Getting involved with Queer Salsa 💞

There are many ways to be part of Queer Salsa, and being a Guardian Dancer is one of them. Whether in a structured course or at a social dance, Guardian Dancers help bridge the gap between learning and social dancing by offering support, encouragement, and a friendly presence on the dance floor.

All Guardian Dancers must read through our values and code of conduct.

Guardian Dancers in a Course Environment

During a course or class, Guardian Dancers actively participate by dancing with students to help create a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Your role is to engage with students, offer encouragement, and help them feel at ease in a learning environment.

What You’ll Be Doing:

  • Join in the class and dance with students to support their learning.

  • Offer a welcoming and friendly presence to help students feel comfortable.

  • Ask students if they would like tips or feedback, but always respect their choice if they prefer to focus on the lesson. Remind students that they can ask for support at any time.

  • Keep feedback light and encouraging, avoid overwhelming students with too much information at once.

  • If you're unsure about something, ask the teacher for clarification. You are not expected to be an expert. Your role is to be friendly and supportive.

Guardian Dancers at Socials & Parties

At social events, your role is to help newcomers transition from class to freestyle social dancing. Many beginners find this shift intimidating, and having a friendly, experienced dancer invite them to dance can make a huge difference.

What You’ll Be Doing:

  • Dancing with beginners and newcomers to help them feel at ease.

  • Making newcomers feel welcome in the community.

  • Offering support on moves and techniques, but only if asked!

General Tips for All Guardian Dancers

Skills Needed:

  • Comfortable dancing Lead and/or Follower at a level or two above complete beginners. You should be comfortable dancing with a variety of partners in at least one role.

  • Regularly dances Afro-Latin styles socially, but no formal teaching experience is required.

Wearing Your Badge

  • Wear a "Guardian Dancer" badge so people can recognise you.

  • You are not expected to be "on duty" all night, take breaks whenever you need. Try to be available for at least half the event so people know who to approach.

  • If you need to step back, just take off your badge.

  • Avoid excessive alcohol or substances while wearing the badge.

Engaging with Newcomers

  • Actively approach beginners and people you don’t know, invite them to dance! A simple greeting or invitation can make a big difference.

  • Approach all dancers with kindness and without judgement. If they seem hesitant, reassure them that social dancing is about fun, not perfection. If they say no, respect it.

  • Always ask before offering advice and respect personal boundaries.

  • After a dance, help keep them engaged and introduce them to another dancer.

Offering Support

  • Always ask before giving advice, not everyone wants feedback.

  • Keep tips simple and encouraging, too much information can be overwhelming.

  • Focus on what they’re doing well rather than just corrections.

  • Help them relax by encouraging musicality and connection rather than worrying about “getting it right.”

  • People dance different styles of Afro-Latin dance and will have different journeys. They may also have experiences to offer you in your learning journey. Someone might dance differently because of their background, so embrace that and make them feel comfortable.

Welfare & Safety

We are working towards incorporating a stronger welfare element into this role. For now:

  • If you notice an uncomfortable situation (e.g. aggressive dancing, unwelcome advances, or someone looking distressed), please report it to the dedicated Welfare Host or a teacher.

  • You are not expected to handle difficult situations alone—the team is here to support you.

For more on the concept of Guardian Dancers, check out this article by Queer Salsero.

What You Get in Return

  • Free entry to the class & event!

  • Specialised Welfare training in Afro-Latin Dance (TBA)

Thank you for being part of our community and helping to create an amazing dance floor ❤️‍🔥