Send us Fan Mail

What is the hardest thing to teach in Kizomba?

For Angolan Kizomba and Semba dancer, teacher and choreographer Fanio de Araújo, the answer might surprise you. It's not the flashy moves, tricks or lifts. It's mastering the fundamentals.

In this episode of Kizomba Conversations, we sit down with Fanio at Kizomba Treat in Belgium to explore his journey from a shy young dancer in Angola to an internationally recognised Kizomba and Semba teacher, known for his distinctive footwork and musicality.

Fanio shares why learning the basics properly is so important, why dancing to the music takes more than simply learning steps, and what dancers outside Angola can learn about connecting with the floor, transferring their weight and understanding the rhythm.

To connect with Fanio check him out on:

Instagram: Fanio de Araújo
Facebook: Fanio de Araújo
Youtube: Fanio de Araújo

Follow us:
Visit our website: https://Kizombaconversations.com/
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Kizombaconversations/
Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kizomba.conversations

If you enjoy our conversations about Kizomba, it's culture, and community feel free to:

👍 LIKE | 💬 COMMENT | 🔔 SUBSCRIBE | ✅ SHARE

Send us Fan Mail

Richard Voogt, a passionate Kizomba teacher from the UK shares his journey from a sports-loving youth in South Africa to discovering dance at university in England.

He discusses his experiences living and working in the USA, the challenges he faced, and how he eventually transitioned into teaching dance. Richard emphasizes the importance of community in dance and reflects on his decision to return to the UK to establish his dance school, Rhythm and Vibes Dance Company.

In this conversation, Richard shares his journey of transitioning from a research career to pursuing his passion for dance full-time. He discusses the challenges and successes of building a dance school in England, the cultural differences in dance across various countries, and the importance of community and connection in the dance world.

Richard also reflects on the impact of the pandemic on the arts and how he navigated funding opportunities to sustain his dance school. Finally, he delves into his teaching philosophy, emphasizing clarity, connection, and the joy of dance.

In this conversation, Richard shares his deep passion for Kizomba and Semba, discussing cultural insights, culinary experiences, and the evolution of these dance forms. He addresses common misconceptions about Kizomba, emphasizing its familial nature and the importance of community in dance.

Richard reflects on his global teaching experiences, the connections formed through dance, and offers valuable advice for new dancers. He highlights the significance of asking questions and engaging with teachers to enhance the learning experience.

To connect with Richard check him out on:

Instagram: RichardVoogt
Facebook: RichardVoogt

Follow us:
Visit our website: https://Kizombaconversations.com/
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Kizombaconversations/
Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kizomba.conversations

If you enjoy our conversations about Kizomba, it's culture, and community feel free to:

👍 LIKE | 💬 COMMENT | 🔔 SUBSCRIBE | ✅ SHARE

Send us Fan Mail

DJ Tó Costa joins Kizomba Conversations to discuss the roots of Kizomba and Semba, the global growth of Angolan dance culture, and why education is essential for the future of the scene. Recorded at Kizomba Treat in Belgium, this episode covers:

• Tó Costa’s journey from Angola to London

• Why basic technique matters in Kizomba

• The relationship between Semba, Kizomba, and Tarraxinha

• Why teachers and DJs need stronger standards

• How culture, history, and music shape the dance

Whether you are new to Kizomba or already part of the scene, this conversation offers valuable insight into the history, structure, and future of the dance.

To connect with Tó Costa check him out on:
Instagram: Tó Costa D’ Angola
Facebook: Tó Costa D’ Angola

Follow us:
Visit our website: https://kizombaconversations.com/
Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kizombaconversations/
Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kizomba.conversations

If you enjoy our conversations about Kizomba, it's culture, and community feel free to:

👍 LIKE | 💬 COMMENT | 🔔 SUBSCRIBE | ✅ SHARE