Ricky Lawson started Capoeira at theage of 16 in Detroit, Michigan.

In the year 2000 he moved to the bay area to train more intensely under a reputable master.

In the year 2013 he became the first African-American to become formado under Mestre Nenel, the son of Mestre Bimba the most respected and influential capoeira master.

In 2016 Malandro became the highest ranking American in Capoeira Regional after completing the first specialization course.

He currently runs the Filhos de Bimba Bay Area school for Capoeira in the east bay. The art of Capoeira has multiple benefits to both children and adults. Professor Malandro has taught classes both nationally and internationally including Mexico, Japan, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, the Philippines, Germany and Switzerland.