Who are you?
My name is Aziza Jaffer and I am a Bollywood choreographer and dance instructor in Bujumbura, Burundi. I teach dance to all ages: kids, teens and adults. Pre-COVID, my dance troupe, Az Dance, used to perform at events and shows. But now, we have gone online, posting dance videos and tutorials which you can watch on Youtube.
(youtube channel: https://m.youtube.com/user/Azizaj21/featured)
What does Climate Change mean for you?
Climate Change is a result of our actions toward the environment. We are polluting, wasting, burning, cutting down trees… we are neglecting and harming Mother Nature. This is her way of teaching us a lesson so that we can start amending our ways and caring for her again.
What does dance symbolize to you?
Dance is my passion. It helps me express, relax, be creative and free. I find joy in teaching something I love that can help bring out self confidence in my students. I also enjoy mentoring youth in becoming future dance teachers. Through dance, you can also convey messages while entertaining and making your audience feel and connect to their emotions without using words. Dance is a universal language that speaks to all.
Do you have any upcoming dance projects?
Az Bollywood Dance is releasing a dance video on Climate Change on June 5 which marks International Environment Day. Through this video, we hope to create awareness on the consequences our actions have on the environment. We have also raised funds for a local charity called “Ça nous concerne tous” (meaning It concerns us all) which plant trees across the country and advocates for the protection of the environment. We are using the four elements (earth, fire, air and water) to showcase some of the beautiful natural wonders that Burundi has and are working with other local Burundian artists from different dance styles (hip hop and traditional Burundian dancing). The video will be shared on the Youtube page for you to watch!
