In the world of dance, safety often takes a backseat to the fun and social atmosphere of parties. However, as conversations around safety in the dance community grow, it’s crucial to address these issues head-on. In this episode, we dive into an enlightening conversation with Lara, the founder of @be.a.safe.place, an initiative dedicated to providing prevention education, safety protocols and support around incidents in the dance scene.

Lara’s journey began from a deeply personal experience. As a victim of violence and abuse within the dance community, she realized that she was not alone in her struggles. "When I shared my story, I found many others who had similar experiences, but there was a prevailing sense of shame that prevented people from speaking up," Laura explains. This realization became the catalyst for the creation of Be a Safe Place, aimed at fostering open conversations and providing support to victims.

Lara emphasizes the importance of trainings for event organizers and staff. "We provide training that reminds them of their legal rights and duties to ensure participant safety," she shares. This training includes trauma-informed listening skills, which are essential for anyone who may be the first point of contact for victims.

Be a Safe Place is committed to creating an environment where victims can feel comfortable sharing their experiences. Lara notes, "It’s not enough to have a safety team; there must be a clear protocol for how to respond to incidents." This highlights the necessity for transparency in what safety teams can offer to victims.

One of the key challenges Lara faces is the reluctance of some organizers to implement safety measures. Many fear that addressing safety concerns could harm their reputation or business. This misalignment in perspectives underscores the critical need for education and awareness within the dance community.

Interestingly, Lara highlights that many organizers are unaware of their legal obligations concerning participant safety. "In France, event organizers have a legal duty to ensure the physical, emotional, and psychological safety of participants," she informs. This includes taking action when a risk is identified, whether it’s addressing a report of inappropriate behavior or creating an environment that fosters open communication.

The conversation with Lara sheds light on the urgent need for safety in the dance community. Key takeaways include the importance of trauma-informed training for organizers, the necessity for clear communication and protocols for safety teams, and the legal responsibilities that event organizers must acknowledge. By fostering a culture of safety and accountability, we can create a dance community where everyone feels secure and valued.

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In the heart of Seattle, a vibrant Kizomba dance community has blossomed, thanks to the dedication and passion of its members. In this episode of The Real Kiz Podcast, Annabelle interviews Laine, one of the key figures in the Seattle Kizomba scene, exploring the journey and growth of this local dance community. From its humble beginnings to its flourishing presence today, Laine shares her insights and experiences that highlight the importance of connection and support within the dance world.

As the Kizomba dance community began to take shape in Seattle, it started small and gradually grew in strength and popularity. Initially, the scene consisted of a Monday practica and a monthly social event, where members could connect and practice together. However, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, leading to a decline in participation and engagement.

Laine recounts the difficulties faced during and after the lockdown, stating, "Coming out of lockdown and trying to get Kizomba back as a thing was itty bitty." Yet, the resilience of the community shone through as they adapted to new circumstances. With outdoor practicas resuming and new instructors joining the scene, the Kizomba community began to thrive once more, evolving into a vibrant space for dancers of all levels.

One of the standout features of the Seattle Kizomba scene is its welcoming atmosphere. Laine emphasizes the importance of fostering connections among dancers, stating, "I think really deliberately being welcoming to people coming into the space" is crucial. This sense of belonging is what keeps the community alive and thriving.

Laine's role in the community has been pivotal, as she coordinated events and facilitated a successful Monday practica after the pandemic. This initiative allowed dancers to reunite and share their passion for Kizomba while also introducing new members to the community. The commitment and enthusiasm of all involved have contributed to a renewed sense of excitement and growth in the Kizomba scene.

The Seattle Kizomba community has come a long way since its inception, navigating challenges and celebrating triumphs along the journey. With passionate individuals like Laine at the forefront, the community continues to grow, fostering connections and creating a welcoming environment for all. Key takeaways from this discussion include the value of supportive networks, the importance of boundaries for all leaders and organizers and the joy of contributing to your local dance scene. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a newcomer, there is always a place for you in this thriving community.

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The dance floor is more than just a place to showcase moves; it's often a stage for blossoming romances and unexpected heartbreaks. In this episode of The Real Kiz Podcast, host Annabelle, along with relationship coach Marianne and dancer Jordan Jungle Rose, delve into the complexities of dating within the dance community. They explore why love can flourish or falter, offering valuable insights for dancers seeking meaningful connections.

Dating in the dance scene is unique, characterized by physical closeness and emotional connections. The podcast begins with the question: "Why do some people find love on the dance floor while others experience heartbreak?" Marianne suggests that successful dating starts with clarity about one’s values and relationship goals. She emphasizes the importance of knowing what you want in a partner, highlighting that dancers should consider factors such as life goals and whether long-distance relationships are acceptable.

A popular notion in the dance community is the joke about dancers being undateable. Annabelle and Marianne challenge this stereotype, discussing the importance of individual responsibility in dating. Marianne points out that it's not about being a dancer but rather about understanding oneself and what one seeks in a relationship. This perspective encourages dancers to reflect on their dating habits and attitudes.

Connection in dance goes beyond the physical. Annabelle discusses the different levels of connection—physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and sexual. Each level serves its own purpose, and it's crucial for dancers to identify what type of connection they are seeking with others on the dance floor. This understanding can prevent conflating a momentary dance connection with deeper romantic feelings.

Jordan provides insight into the social dynamics of dance events, likening them to club culture. He encourages listeners to remember that dancing is a social activity and to treat it as such. Many people may find themselves caught up in the moment of dancing, feeling a rush of emotions and validation, but Jordan reminds them that this can lead to misconceptions about the meaning of those connections. He highlights the importance of separating casual encounters from serious dating intentions.

The trio emphasizes the significance of clear communication in the dance community. Marianne notes that many dancers fear discussing their intentions, which can lead to misunderstandings. She stresses that it's essential to express desires openly—whether seeking a casual relationship or something more serious. Jordan adds that the vulnerability experienced during intimate dances can complicate these conversations, but acknowledging this vulnerability is crucial for healthy interactions.

Navigating the dance scene's romantic landscape requires self-awareness, clarity of intention, and effective communication. Dancers should take the time to understand their own goals and values while recognizing the importance of clear dialogue with potential partners. By doing so, they can foster meaningful connections and avoid the pitfalls of miscommunication and emotional confusion.

Join the conversation @the_real_kiz_podcast on IG and connect with @a_belle94, @danceofrelationship and @mr_jungle_rose and as always please comment, rate, review, like, follow and subscribe to help us get the message out to more people!!!