I wanted to share something about my own salsa journey. As a neurodiverse person, I find it very difficult to learn and retain patterns. My mind simply does not absorb sequences in the way many classes expect. So I focus more on technique, connection and learning how to respond in the moment, especially when my brain and feet appear to have joined different dance schools! I am a confident dancer, but I know that confidence and competence are not the same thing. I still have plenty to learn, and I am comfortable admitting that. I would love to find workshops or boot camps designed for people who learn more slowly, need greater repetition, or benefit from a different teaching style. BackYard Salsa Academy is a safe community where we can speak honestly about our journeys, support one another and learn without judgement. We do not all learn in the same way or at the same speed. That diversity should have a place on the dance floor too.

What started as a new chapter has become a home away from home: teaching salsa at the incredible SalsAlianza, sharing floors with dancers who inspire me every class, and watching this journey grow in ways I couldn't have imagined. Grateful doesn't even begin to cover it. Here's to the dance, the city, and everyone who's been part of this ride. More chapters coming. #2YearsInParis #SalsAlianza #SalsaTeacher #ParisLife #SalsaCommunity