Brenda Oca
When did you start dancing Salsa?
April 2007
What inspired you to start dancing salsa ?
I’ve always loved dancing! I’m all about having a balanced life and dancing is one of my ways of keeping that balance. Dancing has always featured throughout my life – I’ve done some ballet, modern dancing, zouk, kizomba, semba, samba, hip-hop, kwasa-kwasa. I’m just excited and curious about learning different dances and increasing my dance skills.
One thing that I can definitely say that convinced me to learn salsa, was watching the Latin-American dancers on TV, be it on dance shows, movies and yes Dirty Dancing(Havana Nights). There’s a freedom, a sense of release, contentment and energy that covers you when you dance. Regardless of how good you are, it is just you and the music (oh yes your partner as well). In those moments you can leave your soul on the dance floor, know that there is complete synergy and that you are becoming better!
Like a language that enables you to connect with other people, dance does the same. It’s just another example, that regardless of our different backgrounds and experiences we all have one more thing in common.
What/who inspires you to keep dancing?
The Salsa Spirit Team, all the amazing dancers and students that I see at the parties and workshops!
Knowing that when I dance it is my way of saying thank-you to God for my health, the opportunity to meeting different people and staying fit by doing something I love!
What Salsa Style do you teach?
I’m still learning – so far its Cuban style. My journey continues!
Is salsa your only/main profession? If not, details?
No, I’m a management consultant. I’m a talented and destiny filled woman!
What was the funniest/most embarrassing salsa moment?
In salsa the guy is supposed to lead… now I occasionally have this habit of leading –just to check that the guy I’m dancing with is awake and lead my own way through a move or two. One day I managed to accidentally slap, elbow and scratched a friend in one move…ooops. No broken nose luckily and I still have that friend (^_^)
Do you have any words of wisdom for the salsa dancers out there?
Enjoy yourself, smile it does brighten up someone’s day and know that with each step you are getting better! Let the music guide you and let your body be an expression of happiness you feel!
You are never too old to learn, never too young to teach someone something and always on time with a great attitude!
What else would you like students to know about you?
I’m a woman with an attitude and lots of energy, all I can say is let the party begin!