Fitness 6th February 2024 by Stellar Magazine

My Movement: How Afrodance Inspires And Motivates Me

"We are performers, movers and vibe creators"

Lapree Lala @southsidemoves tells us all about her love of Afrodance and how her community helps her stay motivated. 

As the founder, tell us about SouthSide Moves

SouthSide Moves is a dance brand that provides African inspired dance classes in Dublin and Galway. We are performers, movers and vibe creators. We started our classes with the hopes of building up the Afrodance community in Ireland. We’ve connected over a thousand students over the last seven years from different nationalities.

Were you always into fitness?

I most definitely was. I have always loved moving from a young age, from sports in primary school and high school to dance.

How did you first find Afrodance?

I can’t say there was ever a point in time where I found it, as it’s something I’ve always done growing up. A memory that stands out to me though, was when my mom used to host themed parties and they would encourage all the kids to dance in a circle, I remember feeling so supported when everyone was cheering me on while I was dancing.

What do you love most about dancing?

I love the feeling I get during the dancing and I suppose the element of thinking about nothing else in life except the dance.

Do you think there are any misconceptions about dancing as fitness?

I think it has always been considered a form of fitness, from seeing shows of women dancing in their fitness gear to the Zumba era and now of course through social media, it is thankfully widely seen as fitness.

How do you stay motivated?

I think my dance community keeps me motivated. Every week I am inspired to do better than I did last week, the dance world is always moving, there are many events happening that make you excited and motivated to keep pushing.

What is your advice for people looking to get into dance?

I would say always have a plan, being in dance full time has pushed me to be more organised, and positive. In this line of work, you’re constantly meeting new people that inspire you somehow.

I would say remember your why and that will help you stay true to your purpose through dance. Create your own niche and work hard in order to see the fruits of your labour, nothing good comes easy and I believe that it’s not easy to give up when you’re passionate and hardworking towards your craft.

Why is movement important to you?

I think I am happier when I move, and I always say ‘do what moves you’. Happiness is a choice and by dancing I am choosing what makes me happy, and it’s my mental is in check too.