrian Hernandez is the Program Director of Gracie Barra Anthem and has been part of the Gracie Barra family for nearly a decade.
He began his journey as one of the founding students of Gracie Barra Scottsdale, where he developed a deep passion for Jiu-Jitsu and the GB philosophy. His dedication to training and personal development recently led him to compete in his first IBJJF Phoenix Open at the brown belt level, where he proudly earned gold. Outside of training, Adrian focuses on building strong connections with students and families, ensuring everyone feels supported from their very first class.
His role as Program Director is to help guide the academy’s growth and to maintain the world-class standards of Gracie Barra while fostering a family-oriented culture. Adrian is passionate about creating opportunities for both kids and adults to discover the benefits of Jiu-Jitsu — from self-defense and fitness to confidence and community. His vision is to make Gracie Barra Anthem a home for anyone ready to grow on and off the mats.
