Latin America:
For one Monday afternoon, laughter and Latin rhythms filled the North Gym. Over 150 students attended, most of whom left with a new understanding of Zumba. The dance was hosted by the Cultural Awareness Club with
the goal of promoting appreciation of culture through music and dance. Sign-ups consisted of individual students as well as groups that came directly from Spanish class. This event, open to all students, promoted cultural awareness through various dance styles. Club advisor Lisbeth Correa described the atmosphere in the gym as very welcoming.
“He [instructor] made the students feel comfortable right from the beginning,” Correa said. According to her, the instructor, Martin Ricardo, created a collaborative environment for the students with his experience and knowledge.
Ricardo is a licensed Zumba Instructor who offers services to not only schools, but virtual Zumba classes through online sign up. He and Correa shared the stage in front of the students, easing into the choreography.
“We felt that it was important as dance and music transcends skin color or background. Dance and music is a universal language in itself,” Cultural Awareness Club president Angie Huang said.
The dance lesson only lasted around 30 minutes, but combined several popular Latin music styles such as salsa, merengue, and reggaeton in a way that made the fitness aspect undercover. All three of which are social dances meant to bring people together. Zumba, a mix of dance and aerobic exercise, was inspired by these music genres.
Leading the dance with a slow pace, the students felt confident to make mistakes and learn. The atmosphere was laid back, contributing to the overall mood that brought kids into learning more about connecting culture and dance.
“I can’t wait to show off my new skills,” freshman Alperen Demir said. Demir attended the session with his Spanish class.
This event brought many students together from all different backgrounds and ages. The diversity in the gym demonstrated how culture is an important way to unite people. The session simulated the connection of cultures while doubling as an exercise in the form of rhythmic movements. The participants not only gained new abilities, but also a new understanding of blending movement and sound.
Correa expects a similar session for a future event, especially because of the significant turnout. The dance was a perfect wrap-up to Spanish heritage month, teaching kids that dance, music, culture, and fitness can work together in harmony.
India:
The Leo Club’s recent classical Indian dance performance not only represented culture, but highlighted a successful fundraiser with many volunteer opportunities. Leo members acted as ushers for the show, welcoming guests and collecting event money.
“I want others to feel inspired to use their own passions, whether artistic, academic, or cultural, and identity as a way to serve, connect, and lead within our community,” Shreyal Bhagwat, Leo club president said.
Bhagwat finds power in the celebration of authentic culture and had hoped for the show to further enhance the diversity of East Lyme.
Lots of work went into the preparation of the event. From booking the auditorium, contacting the play director and gathering all the artists. Bhagwat is to thank for the coordination of this event.
“I was so proud of Leo President [2025- 2026] Shreyal Bhagwat who created, coordinated, and participated in this 2025 successful India Classical Music and Dance fundraiser,” Leo Club advisor James Harris said.
Harris believed the event promoted many of Leo clubs main goals; the club motto of “Leadership, experience, and opportunity.” Leadership reflected in its proficient planning and execution. Providing members the space to learn new skills and practice inclusivity was one way the club created meaningful experiences. The event developed a diverse group of active student volunteers that made way for many social opportunities.
Exposed culture to both members and show attendees demonstrated the importance of these cultural events; unity, and the sharing of knowledge between people.
The show raised over 1000 dollars toward care and share and was undoubtedly a successful community service fundraiser.
