Nemanja Vukelic
My name is Nemanja, and I teach Latin dancing, specifically in the styles of Salsa (LA Style) and Modern Bachata with the Flying Dance Community. My story is a testament to the joy and fulfillment that dance can bring into one's life, regardless of when you start or where you come from.
By day, I work as an engineer, a career that requires precision and analytical thinking. But when the evening rolls in, my world transforms through dance. I spend about 4 to 6 evenings every week immersed in the rhythms and movements of Latin dance. It’s my way of balancing the structured world of engineering with the creative and expressive realm of dance.
Interestingly, my dance background didn't start in a typical fashion. I had no formal training in dance during my youth; my love for music was the only thing guiding me. It wasn't until my mid-twenties that I took a leap of faith and joined our local dance community at the Flying Dance Community (FDComm). This decision marked the beginning of an incredible journey.
However, my dance path wasn't straightforward. I started dancing with FDComm around 8 years ago, but personal and professional challenges often interrupted my learning. I would sign up for an 8-week program, only to stop before it finished, and this pattern repeated several times. Despite these setbacks, my determination never waned, and the community was always welcoming. After a long break and a realignment of my life's priorities, I returned with a newfound commitment. The most important thing for me was that I showed up, learned to dance, and applied those lessons during the Friday Nights Salsa Fix weekly social events hosted by FDComm.
On a side note, I love country music. And now because teach dance, I am able to offer Country Line Dancing. Bringing together two passions of mine, music and dance!
My love for partner dancing is now deep-rooted. To me, dancing is my happy place. It's where I feel most alive and connected, not just to the music, but to a community that shares this passion. Through social dancing, I aim to encourage and inspire others to start their journey, hoping they too can discover the wonderful benefits of being part of this global community.
Apart from dancing, I have a penchant for competitive sports. Basketball and golf are among my favorites, providing a different kind of challenge and thrill. And, of course, there's my love for ice cream - a sweet treat that never fails to bring a smile to my face.
In essence, my journey in Latin dance is one of passion, perseverance, and joy. It's a journey that started with just a love for music and evolved into a life-enriching experience, one that I am eager to share with every student I teach. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, I welcome you to join me in this beautiful dance of life. Let’s salsa and bachata our way to happiness and community!