Today we’d like to introduce you to Alê Moss.
Hi Alê, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in Brazil, but my journey took me across the world-from Brazil to New Zealand, and eventually to San Diego. Along the way, I discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
At first, it was a personal pursuit-something that challenged me, grounded me, and gave me a sense of purpose. But over time, I realized JiuJitsu could be so much more than a sport. It’s a tool for growth, healing, and transformation.
I saw firsthand how it builds confidence, emotional control, and resilience-especially in kids and women. That’s what inspired me to start teaching. Eventually, I met my first business partner, who planted the seed in my heart to open an academy and with the precious support of dear friends and boyfriend. In the beginning, it was small: just a few mats, a focus on kids and women, and a lot of heart.
Today, I’m partnered with two incredible people, one who brings deep Jiu-Jitsu experience, the other a strong background in the fitness industry and business. Together, we’ve built something that reflects who we are: hardworking, grounded, and community-driven people.
Our goal is to create a space where people have the tools to learn JiuJitsu with clarity around belt promotions, an open-door culture that welcomes students from all teams, and a strong support system-on and off the mats.
My story is still unfolding, but I’m proud of where it’s taken me—and even more excited for what’s ahead.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all—and I wouldn’t expect it to be. Growth rarely happens in comfort.
Starting out as a woman in a male-dominated sport came with its own challenges. I had to learn how to speak up, take space, and trust my instincts—not just on the mats, but in business, too. There were moments of doubt, moments where I questioned if I was doing enough or if I even belonged in the room. But I kept showing up, kept learning, and leaned into the discomfort.
Injuries were another major turning point. I’ve had to navigate physical setbacks that not only tested my patience but forced me to slow down and study the body in a deeper way. Those moments led me to explore body mechanics, recovery, and movement science—not just to heal myself, but to better guide my students and help them prevent injuries too. What started as personal necessity became part of my teaching philosophy.
Opening an academy came with its own growing pains, from managing finances and relationships to building a culture that truly reflects our values. But every challenge taught me something. Whether it was setting boundaries, asking for help, or learning how to lead with wisdom and a strong heart, it all shaped who I am and how I show up.
The road hasn’t been smooth, but it’s been transformative. And every step, every bump, it has made the mission stronger.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We’re a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy based in San Diego, grounded in movement, community, and purpose. For us, Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just about competition or tradition. It’s about showing up, doing the work, and becoming stronger from the inside out. Whether you’re just starting out or leveling up, we’re here to guide and support your journey in a space that feels welcoming, real, and rooted in values that matter.
Our academy is known for being friendly, transparent, and open-minded. We’ve created a space where people from all teams and backgrounds can train together, no politics, no pressure. We welcome beginners, kids, hobbyists, and high-level athletes alike—anyone ready to learn, move. We’re especially proud of our kids’ and women’s programs, and of one of our black belts who began training Jiu-Jitsu at age 52 and earned her black belt by 63, what a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to start. Our programs focus on building confidence, physical and emotional control, and supporting growth in all areas of life through JJ.
What sets us apart from everyone else is our balance. We have two black belts leading the academy, each with different strengths and international roots (Brazil, Europe, the U.S., and New Zealand)—alongside a third partner with deep experience in gym operations and fitness. That combination allows us to offer high-level instruction with a modern, thoughtful approach to training and personal development.
Brand-wise, what we’re most proud of is the culture we’ve built. It’s raw, real, and respectful. There’s no ego here.
No “who’s who” politics. Just people learning from each other, lifting each other up, and tapping into the true superpower: showing up consistently!
If there’s one thing we want readers to know about our academy, it’s that we’re not here to be trendy—we’re here to be meaningful. We want everyone who walks through our doors to feel like this is a sport that belongs to them, and to leave feeling stronger, sharper, and more connected to themselves and their community.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is playing soccer with my dad in the yard while the smell of my mom’s cooking drifted out from the kitchen. She’d always make these most incredible meals—simple, homemade, and filled with love. Afterward, we’d all wind down together working in the garden, planting, watering, just being outside as a family.
Those moments felt small at the time, but they taught me so much—how to be present, how to care for something with patience, and how strong the bond of shared effort can be.
Pricing:
- Drop in $20
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sagazjiujitsu.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sagazjiujitsu/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Sagaz-Jiu-Jitsu-61556515439400/
