Danijela Zimonjic is featured in this edition of Dance Spotlight! Danijela lives in Frisco, Texas and is relatively new to the Latin dance scene. She was nominated by Elisa Cano. Elisa said, “She has been dancing for a year with our dance academy and her improvement has been so amazing!” Check out some fun facts about Danijela, including her inspiring reason to try dance and her favorite dance video!
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Where are you from?
I am from Belgrade, Serbia.
What (or who) originally inspired you to try Latin dancing?
Basically, my whole life I have wanted to learn how to dance and I just love Latin culture. I grew up in Serbia during the hyperinflation, and my parents couldn’t afford dancing or acting classes (yes, I wanted to be an actress). Also, at age 14 I had spine surgery, and I thought I was never going to be able to dance or do things that I love. However, in 2020 I decided to make some changes in my life. My friend Alejandra introduced me to bachata and the Dallas Can Dance dance studio. I decided to give it (Latin dance) a try. Since day one I’ve been loyal to Elisa and Sebastian (my dance teachers) and they are my inspiration.
Do you have a favorite dance moment or goal you’d like to achieve through dance?
Yes, I do have my fav dance moment. It was at one of Elisa’s “Latin Addiction” socials before the pandemic. My best friend Brian and I decided to be dance partners because of our great connection and passion for dancing. My dance goal is that I would love to become a performer.
Dance pet peeve(s)?
My dance peeve is definitely when there is no connection.
Favorite style of Latin dancing?
My favorite Latin dance style is bachata, for sure. I love the music, and I love how I can express myself while dancing bachata. Bachata is just so elegant, sensual and sometimes dramatic depending on the song (laughs). I’ve just found myself really liking bachata.
What do you like most about being a member of the Latin dance community?
My favorite thing about being a member of the Latin dance community is meeting new, interesting people and being able to dance whenever I feel like dancing. You can find socials in Dallas almost every day!
What are your favorite current songs to dance to?
This is hard question! (laughs). I have lots of bachata songs that I love! “Paris” by Pinto Picasso and “Bachata” a Lo Loco by Dustin Richie are two of my current favorites.
Favorite dance video you’d like to share?