Designing and Dancing for Wellbeing

Creativity as a Path to Wellbeing

The Designing and Dancing for Wellbeing Project combines creativity with movement to support the mental and physical health of our members. By designing and sewing their own costumes and later wearing them during performances, participants express their identity while developing confidence and resilience. Our Heritage Dance Group, IberoLatinXpression, has become a safe and inclusive space where stress and trauma are managed through community building and cultural pride.

Building Confidence and Community

Through heritage dance, members improve fitness while also strengthening self-esteem and self-confidence. Teaching and learning from each other creates a sense of belonging, while transferable skills increase employability. Thanks to a grant from The National Lottery, Phase 5 of the Designing and Dancing for Wellbeing Project will continue for another 16 months, directly benefiting 20 members and indirectly more than 80 family members.

Breaking Barriers with Dance

Performances are shared with the wider public in venues such as the Glynn Vivian Gallery, Volcano Theatre Festivals and the Waterfront Museum during Dance Days. These events help to challenge negative stereotypes of Ibero-Latin communities and celebrate diversity. Past performances have welcomed between 75 and 120 people, showing the impact and reach of our cultural work.

Inclusive and Accessible Participation

The Designing and Dancing for Wellbeing Project is open to all. Transport refunds, refreshments and safeguarding are provided so that the cost-of-living crisis does not prevent participation. Two of our Directors facilitate the project, ensuring strong organisation, transparency and support. Other Directors help with promotion, coordination and community engagement.

Stronger Together

Above all, the Designing and Dancing for Wellbeing Project brings people together. It strengthens the Ibero-Latin American community while creating links with diverse local communities, multicultural hubs and the wider public in Swansea and across Wales.