Kizomba Conversations Podcast

Send us Fan Mail Iron Mams, an exceptional dancer and DJ, shares his journey in the world of Kizomba. From his early influences in Senegal and France to his transition into Kizomba, Iron Mams discusses the challenges of learning to lead in couple dancing, the importance of feedback, and his experiences in competitions.  Iron Mams  reflects on the evolution of the social dance scene, the significan...

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 da...

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...

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 Tar...

Send us Fan Mail Do you struggle with confidence on the dance floor? Whether you're new to Kizomba, afraid of making mistakes, nervous about asking someone to dance, or simply overthinking every step, this episode is for you!  In this episode of Kizomba Conversations, we're joined once again by internationally renowned Kizomba instructors Carlos Camba and Anna Mariaz to explore one of th...

Send us Fan Mail DJ Ellen shares her journey from her cultural roots in Suriname to becoming a prominent DJ in the Kizomba scene. She discusses her early influences, the accidental start of her DJ career, and her experiences navigating a male-dominated industry. DJ Ellen emphasizes the importance of building energy on the dance floor and the challenges she faces as a DJ, while also encouraging mor...

Send us Fan Mail Kizomba, Semba, Konpa Teacher and Event Organizer, Rabbil's journey into the world of dance, his passion for Kizomba, and the importance of music in dance.  Rabbil shares insights on learning Kizomba, the challenges of geographical limitations, and the significance of authenticity in the dance community. They also discuss Rabbil's event, Kizomba Treat, and how he address...

Send us Fan Mail Kizomba Conversations and DJ Guelas welcomes legendary artist, producer, songwriter and innovator Kaysha — the creator behind iconic hits like One Love, Something Going On, Diamonds (Kizomba Version), Question My Heart and many more.  Kaysha shares the untold story behind the rise of Kizomba, Zouk, Urban Kiz and global dance culture. From growing up between Congo, Paris, Brussels,...

Send us Fan Mail What does it REALLY take to go from the streets of Angola… to becoming a Kizomba World Champion, global teacher, and international artist? In this powerful episode of Kizomba Conversations, we sit down with Bonifácio Aurio, aften known as Mr Tuffas — a dancer, singer, teacher, and true ambassador of Kizomba culture — as he shares his raw, inspiring journey. From dancing Kuduro in...

Send us Fan Mail India to Angola.  Victor speaks with dynamic dance couple Elvis and Namrata from India, who share their unique journey into the world of Kizomba. They discuss their backgrounds, the challenges of introducing authentic Kizomba to a fusion-driven community, and their experiences as world champions. The couple emphasizes the importance of understanding the roots of the dance and thei...

Send us Fan Mail Kizomba’s global rise. In this episode of Kizomba Conversations, we speak with Allan Tai, a multifaceted artist from Nairobi, Kenya, who is deeply involved in the Kizomba dance scene. Allan shares his journey from Salsa to Kizomba, the evolution of the Kizomba community in Kenya, and the importance of honouring the cultural roots of Kizomba. He discusses the Nairobi Dance Project,...

Send us Fan Mail Leny O'Cassule, a passionate Kizomba dancer, teacher, and cultural ambassador shares his powerful journey into Kizomba, rooted in his Angolan heritage, the music of his upbringing, and the moments that transformed him from an observer into a dedicated dancer and teacher. We explore the importance of musicality, cultural respect, and why Kizomba is more than a dance — it’s a l...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Charley turns the mic on Victor to explore the origins of Kizomba Conversations. Victor shares how a passion for Kizomba music, dance, and culture led to the creation of a podcast dedicated to the people behind the scene — and why these conversations matter for the wider community. A short but meaningful insight into the intention, values, and purpose behind The K...

Send us Fan Mail We welcome back Sarah Amaro in this episode of #Kizomba Conversations, a seasoned Kizomba teacher with 20 years of experience performing and teaching dance.  We discuss the joys and challenges of teaching beginners, the importance of listening to music while dancing, and the mutual learning that occurs between teachers and students.  Sarah emphasizes the significance of creating a...

Send us Fan Mail Is Kizomba losing its roots — or being reborn? Veteran DJ Guelas (30 years in the game!) joins us for an eye-opening conversation about the past, present, and uncertain future of Kizomba music and dance.  Inside this episode: The hidden history of Kizomba, Zouk & Semba music How Afrobeat's is changing the musical sound of a generation Why some kizomba festivals are dying...

Send us Fan Mail From Angola to the world with Kizomba DJ and Promoter Loyd Garcia  In this vibrant episode of Kizomba Conversations, host Victor sits down with Loyd Garcia, a passionate Kizomba promoter from Angola now based in Switzerland. Loyd shares his inspiring journey from his roots in Angola to spreading the rhythm of Kizomba across Europe. Discover the cultural heartbeat of Angola, the ev...

Send us Fan Mail In this engaging conversation, Kizomba artist Klaudio Hoshai shares his musical journey from his roots in Angola to his experiences in Paris, with co-host Adel. He discusses the influences that shaped his music, the challenges he faced, and the importance of blending traditional African sounds with modern styles.  Klaudio reflects on his successful songs, including 'Pio Pio,&...

Send us Fan Mail In this engaging conversation, Kizomba artist Klaudio Hoshai shares his musical journey from his roots in Angola to his experiences in Paris, with co-host Adel. He discusses the influences that shaped his music, the challenges he faced, and the importance of blending traditional African sounds with modern styles.  Klaudio reflects on his successful songs, including 'Pio Pio,&...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Kizomba Conversations, DJ Tati shares her inspiring journey from a small city in Russia to becoming a prominent Kizomba DJ. She discusses her initial love for Bachata, her transition to Kizomba, and the unexpected push from a friend that led her to DJing.  Tatiana reflects on the emotional connection she feels while DJing, the challenges of being a female DJ in...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, host Victor sits down with Kizomba DJs Fofucho and Kindoki to explore their journeys into the world of DJing, their unique styles, and the evolution of Kizomba music. The conversation dives deep into their experiences behind the decks, how they engage with crowds, and the impact of technology on discovering new music. From unforgettable moments to the challenges o...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Kizomba Conversations, we talk with Kizomba teachers Manon and Yazza to explore the essential themes of leading and following in Kizomba. They discuss their personal journeys into Kizomba, the significance of role reversal through Yazza's Project Switch, and the importance of understanding both roles to enhance creativity and connection in dance, as well as...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Kizomba Conversations, we meet Tania Mendonca, a renowned Kizomba dancer and teacher. Tania shares her journey from Angola to Portugal and the UK, highlighting the cultural significance of Kizomba in her life. She discusses the evolution of Kizomba across different cultures, the importance of music and dance in Angolan culture, and the welcoming nature of the Ki...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Kizomba Conversations, we are joined by the dynamic dance couple Carlos and Anna, who share their journeys into the world of Kizomba. Carlos, originally from Angola, discusses his transition to Finland and his deep connection to Kizomba, while Anna shares her background and how she fell in love with the dance. The conversation explores their teaching philosophie...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Kizomba Conversations, we are joined by Nemanja Sonero, a seasoned dancer with over 24 years of experience in various dance styles. We discuss Nemanja's journey from martial arts to dance, and the importance of connection in Kizomba. Nemanja shares insights on musicality, the significance of mastering the basics, and the influence of various teachers on his...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Kizomba Conversations, we are joined by Charley, a passionate Kizomba dancer, who talks about his journey from Salsa to Kizomba, the importance of connection in dance, and the misconceptions surrounding Kizomba.  Charley shares insights on his personal growth through dance, the evolution of his  dancing style, and the significance of feedback and reflection. He...