Batizado is an initiation ceremony, welcoming new members to the group by presenting their first cordão (belt), and also a time when students with more experience are awarded their next cardao.
In Capoeira, students are graded according to their level of discipline, skill, knowledge and musicality. However also a student’s overall participation in the group is looked at and awarded accordingly, so it’s not just about the skill of Capoeira but also the commitment to the group.
Hence, one is not necessarily awarded the next belt every year. There are two grading systems, one for below 15 years old and one for adults (16 years and above)