Flemish Community Commission: Brussels cares and moves. Brussels residents with and without disabilities dance together.
The Brussels resident is the focus of care, well-being, and health. We aim to bring care and well-being closer to the people of Brussels. And we want to encourage people to exercise, because exercising is healthy and brings people closer together.
In the inclusive dance class at Etage Tropical, sighted and visually impaired individuals dance together every week. Michèle, the instructor, teaches with Manuel, a visually impaired trainer assistant.
Also interested in moving and exercising? At Sport in Brussels, you can find inclusive and exclusive sports activities. Inclusive sports are open to everyone. Exclusive sports are for those who, for one reason or another, cannot fully participate in the regular offerings.
Curious about other initiatives to nurture talent? Get inspired by the video "Brussels cherishes talent."
Dance instructor counts 5, 6, 7, 8. Atmosphere shots of dancing pairs.
Michèle, founder of Etage Tropical, explains: “We provide dance lessons for people with disabilities, inclusively. But for us, it actually doesn’t make much of a difference, or there’s little distinction, because inclusivity is our general rule.”
Atmosphere shots of dancing pairs, a diverse group of adults, visually impaired and sighted, men and women, different skin tones.
Michèle: “What is so exceptional here in these lessons is that I, as a sighted trainer, teach with a visually impaired assistant.”
Manuel, visually impaired, dancer and instructor, shares: “For me personally, orientation is very difficult. So it needs to be meticulously rehearsed when I make a turn, how much force I need to apply myself, floor specifics. First of all, it’s the place where I can pursue my passion. Secondly, it’s a place where I can learn, not just dance. Thirdly, it’s a place where I am accepted as I am, for my qualities, and not just for my disability. And last but not least, it’s a place where I’ve built many close friendships, so it’s also become a second home for me.”
Michèle: “At Etage Tropical, everyone can come and dance; everyone is warmly welcome.”
Atmosphere shots of dancing people.