Meet the Team

Esther and Tony, Co-Founders of Zouk YYC, have been sharing their passion for Brazilian Zouk in Calgary since 2017. Their teaching approach ensures that students not only learn the dance but also have an enriching experience that leaves them feeling fulfilled and inspired.
Their teaching methodology prioritizes technical excellence and accessibility for dancers of all levels, creating a fun and comfortable environment that encourages body awareness and musicality.
They've conducted numerous workshops locally and across North America, including one of the best Zouk events in Canada: Canada Zouk Congress!

Esther and Tony, Co-Founders of Zouk YYC, have been sharing their passion for Brazilian Zouk in Calgary since 2017. Their teaching approach ensures that students not only learn the dance but also have an enriching experience that leaves them feeling fulfilled and inspired.
Their teaching methodology prioritizes technical excellence and accessibility for dancers of all levels, creating a fun and comfortable environment that encourages body awareness and musicality.
They've conducted numerous workshops locally and across North America, including one of the best Zouk events in Canada: Canada Zouk Congress!

Meet our Bachata director for Dance Life Calgary! Chad is constantly pushing himself to new heights both on and off the dance floor, and his dedication to continuous learning keeps him at the forefront of his field.
Chad's passion for dance is matched only by his desire to be a quintessential leader in the community. He strives to create a positive, inclusive environment where everyone can feel welcome and supported.
Don't miss the chance to witness Chad's incredible talent in action both at DLC and our partner Rhythms Dance Studio!

Talented Zouk dancer with a rich background in Latin dances and ballet.
A passion for helping students develop their skills and achieve their goals has lead Nicole to teach workshops locally and internationally.
Whether through private or group classes she looks forward to sharing her expertise and joy for dance.

Abhi is an experienced DJ and social dancer based in Calgary, Canada. Since 2017, he has traveled to many Zouk congresses, festivals and trainings to refine his craft, while having developed a deep passion for Brazilian Zouk and its community.
Abhi specializes in Brazilian Zouk and Lambada, and is recognized for his exceptional patterns, musicality, and profound partner connection.
With Abhi’s gathered experience, he is eager to share from his wealth of knowledge with his unique perspective with the dance community.
Dance Training: ZenZouk (NY based Brazilian Zouk/Lambada Teachers), BRIC (Bruno & Raiza Methodology) and is currently pursuing certifications with the MAC Program.

Dani Fontaine is a Salsa and Bachata dancer, instructor, and choreographer from Regina, SK. Her love for Latin dance started when she took her first Salsa steps in Cuzco, Peru at the age of 18. Since then, she has taught, performed, and competed all over the world. Most notably, Dani has won 2 World Championship titles at the 2018 and 2019 World Salsa Summit and has collaborated in opening Collective Studios, an all-adult dance canter, in Regina.
Known for blending different styles and bringing positive energy to the dance floor, Dani strives to help her students use their strengths to introduce their own signature style to the dance floor.

Derek is an integral part of the humble beginnings of ZoukYYC along with Esther and Tony back in 2016.
His love for this dance style is steamed from its elements of fun, connection and dynamic movement. With a background in martial arts, lover of music, he infuses a unique style to his dance.
By day he serves as a healer here at DLC, and by eve you can find him dancing, teaching and enriching the community through the joys of sharing and growing Brazilian Zouk!

Jennie's dance journey started with baton twirling in elementary school. Over the years, she continued to explore different forms of dance, and in 2019, she discovered Zouk which ignited her soul.
Dedicated to growing and supporting the Calgary Zouk community, she started teaching and DJing in 2023. Jennie is pursuing her certification in the MAC program and training in Bruno and Raiza's BRIC methodology.
As a professional occupational therapist, her understanding of the body, patience and curiosity allows her to adapt and connect with students. Her diverse experience on the dance floor has given her a unique perspective that she brings to her teaching, inspiring and guiding her students with infectious energy and dedication.