Inclusive Dance Weekend in Ghent
21.11.25 Inspiration Afternoon Inclusion in Motion – with the powerful #danceisblind project.
With dance as a universal language towards a warm and accessible leisure culture.
Inclusion in sports and leisure is a powerful way to bring people together and create opportunities for everyone. During this first edition of the training afternoon “Inclusion in Motion,” we are happy to share our knowledge, inspire you, and provide practical tools to make leisure activities accessible to all.
The afternoon is interactive and energetic, with a focus on social accessibility.
We draw from our own sports experiences and achievements and give voice to experienced experts, so that theory and practice reinforce each other. Inclusion is thus approached in a warm, well-founded, and human-centered way.
Topics:
The training consists of thematic modules, each addressing a specific aspect of sports and movement for people with visual impairments, linking theoretical insights to practical experience.
1. Technical and ergonomic aspects
Analysis of challenges in dance and movement for blind and visually impaired individuals, focusing on biomechanics, spatial orientation, and practical adaptations to ensure safe and effective participation.
2. Socio-sportive dimension
Discussion of the social and psychosocial significance of sports, including themes such as social inclusion, participation, self-reliance, and quality of life. Illustrated with practical examples and now a hallmark of several of our programs.
3. Didactic-pedagogical core
Focus on adaptive teaching and pedagogical strategies for guiding dance for people with visual impairments. Participants learn to adjust instruction, feedback, and demonstration, promote autonomy and self-confidence, and create an inclusive learning environment. The approach is evidence-informed and combines insights from movement sciences, inclusive education, and adaptive sports didactics.
Also, the attitude of sighted participants
Sighted participants often experience initial uncertainty due to lack of experience. With proper didactic guidance, this can turn into acceptance, collaboration, and mutual learning. Clear structure, adapted instruction, and explicit rules reduce social tension, while peer learning and joint reflection foster positive and respectful interaction.
This project is also reinforced by numerous guest speakers, specialists, and experts.
Speakers
Accessibility Ghent
Accessibility Ghent will provide explanations on logistical accessibility, with particular emphasis on the organizational adjustments necessary to enable inclusive participation. This includes clear and accessible communication (signage, information in plain language and alternative formats), adequate reservation and reception procedures, and coordinated deployment of staff and volunteers familiar with the needs of diverse target groups.
Alderman Bram Van Braeckeveldt
Alderman Van Braeckeveldt, responsible for accessibility and sports, among other things, will discuss the policy and regulatory frameworks the city uses regarding inclusion. Special attention will be given to the socio-sportive field, where sports are seen as a lever for social participation and cohesion. The city’s role and responsibility in structurally embedding inclusive policy will also be highlighted, in line with national legislation and international guidelines (such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities). Finally, the alderman will answer delicate and socially relevant questions from the audience.
More speakers on G-sports will be announced later. The importance of this organizational accessibility lies in creating equal opportunities, so that events and city activities are not only physically accessible but also socially and practically open to everyone.
This session is intended for supervisors, care professionals, students, policymakers, organizations, and anyone who wants to contribute to an inclusive sports and leisure culture. Together, we work towards more space for meeting, connection, and full participation.
The full program and the list of speakers and athletes will be published online soon.
Practical information
Friday, November 21, 2025
1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Port Arthurlaan 33, 9000 Ghent
Reception and registration
Interactive workshops
Inspiring speakers
Music and demonstrations
Networking moments
Registration
Pre-registration is mandatory via:
info@danceorientation.be
0032 473 80 97 18
The participation fee is €10.
With thanks to the City of Ghent, Accessibility Service, Sports Service, Participation Policy Service, Sport Flanders, King Baudouin Foundation, and numerous partners.
22.11.2025 DanceOrientation Festival
Expected artists:
Onella VZW – African Dance A vibrant and energetic journey to the roots of African dance culture. Dynamic movements, rhythmic intensity, and a unifying group atmosphere are central.
Mike Kiff Dance – Urban Kizomba Elegance and flow in one. Urban Kizomba combines traditional Kizomba with modern, urban influences. Ideal for those who enjoy intimacy and expression on the dance floor.
Willian Guerrero – Bachata A fiery mix of passion and romance. Bachata, with its sensual turns and captivating rhythms, invites fun, connection, and intense interplay.
Michèle Martens – Cuban Salsa & Son Authentic Cuban vibes! Salsa and Son bring Caribbean warmth to the floor, with a unique balance between playful energy and musical tradition.
Caroline Clement – Chair Burlesque Stylish, powerful, and playful. Chair Burlesque is about confidence, expression, and fun, with a wink to glamour and theater.
Manoe – Twerking Explosive energy and modern attitude. Twerking is an expressive dance style radiating strength, rhythm, and self-assurance — a guaranteed boost of vibes and empowerment.
Feel the rhythm. Share the passion. Discover the power of inclusion. After three spectacular editions, DanceOrientation grows into a full-fledged dance festival weekend in the heart of Ghent, at the atmospheric Etage Tropical. Expect three days full of workshops, performances, parties, and most importantly: a unique experience where everyone is welcome – sighted or not.
For whom? For anyone who loves dance – beginner or advanced, young or old, sighted, visually impaired, or blind. Professionals, students, trainers, and curious passersby will also find their place here.
What to expect? From Cuban Salsa to Bachata and Kizomba, from sensory dance to audio-guided workshops – DanceOrientation is more than just dance. It’s an experience. During the day, you learn, discover, and connect through dance. In the evening, let yourself go on the dance floor with shows, socials, and live acts.
11:30 – Welcome
Dance Studio
12:00 - 1:00 PM African Dance
1:00 – 2:00 PM Lunch Break
2:00 – 3:00 PM Bachata with closed eyes
3:00 – 4:00 PM Bachata Dominicana
4:00 - 5:00 PM Cuban Son
5:00 – 6:00 PM Chair Burlesque
6:00 – 7:00 PM Cuban Salsa
7:00 – 8:00 PM Dinner / Social
8:00 – 9:00 PM Urban Kizomba
9:00 PM – 12:00 AM Social
Dance Room
1:00 – 2:00 PM Lunch Break
5:00 – 6:00 PM Cuban Menstyling
6:00 - 7:00 PM Social Salsa - Bachata - Kizomba
7:00 - 8:00 PM Dinner & Social
8:00 PM - 12:00 AM Social
Inclusion in Motion Open to all: including people with visual impairments, autism spectrum disorders, mental health vulnerabilities, etc. Collaboration with colleges & universities: students can also participate as part of internships or training. Dance as a sensory experience: through sound, touch, breath, and rhythm.
Admission Price Only €10 per day / per person – including workshops, lectures & performances. An unforgettable experience for the price of a lunch!
Join and be moved Let yourself be carried by the music, move together with others, and discover how dance brings people closer – regardless of background or disability.
Saturday, November 22, 2025
Ghent – Etage Tropical
Port Arthurlaan 33, 9000 Ghent
Pre-register via info@danceorientation.be
Contact: info@danceorientation.be or 0032 473 80 97 18