Trainers
Tiago – Head Professor and Founder
Tiago, a Black Belt under Carlson Gracie Zurich (2022), began his BJJ journey in 2013 and has since become a dedicated kids and adults professor. His outgoing nature and commitment to continuous improvement make him an inspiring leader and mentor within the Tiago de Paula BJJ community. Tiago is passionate about encouraging and motivating his students to always keep practicing and striving for growth, both on and off the mats.
Hian – BJJ Kids and Adults Coach
Hian Finocchio is a dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt under Luiz Finocchio, with a strong passion for developing young talent. Specializing in coaching kids, Hian has produced numerous successful competitors, instilling discipline, technique, and a competitive mindset in the next generation of BJJ athletes.
Pedro – BJJ Kids Professor
Pedro is a black belt under Marko Leisten and has been practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 2012. He became a full-time BJJ instructor in 2021, starting his teaching career here at Tiago de Paula BJJ. Pedro is known for his patience and his comfort with a bit of chaos—making him a perfect fit as a kids’ coach (ask him about the “takedown spiel”!). He also teaches adult classes, with a focus on movement and defense rather than positions and submissions. As he says, “It’s hard to submit a moving target.”
Pedro teaches fluently in German, Portuguese, and English.
Raquel – Guest Professor
Raquel, a Black Belt under ZR Team Association (London, 2022), began her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2013. With extensive teaching experience in Portugal and England, Raquel brings her expertise to Tiago de Paula BJJ when visiting Zurich, where she assists in Women’s and Adult Classes. Known for her technical precision and attention to detail, Raquel is an excellent professor who is highly motivated and goal-oriented. A successful competitor with impressive achievements at ADCC and IBJJF World Championships, Raquel’s passion for BJJ shines both on the mats and in competition.
Paul – Adult BJJ Professor
Paul, a Black Belt with over a decade of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, began his journey in 2010. Known for his technical expertise and structured teaching style, Paul leads adult BJJ classes that focus on precision and progression. His deep knowledge of BJJ, combined with a clear and methodical approach, ensures that students of all levels can develop their skills and understanding of the art.
Matyas – BJJ Adults Coach
Matyas, a dedicated Purple Belt and BJJ trainer for both kids and adults, started his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2021 at the age of 16. Known for his passion and drive, Matyas is always eager to learn, constantly studying new BJJ techniques and sharing his knowledge with his training partners. In addition to coaching, he enjoys competing and bringing that experience into his classes, helping students grow and improve both on and off the mat.
Fairouz – BJJ Kids Coach Assistant
Fairouz, a White Belt and passionate Kids Coach Assistant, started Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2023 to support and encourage her son’s BJJ journey. Taking a break from her successful banking career, Fairouz is now focused on sharing her enthusiasm for BJJ with the next generation at Tiago de Paula BJJ. Her motivation and focus shine through in her teaching, inspiring young students to develop both their skills and love for the sport.
Elisabetta – BJJ ‘Special Needs Kids’ Coach
Elisabetta, a Blue Belt who began training with Tiago de Paula BJJ in 2022, is the creator of the BJJ for All Program, which provides adaptive BJJ classes for neurodivergent children. Inspired by her son’s progress as an autistic BJJ student since 2021, Elisabetta has developed a unique curriculum combining her technical knowledge in BJJ with her expertise in behavioural intervention. Her program is designed to help children of all abilities experience the benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and use in real life their achievements.