Emily Hayes

Emily is so excited to be joining the Araguacu instructor team. Since joining Araguacu as a student and dancer in August 2023, Emily has learned so much and is thrilled to be stepping into this role, carrying with her all the knowledge that has been shared with her by her teachers and mentors. 

Emily’s dance background consists of living room and kitchen dance parties with family and friends, singing along to music of all genres. Her love for dance was enhanced when she joined Flow Dance Club at Queen’s University, where she took part in the Afro-Soca class that was offered. Emily was inspired by the club’s mission to bring out the joy of dance and community through organizing dance showcases that featured talent from across all genres, while their main style was hip hop.

Outside of this, she experimented with various styles through drop in classes in Toronto, mostly focusing on playfulness and fun through Afro-fusion, dancehall, and heels classes. Of course, she can’t forget the influence that Zumba had on bringing out the joyful, carefree, fun that connected her world of fitness to dance. 

Through Emily’s studies at school, she was exposed to the rich and complex history of music from Latin American countries and cultures, specially Afro-Cuban music and dance which serves as the foundation of Salsa today. With this understanding she has continued to be inspired by Salsa for the ways in which it serves as a bridge to connect people, both on and off the dance floor. The captivating stories that are shared through the music and the movement that it inspires is what draws Emily in closer, to deepen her knowledge.

In the summer of 2022, Emily began her Salsa journey here in Toronto with City Dance Corps and has had the privilege to learn from instructors across many dance schools in the city. The social dance floor quickly became another teacher to her and she’s so grateful to the vibrant community that exists here. Being a part of Araguacu has further enriched her experience by providing her with a community of inspiring individuals who focus on growth, love, and joy through connections we strengthen with ourselves and each other. 

As a dancer, Emily wishes to express with her body what her words cannot and hope to bring about the joy, connection, culture, and community that this dance and music inspires. As an instructor, she hopes to cultivate an environment where students feel supported and encouraged to express themselves.

Emily’s love for the music will focus on deriving meaning, emotion, and intention which will be used to inform body movement and connection. Above all, she plans to bring out the fun, flavour, and fire in every class.

She can’t wait to see you on the dance floor!