Meet Nina Darmeci, an extraordinary dance expert and the founder of Nina’s Choreography, a vibrant dance and Zumba fitness company based in the heart of London. With a trailblazing spirit and a plethora of accolades, Nina stands out as an award-winning choreographer with a passion for movement that knows no boundaries.

Born and raised on the tranquil shores of Mayotte, a small island nestled near Madagascar, Nina's early life was filled with the rich tapestry of diverse cultures. Embracing her Indian heritage, she grew up speaking Gujarati, Hindi, and French, along with a touch of Mahoraise and several other Indian languages. Education led her to India, where she honed her talents before embarking on an adventurous journey that took her to the vibrant cities of Hong Kong and London, where she settled with her husband and two children.

Nina's story is a fascinating tapestry of cultural exploration and fusion, a reflection of her vibrant personality. For the past two decades, dancing and choreographing have been her true calling, igniting her soul since her early days in Mayotte. With an unwavering dedication to her craft, she transformed her passion into a thriving profession during her time in India and further enriched it while living in the cosmopolitan hub of Hong Kong.

Join us as we delve deeper into the world of this extraordinary woman whose moves have the power to unite, uplift, and ignite the spirit of dance in everyone she touches.

Nina, what can you tell us about your academic background? 

Nina: I have acquired most of my life's education in India. I have attained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mumbai at Elphinston College. Unfortunately, I could not complete college and had to leave during the 2nd year of my college due to severe health problems. After that, I got married at the age of 22 and decided to invest my time in learning and working about travel and tourism. 

I got qualified and certified in the travel and tourism industry and worked for a few travel agencies in London and a major airline South African Airways, for a few years. I also a certified Hip-Hop dancer, Bharatnatyam Classical Dancing, and got certified in Zumba Basic in 2016 and Zumba Kids Jr. I am also first aid trained and DBS certified.

We would love to hear from you about who inspired you and why? 

Nina: My Idols are, without a doubt, my incredible parents. They have been the bedrock of my life, guiding me through every twist and turn with unwavering love and support. Their journey has been one of resilience, triumph, and unyielding determination – a story that has left an indelible mark on my soul.

Their journey has taught me that a resilient spirit can overcome any obstacle, even when the odds seem insurmountable. The values they instilled in me – perseverance, integrity, and optimism – have shaped the person I am today.

What inspired you to venture into choreography and Zumba?

Nina: I have been passionate about choreography ever since I was 5 years old. This was something I wanted to pursue, at least on the personal front. The more I taught myself, the more I felt this was something I would keep with me whatever career I pursued in life to that end—I qualified as a travel consultant for several years but found my joy in dancing and choreographing. I wanted to reach a mass crowd by having a niche of keeping it simple—choreographing simple moves to help build people's confidence. I believe choreographed dances are suitable for all, not just dancers, and that's where I found myself reaching the audience. 

After joining my dear friend's Zumba class to get fit myself, I thought, why not add a Zumba fitness program for my ladies too? But I wanted to be different. I wanted to create my own niche. So, after I got certified as a Zumba instructor, I was the first one to introduce a fully inspired BOLLYWOOD Zumba class in London in 2016. Thereafter I have helped many women get fit and feel confident in their own skin.

Would you like to share with us some memorable moments in 26 years of your choreography?

Nina: I have so many incredible memories to talk about. From age 12, performing on the National level in Panchgani, India, where I held 2^nd position, all danced and choreographed by me. At the age of 18, I performed on my Island, Mayotte, on the National level representing India, which was broadcasted all over Indian Ocean Island. Choreographing for the Tennis team India in Hong Kong and choreographing at the biggest Diwali in London at Trafalgar 2 years in a row, I have had the best time of my life. Having my own Zumba with Nina TV show on MATV UK  and many more proud moments, all add up to those memories that I cherish to date. 

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