- Condução - The main purpose of the samba leader is to guide the escola de samba (samba school) along the parade route. They do this by using a series of hand gestures and body movements to communicate with the bateria (drum section) and the passistas (dancers).
- Animação - The samba leader also has an important role in motivating and inspiring the escola de samba. They do this by singing, chanting, and dancing, and by encouraging the crowd to join in.
- Symbol of the escola - The samba leader is also a symbol of the school and represents the identity and spirit of the school.