Since I was a child, I loved dancing and singing. My father was a teacher, and I remember that during the year-end graduation ceremonies at the school where he worked, I would sing in front of a large audience at just five years old. To me, all forms of expression represent art, and dance is one of them.

In 2010, during a trip to Chile, my home country, I reconnected with my friend Rodrigo Díaz, whom I’ve known since I was six years old and who certifies Zumba instructors across Latin America. He invited me to a certification in Argentina in 2012. From that moment on, I started working as an instructor, even teaching classes in Sweden when Zumba was still unknown there.

Later, in North Carolina, I began working as an instructor at the YMCA in 2010 and was able to get certified in all its specialties: Aqua, Gold, Toning, Strong, and Kids. Additionally, I obtained my AFAA certification, which allows me to teach other fitness modalities.

The biggest challenge has undoubtedly been organizing these large-scale events, where many different personalities must find common ground and work together in a world that is often filled with competition and individualism. The goal is to unite, respect, and accept each other and to become one strong heart in support of a greater cause. However, this can be challenging when people have different personal agendas. Our motto is: No one is better than anyone else; everyone can shine. Sometimes, this clashes with more self-centered personalities.

My greatest satisfaction happens every year when we bring together people from different races, ages, and physical conditions. I introduced Ciclodanza from Chile, a movement program for people in wheelchairs and their caregivers, and we have incorporated it into ZCamp. Being able to include all types of people has undoubtedly been my greatest joy.

ZCamp was born out of the need to share, connect, and find common ground. Life is already stressful and full of challenges, but dancing is therapeutic. The magic that happens when you’re in a space where language barriers and racial differences disappear, where we are all one united heart dancing together, is simply beautiful.

ZCamp has brought people together and raised awareness about important social issues by supporting and promoting organizations and their missions. So far, we have collaborated with more than 10 organizations, helping them gain visibility and raise funds.

I hope that the values of unity and inclusion remain strong, prioritizing collaboration over competition. We want to continue fostering a drama-free environment where people focus on connection rather than differences. Our world needs more love, more dancing, and more unity, and I hope ZCamp continues to spread this positive energy for many years to come.