FINALIST AT THE TELSTRA AUSTRALIAN BUSINESS AWARDS 2013

‘We feel privileged to be working in the dance industry and our students can feel that we do this for the sheer love of it.’ Juan Ruiz, Director

What started as a hobby quickly became a passion and then a way of life for Juan Ruiz and Josie Cote. Moving to Australia from South America in 2004 and Canada in 2006 respectively, the pair quickly built a strong reputation as Latin dance instructors and performers. Growing tired of travelling to different studios, in 2011 they created a dance centre in Darlinghurst, called Tropical Soul Dance Studio. With 18 instructors, the studio teaches 11 different styles of Latin dance rhythms, from Salsa, Bachata to Cha Cha and Kizomba, across 35 classes each week for adults and children. The business organises monthly socials, various dance activities locally and nationally, creating a large community of dancers and friends. In just two years, student numbers have grown from 40 a week to more than 300. They have also trained a number of successful student teams that have competed and performed at national and international events.

www.telstrabusinessawards.com