Alexandre Tsukamoto’s martial arts journey began long before he discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

As a teenager, he started training in Muay Thai, drawn to the discipline, intensity and challenge of striking. It taught him resilience, respect and the value of consistent hard work. But when he was introduced to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu during high school, he found a different kind of martial art.

Instead of punches and kicks, Jiu-Jitsu challenged him to think. Every roll became a puzzle to solve, rewarding patience, technique and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Weekends were spent training with friends, refining techniques and developing a passion for a martial art that values intelligence, patience and problem-solving just as much as physical ability.

The real turning point came after moving to Australia.

Like many people starting a new life in a different country, Alexandre was looking for more than just a place to train. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu became a way to build friendships, improve his confidence, strengthen his English and feel connected to a new community. Through years of dedicated training, he discovered that Jiu-Jitsu offered far more than physical skills, it taught emotional control, resilience, humility and self-belief.

Those lessons would ultimately shape the direction of his life.

As Alexandre experienced the positive impact Jiu-Jitsu had on his own life, he realised he wanted to create a place where others could experience those same benefits. His mission became simple: to make a positive difference in people’s lives through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

That vision became Kazoku Jiu-Jitsu Academy.

The word Kazoku means family in Japanese, reflecting the culture Alexandre has worked hard to build, one where every student feels welcomed, respected and supported from the moment they step onto the mats.

Today, Alexandre coaches children as young as three years old through to teenagers and adults, helping students of all ages build confidence, discipline and resilience. While some members choose to compete at the highest levels, others simply want to become fitter, learn self-defence or enjoy being part of a positive community. Every student’s journey is valued equally.

At Kazoku, coaching extends far beyond teaching techniques.

Over the years, Alexandre has developed a structured curriculum for every age group, ensuring students learn progressively while enjoying each stage of their Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey. From the academy’s youngest Little Samurai students through to the Young Samurai leadership program, teenagers and adults, every class follows a clear pathway designed to develop both technical skills and personal growth.

His coaching philosophy is simple:

Great coaching isn’t measured by how many champions you produce. It’s measured by the positive impact you have on the people who trust you with their journey.

While medals and competition success are achievements to celebrate, Alexandre believes the greatest victories happen off the mats, when a shy child finds confidence, when a teenager develops discipline, when an adult overcomes challenges, or when families grow stronger through a shared passion.

That philosophy is reflected in everything Kazoku stands for.

Our academy is built on respect, humility, continuous improvement and genuine community. Whether you’re stepping onto the mats for the very first time or preparing for your next tournament, you’ll be surrounded by coaches and teammates who genuinely want to see you succeed.

At Kazoku, you’re never just another membership.

You’re part of a family.

Every class is another opportunity to build confidence, create lifelong friendships, develop resilience and become the best version of yourself, on and off the mats.

Our vision is bigger than teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

We believe this art has the power to change lives, strengthen families and create a more connected community. Every student who joins Kazoku becomes part of that mission.

If you’re looking for more than just a martial arts academy, if you’re looking for a place to belong, to challenge yourself and to grow, we’d be honoured to welcome you.

We look forward to meeting you and your family.

See you on the mats.