United by dance, the incredible Mozambican dancers Junior and Frida, who live in South Africa, have greatly influenced the development of dance in Mozambique and throughout the world. They founded JF Dance Passion – The First Kizomba School in Durban, South Africa, and it has since become one of the key factors in the growth of kizomba in the country.

Júnior and Frida have participated in several Festivals in countries such as Portugal, Brazil, Mozambique, SA, Spain, Tanzania, Kenya, Holland, Angola and others, and have already worked with world-renowned artists. They are the creators and organizers of the KAYA International Dance Festival, the largest and sole Afro Latino Festival in Mozambique. They are regarded as one of the greatest sources of national pride by the Mozambican National Cultural Ministry and the international dance communities due to their passion for the arts, particularly dance.

Passionate about the art of energy transmission and connection provided by dance along with the main focus on Kizomba. They have been dancing together for 6 years, having gone through several festivals including past editions of Kaya. He has extensive experience in dance shows and choreographies. They are dance teachers and founders of the O Picardo Academy.

Apaixonados pela arte de transmissão de energia e conexão proporcionada pela dança a par com principal enfoque a Kizomba. Dançam juntos a 6 anos, tendo passado por vários festivais incluindo edições passadas do Kaya. Tem uma vasta experiência em shows de dança e montagem de coreografias. São professores de dança e fundadores da academia O Picardo.

Collective Professional Path / Awards

2015 Kizomba International Vice-Champions
Participation in the AFRICADANÇAR International Competition in Lisbon (Portugal). Kizomba World Champions
Participation in the Open Kizomba Festival. Tour across Europe, with training and exchange of experiences at festivals.
Launch of the Mozambique Kizomba Dance Awards project. 2021 Foundation of Bailamos fit&dance Studio.

Where there is a beat, there is Afro; fuse Latin American music, and enter DJ E-kins. Afro-Latin music, whilst not limited to it, is the genre of choice for DJ E-Kins, or as he usually likes to say, “the Afro-Latin genre chose me.” Deejaying was a natural progression as a Salsa and Kizomba dancer and instructor, and with Afro-beats being a strong musical sociocultural influence as part of his Ghanaian origins, it only made sense to give in to the urge to take on the decks and express his love for Afro-Latin culture. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa for nearly two decades, DJ E-kins has been at it almost equally as long.

When not playing at international Afro-Latin festivals, or his Dance Spirit SA school socials and private events, he is a resident deejay at the long-standing Sankayi Lounge and Club in Sandton, doing his bit to exhibit the rich, African continental-music and commercial genres the venue is synonymous with. His absolute new favorite pastime – doing live online sets collaborating with like-minded Afro-Latin enthusiasts, where he continuously gains international reach and following.

Evans and Lola, an extraordinary dance duo, bring their vibrant personalities and diverse backgrounds to the world of Kizomba, Salsa, and Bachata.

With Evans discovering Kizomba back in 2014, his dance journey encompasses a fusion of Afro dance, Hip-hop freestyle, Salsa, and Bachata. His innate musicality, creative footwork and innovative combinations bring a fresh and exciting approach to the dance floor.

Lola, on the other hand, hails from a background in Tango and modern dance. An elegant and graceful dance style, coupled with her mastery of body control and fluidity enhances the couple’s performances, captivating audiences with their seamless connection and mesmerizing chemistry.

Together, Evans and Lola offer a unique blend of their respective dance backgrounds, emphasizing the fusion of Tango elements with the fundamentals of Kizomba, while maintaining the authenticity of Kizomba.

Their workshops are renowned for emphasis on musicality, technique, style, and innovative combinations. They encourage their students to embrace their creativity and develop their own unique dance voice. Evans and Lola foster a sense of community, where dancers of all levels can feel comfortable and supported. Their dedication to their students’ growth and enjoyment is evident as they provide personalized feedback, individual attention, and a joyful atmosphere that motivates dancers to unleash their full potential. Together, they will guide you to new heights, infuse your dance with passion, and ignite your love for Kizomba.