Many Ukrainian belly dancers are currently facing all sort of struggles. War did hurt everyone: physically, psychologically, financially. Here is what you can do to support.

Many Ukrainian belly dancers are currently facing all sort of struggles. ⁣Some dancers lost everything (destroyed apartments, studios, belongings ), some were robbed… Many teachers had to close their studios and stop in-person classes. Online sessions aren’t possible in many cities neither due to constant air sirens when people have to go to bomb shelters. All festivals and competitions are obviously canceled. Many people left their homes as refugees searching for a safer places.⁣⁣

Additionally, all dancers are dealing with a big deal of emotional load while facing the war. I can tell from my own experience that often these days you can’t even think about dancing, not to say advertising your classes.⁣⁣

So here are some simple ways you can currently support Ukrainian dancers:⁣⁣

enroll in their pre-recorded courses, or other available programs⁣⁣,
check if they teach any group classes, and if not, inquire about private online classes⁣⁣,
order personalized choreographies,
find a mentor for your long-term goals (for instance, Ukrainian dancers would be amazing specialists to provide mentorship for competition preparations),
ask if they offer any designs. Some dancers still can’t do any teaching activities, but they have various available designs: from custom-made costumes to cute training wear or dance jewelry. Ukrainian post office is still working,
simply subscribe to their Insta account and follow their activities. Emotional support is as much important as financial,
participate in the fundraising dance events: this way you are not only supporting the cause of the event, but also give hope and love to all dancers involved in them,
share reviews and impressions about your experience studying from Ukrainian teacher, so that more people discover about them
if you are an event organizer, involve Ukrainian dancers who were forced to leave their homeland, and currently are seeking safer place in your country
if you are a professional teacher, offer your free class to Dance With Stars project. It was created a few months ago in order to support Ukrainian belly dancers, many of whom lost the opportunity to attend any classes. They can participate in this event for free. Non-Ukrainian dancers can join for a small $15 donation fee. All collected money will be forwarded to fundraising organizations. Also, remember that the majority of belly dance students in Ukraine are children. Yes, I know it's very unusual and uncommon, but that's the situation. This project is a great phycological support for them since their lifestyle has been greatly affected by the war. In order to offer your class for the project, please contact one of the organizers Nataliya.

Also, I have gathered info about many Ukrainian dancers HERE. This is far NOT everyone, but it’s a good place to start with. I constantly update the page with even more teachers’ profiles, as well as various donation links.

Keep dancing. Keep sharing love. And keep staying with Ukraine. Wishing peace to everyone!

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Author: Iana Komarnytska
Photographer: Pedro Bonatto