As part of Afrocats’ Yoga and Dance project at Women Asylum Seekers Together (WAST) supported by The Charity Service, I recently had the fantastic opportunity to help out with the weekly Friday morning dance and fitness classes.
The sessions started off with a simple routine to get everyone warmed up and feeling the beat led by dance practitioner, Nessa, who guided everyone through a variety of dance routines, each one building up in intensity bit by bit.
With steady encouragement, the ladies pushed through each routine, working their muscles, and losing themselves in the music.
With each step, they cheered each other on as their movements radiated freedom and fun, each step more confident than the last as they expressed their joy.
Participants said:
‘Everyone join in!’
‘I love to dance!”
Once the routines were complete, Nessa then arranged participants into a dance circle, where everyone had the chance to pick a song and individually show off their moves in the centre, just like the superstars they are.
Cheers and applause filled the room as each one of them took a turn in the spotlight!
To finish each session, Nessa guided them through some final stretches to help the ladies cool down and relax.
The happy faces on each participant were a reminder of how creative movement can connect us all, turning a simple class into a vibrant and uplifting celebration of community and self-expression, and can also serve as an opportunity for socially isolated sanctuary seekers to socialise with others.
Afrocats’ cultural dance sessions are filled with energy, laughter, and the pure joy of movement, and it was an incredible experience to unite our women through music and dance.
It has been a delight being a part of the sessions, and a privilege to watch participants feel empowered in an accepting and inclusive environment.
Words and images: Esha Varghese
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