Who we are
We host Cuban salsa dance classes and events in and around London.
Janier Pereira
Janier started his artistic career when he was 9 years old.
He attended the "Escuela Vocacional de Arte" in Cuba,
specialising in contemporary and Cuban Folkloric dance.
During his studies, he joined the Maraguán Dance Company and
he performed in various shows around Cuba, winning many competitions.
At the age of 17, Janier was offered a place in the Professional Company Camagua obtaining
the Level 3 diploma in Folkloric Cuban dance. After two years of very hard work, he
was awarded the Level 1 Diploma in Folkloric Cuban dance, which is the highest level.
He has been rewarded for his exceptional performances and skills which made him
travel around the world with the company.
Between 2016 and 2018, Janier represented Cuba in various international dance
festivals in Spain, France, Belgium, Solvenia, Chile, Italy, and many others.
He also dedicated his life to teaching dance and he qualified as a dance teacher in Cuba.
Janier recently obtained the salsation instructor certificate.
Janier moved to England in 2020 and founded the Somos Caribe Academy where he mainly teaches salsa and
bachata.
Luisa Pereira
At the age of 5, Luisa began her dance journey in her hometown in Italy. Initially, she learned modern dance, but later discovered her true love for Ballet. Under the guidance of renowned teachers, she honed her skills and performed on various stages in Italy and Croatia.
Luisa eventually became a qualified ballet teacher, which remains her primary passion. She taught and choreographed in multiple schools until she moved to England, where she obtained a qualified teacher status.
Luisa's introduction to Cuban salsa and Latin entertainment happened through her husband Janier. Together, they founded the Somos Caribe Academy in the UK, where they primarily teach Cuban Salsa. Luisa is currently expanding her knowledge and skills by studying with Addy Mendoza while working on various projects for her academy.
In 2021, Janier and Luisa Pereira established their Cuban salsa course in Epsom. From its humble beginnings, their classes gained rapid popularity, attracting a passionate community of salsa enthusiasts. Janier and Luisa not only helped people develop their dancing skills, but also instilled confidence in their students. Their dedication and success were recognised when they were awarded the prestigious Epsom and Ewell business award for best young entrepreneurs in 2021.
To further spread their love for salsa, Janier and Luisa organised numerous vibrant parties at popular venues in Epsom, including Faradays, Lava Lounge, and Epsom Social. These events created an incredible atmosphere, bringing together people who shared the same passion for salsa. Currently, Janier and Luisa host a highly anticipated monthly event at the Langley Vale Village Hall. Taking place every third Saturday of the month, this gathering feature live Latin music and entertainment. Their parties are renowned for their popularity, and their classes continue to draw a significant attendance in both the Epsom and Surbiton areas.