Today we’d like to introduce you to Diomara Negron.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I became a Jiu-Jitsu instructor because I wanted to share with others what Jiu-Jitsu has done for me. My journey began over a decade ago, after a life-changing event. I was mugged at gunpoint right in front of my home. In that terrifying moment, my instinct was to fight back—but I quickly realized I had no idea how to defend myself.
In the months that followed, I struggled with severe PTSD. I was searching for something that could help me rebuild both my confidence and peace of mind. After careful research, I decided to walk into a Jiu-Jitsu academy and take my first class. That single decision changed the course of my life.
My home school was Gracie Barra San Antonio, where I not only developed as an athlete but experienced personal growth in every area of my life. Jiu-Jitsu gave me discipline, resilience, and a new sense of purpose. It opened doors I never imagined possible, from traveling the world and competing in championships, to eventually achieving a lifelong dream of becoming a school owner.
Today, I’m proud to run Gracie Barra New Braunfels alongside my partner, Professor Fabiana Borges. Together, we are part of a team that oversees four schools, Gracie Barra San Antonio, Gracie Barra Alamo Ranch, Gracie Barra Boerne, and Gracie Barra New Braunfels.
The impact Jiu-Jitsu has had on our students’ lives is something that words can hardly capture. I’ve seen people overcome trauma, transform their health, gain confidence, and find a true sense of family and belonging on the mats.
I love what I do, but what I love most is watching others experience the same transformation that Jiu-Jitsu once gave me.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There are always obstacles on the path to success, and I’ve faced plenty. Moving countries, leaving my family behind, and not speaking the language could have held me back—but I’ve always maintained a “go get it” mindset. Through hard work and dedication, I’ve built myself from nothing to where I am today: Jiu-Jitsu Instructor and school owner, as well as a Senior Accounting Manager for a global company.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and I love teaching classes to everyone in our community. From little ones as young as 3 to adults, I enjoy helping every student grow and gain confidence. Our school focuses on self-defense and is known for making Jiu-Jitsu accessible to everyone. We support kids in overcoming bullying, empower women to overcome the trauma of sexual assault, help military personnel work through their experiences, and guide adults in getting back into shape.
What I am most proud of is the impact we make. Seeing lives change through Jiu-Jitsu is truly amazing and that is exactly why we are here.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I appreciate San Antonio for its blend of history, culture, community and culinary scene, including Tex-Mex. I love how the city fosters a strong sense of community, supported by cultural events, arts, and a lively entertainment scene.
Pricing:
- Free Trial Class
- First Responders/Military Discounts
- Free Month with the mention of this article
Contact Info:
- Website: https://graciebarra.com/tx-new-braunfels/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gbnewbraunfels/
