Welcome to Gracie Barra Lincoln Jiu-Jitsu School

Professor Mel Doran embarked on her martial arts journey in 2008, training in taekwondo, street self-defense, and kickboxing. In 2009, she discovered Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and immediately knew it was her path to self-improvement. 

In 2016, Mel joined the Gracie Barra family, teaching both adults and kids programs at GB Arnold and GB Nottingham under the guidance of World Champion Professor Victor Estima. 

Mel reached a significant milestone in her Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2018 when she was awarded her black belt, becoming one of only 16 women in the UK to achieve this rank at the time. In June 2021, she was promoted to 1st degree black belt by Professor Victor Estima. 

On June 8, 2024, Mel achieved another milestone, being promoted to 2nd degree black belt by Professor Victor Estima. 

Her dream is to share the art of Jiu-Jitsu with as many people as possible and contribute to building a brighter, better future.

Professor Paul Doran began his martial arts journey in 2008 with kickboxing. After attending a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class by a guest instructor, he was captivated and sought out a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu club where he could train. He spent almost 8 years consistently training Jiu-Jitsu in Sheffield. 

In 2016, Paul moved to Nottingham to train under Professor Victor Estima. Embracing the Gracie Barra teaching methods and structured approach to learning, Paul was promoted to Black Belt in 2018. He continues to share his knowledge with students at GB Lincoln. 

Recently, Paul was awarded his 2nd-degree Black Belt, further cementing his commitment to the art.