Episode #13 : In Conversation with Kizomba Event Organiser Katty

TAKEAWAYS

• Katty has been dancing Kizomba for 13-14 years.

• She transitioned from Salsa to Kizomba after discovering it at a party.

• Katty faced challenges as a woman in the Kizomba organising scene.

• Community support was crucial for her success in organising events.

• The Back to Basics festival was born from a desire to promote proper Kizomba.

• Katty emphasises the importance of creating a joyful atmosphere at her events.

• She believes that Kizomba events are vital for keeping the dance alive.

• Katty's events focus on high emotional intensity in music.

• The Kizomba scene in France has a rich history and strong community.

• Katty continues to adapt her events to meet the evolving Kizomba landscape. Kizomba and Salsa both hold a special place in the heart of dancers.

• Collaborations with DJs and teachers are essential for successful events.

• Balancing event management with personal passion can be challenging.

• Experiencing Kizomba in Angola offers a unique and profound connection to the dance.

• Memorable moments often occur during social dancing rather than formal parties.

• The connection to Kizomba evolves as one takes on the role of an organiser.

• Kizomba is about freedom, emotion, and community.

• Celebrating milestones in the dance community fosters connection and joy.

• Passion should drive event organisation, not financial gain.

• Creating lasting memories is the ultimate goal of any dance event.

SOUND BITES

• "I needed to learn more about it."

• "I have to discover and to dance everywhere."

• "I was searching for a proper Kizomba party."

• "I just wanted to create something."

• "It's like there is an alchemy with my soul."

• "I am back to basics every day."

• "Feel free to express yourself. Be crazy."

• "Salsa is still our first love."

• "I want to enjoy it."

• "Kizomba makes me feel free."

• "Do it with passion, not for money."

• "I hope you create great memories."

• "I expect them to come just to celebrate."

• "We are living an art."

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Katty and Kizomba
02:54 Katty's Journey into Kizomba
05:51 Transition from Dancer to Organizer
09:02 The Birth of Back to Basics Festival
11:58 Challenges Faced in Event Organization
18:06 The Importance of Community and Support
20:47 Behind the Scenes of Event Planning
26:57 Creating Atmosphere at Back to Basics
29:45 The Significance of Kizomba Events
33:11 The Unique Vibe of Back to Basics
36:05 Kizomba Scene in France vs. Other Countries
38:16 The Soul of Salsa and Kizomba
39:45 Collaborations in the Dance Community
45:01 Balancing Passion and Event Management
47:32 Experiencing Kizomba in Angola
49:31 Memorable Moments at Back to Basics
51:37 Evolving Connection to Kizomba
53:30 The Essence of Kizomba
56:31 Celebrating 10 Years of Back to Basics
01:01:12 Advice for Aspiring Event Organisers
01:03:10 Creating Lasting Memories at Events