We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Diana Hoffman. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Diana below.
Diana , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?
Expect the unexpected and planned to be surprised. That has been my life’s journey as a Latin Dance Instructor for over twenty years. My dance journey began at the age of three. I was lucky enough to have an instructor who taught the importance of connection, musicality, posture and practice this is my motto today. However, it was when I was a fashion design student on a co-op in Miami, Florida that I found salsa dancing.
My friends and I were at a salsa bar one night and I didn’t even know it. I remember walking up to the dance floor away from my friends. I was mezmerized by the connection of the dancers, the electrifying music and most of all – the happiness it brought so many people of all backgrounds. It was at that moment I knew I had to be a part of it.
As soon as I came back to Cincinnati to graduate I went to a salsa bar and found the magic in my own city. Within one week, I was not only dancing but teaching every night. It has been a golden ticket- a way to express myself, connect others, stay fit and travel the world sharing the joy of Latin music.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
I started my dance career with fun ballet and tap classes at the age of three but found my true passion in connecting people to culture and dance through Latin Dancing. For over twenty five years, I have taught all age levels and am known for making dancing fun and easy to understand by breaking it down so it’s meaningful and respectful to the rhythm of the music.
Because of this mission, my journey has taken me into various class forms from private and group lessons, workshops, date night lessons, wedding dances and retirement lessons. I’m also known for teaching at Salsa on the Square in Cincinnati every year from May – September for over 15 years.
People can find me teaching at several events around the region but also on social media and word of mouth. Salsa dancing is about spreading the word. I’ve become a tradition that never stops and keeps getting better every beat of the way.
I can be found at kamasalsa.com or Kamasalsa Latin Dancing on Facebook.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
I’ve had several key moments in my journey where resilience had to take the lead. When my dance partners moved on to another city, I had to constantly learn how to lead, how to teach it and become ambidextrious. That is what pushed me through and lots and lots of practice.
Also, during Covid lockdown, I had to stop teaching group classes and found a new way to connect through more private lessons and date night sessions. I found this to be an exciting new strategy that allowed everyone to dance no matter their level and share a night out with their partner in a fun environment. Plus, it’s romantic and shows a way of learning something new together.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
During Covid lockdown, I had to stop teaching group classes and found a new way to connect through more private lessons and date night sessions. This way everyone felt safe in a controlled setting. I found this to be an exciting new strategy that allowed everyone to dance no matter their level and share a night out with their partner in a fun environment. Plus, it’s romantic and shows a way of learning something new together.
Contact Info:
- Website: kamsalsa.com
- Instagram: dhoffman5678
- Facebook: KamaSalsa Latin Dancing
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-hoffman-9740511/
- Youtube: dhoffman5678@gmail.com
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=XcNRz0CwtcJi5CkwJbRu6Q
Image Credits
Diana Hoffman, KamaSalsa Latin Dancing