“I envision a community where dancers are not only skilled performers but also knowledgeable advocates for the cultural heritage.” Sheyla
Mission of Al Raqs conference
Our mission is to create a comprehensive, enriching, and inclusive online platform where dancers, teachers, and enthusiasts of MENAHT (Middle Eastern, North African, Hellenic, and Turkish) dances can gain access to invaluable knowledge and experience.
Our mission is to address often overlooked topics in traditional dance classes, foster cultural appreciation, and empower the global dance community through professional guidance and shared insights.
What we envision
To be the leading online conference that transforms and elevates the understanding and practice of MENAHT dances worldwide. We envision a community where dancers are not only skilled performers but also knowledgeable advocates for the cultural heritage, resilient professionals, and innovative educators in their fields. By 2025 and beyond, we aim to have significantly influenced the global dance community, bridging gaps in knowledge and fostering a deeper appreciation for the diverse traditions and modern evolutions of these dance forms.
Goals
Knowledge Sharing and Education
– Provide attendees with access to over 30 expert speakers, including dancers, researchers, musicians, and industry professionals.
– Ensure that each participant leaves with a comprehensive understanding of the major subjects covered: history and research, culture and heritage, growth and resilience, teaching and training, and professionalism in dance.
Cultural Preservation and Appreciation
– Highlight the rich cultural contexts and heritage of MENAHT dances, ensuring that cultural narratives and traditions are honored.
– Promote the importance of cultural sensitivity and appreciation in dance practice.
Professional Development
– Offer practical guidance on building and maintaining a successful dance career, including self-promotion, event organization, and community building.
– Empower dance teachers with innovative methods and strategies to enhance their teaching practices.
Community Building and Support
– Foster a supportive and interactive community where dancers can share experiences, challenges, and successes.
– Provide ongoing access to conference content for 60 days post-event to allow for continuous learning and engagement.
Personal Growth and Resilience
– Address topics related to mental health, neurodivergency, and work-life balance in the dance community.
– Inspire attendees with stories of resilience and personal growth from renowned speakers.
Promotion of Professionalism
– Discuss the multifaceted nature of professionalism in dance, from performance to business management.
– Encourage dancers to embrace their unique paths and develop a strong professional identity.
By achieving these goals, Al Raqs 2025 aims to not only enhance the skills and knowledge of its attendees but also to contribute to the global dance community’s ongoing dialogue and development.
Sheyla’s accomplishments in Raqs Sharqi:
Extensive dance experience: Trained and studied belly dance since 2004 in Egypt with renowned instructors.
Award winner: Won awards for solo and group dance performances, and judged competitions internationally.
Documentary filmmaking: Produced a documentary “Funoon Shaabeya” about Egyptian folklore: traditional music and dances.
Live conference: Successfully organized live belly dance conferences for 8 years, creating engaging experiences for dancers of all levels.
Egyptian Folklore research: Traveled to Egypt numerous times to study Egyptian folklore with local artists, troups and family celebrations.
Teaching and knowledge sharing: Teaches various belly dance styles, choreography, and theory. Organizes workshops, conferences, and online lectures for dancers of all levels.
Community building: Founded an Egyptian folk dance group and the international dance festival “Tales of Sahara.” Founded Al Raqs conference to connect and empower belly dancers around the world.
Lifelong learning: Continues to learn and evolve as a dancer and instructor
