Bernardo Veiga – Owner/Head Instructor

Professor Bernardo is an experienced Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) professor with a rich background in martial arts that began at the age of 6 with judo. He started training in BJJ in 2006 at the renowned Gracie Barra Matriz in Rio de Janeiro, where his passion for the art flourished. With a comprehensive skill set that includes boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA), he began competing in BJJ in 2010, participating in prestigious tournaments across Brazil, Canada, and the United States.

In 2014, he began his coaching career as an assistant coach, and in 2019, he moved to Canada as a purple belt to work as both a coach and athlete, excelling in Gi and Nogi disciplines. He served as the kids’ head coach at Gracie Barra Kitsilano before being promoted to brown belt in 2021, eventually becoming the head coach of Gracie Barra Vancouver.

In 2023, he achieved two major milestones: becoming the owner of Gracie Barra Central Richmond and being promoted to black belt after 18 years of dedication to BJJ. He now leads the Gracie Barra Richmond team as head coach, overseeing a team of 8 coaches from orange to brown belt, where he continues to inspire and develop athletes at all levels.