Student Spotlight:

Armin Mahini

Salsa Student

Armin joined Movers and Shakers to meet new people and learn a fun skill after moving to Los Angeles. Salsa classes pushed him out of his comfort zone, especially during exercises like practicing shines in front of the class, but these moments taught him to embrace vulnerability and growth.

As he connected with classmates, Armin discovered a supportive community, practicing at local socials and building friendships outside of class. Salsa has boosted his confidence, helping him approach dance partners and take on new challenges. His advice for newcomers? "Leave judgment at the door, practice like no one's watching, and keep investing in yourself—it’s worth it week after week."

Armin shares his dance journey through the following interview questions.

1) What inspired you to take salsa lessons here in Los Angeles?

Having moved to the area fairly recently, I thought the program would be a great way to meet new people and learn a new, fun skill - like dancing!

2) What moment at a Movers and Shakers salsa class made you feel out of your comfort zone? How did you handle it, and what did you learn from that experience?

When we started doing exercises where all of the students would line up across from each other and practice our "shines" in front of each other in order to inspire each other!

3) What’s a favorite memory bonding with your classmates outside of salsa class? What made it special?

As I started to grow closer to some of my classmates, we started to practice at local socials and even hung out together on a more casual level outside of class. Being new to the area, I didn't imagine clicking with so many wonderful people (especially outside of class) so quickly :)

4) In what ways has dancing salsa improved your life in general?

Although I still have much to learn when it come to salsa, I certainly feel much more confident in my ability to apply what I've learned (and am continuing to learn) via the MaS program. I feel more confident in my ability to approach people to dance, and overall it's been a great experience challenging myself to learn a new skill - especially as an adult.

5) What advice would you offer to someone considering taking salsa lessons?

Leave judgement at the door, practice like no one's watching, and continue to invest in yourself - it will all pay off week after week :)