''An Ode To The Teacher'': Soof

Last week, Soof — founder of Amsterdam Ravers Academy — was interviewed by one of her students, Floor, for the monthly The Happy Squad challenge. Every month, The Happy Squad highlights a new theme, and this month’s edition focused on “An Ode to the Teacher.”

The interview and photoshoot took place early in the morning, but the energy was already high from the very beginning. Filled with laughter, connection, creativity, and inspiring conversations, the experience perfectly reflected what dance, community, and teaching are all about.

At Amsterdam Ravers Academy, teaching goes far beyond simply learning choreography or dance technique. Over the past seven years, Soof has built a dance community in Amsterdam where self-expression, confidence, creativity, and connection are at the center of every class.

What once started as a personal passion for Shuffle Dance and rave culture has grown into a movement that welcomes dancers of all ages and experience levels.

From Shuffle Dance classes and Cutting Shapes workshops to freestyle sessions and community events, Amsterdam Ravers Academy has become a place where people come together through movement and music. Students between the ages of 5 and 70 join the classes to improve their dance skills, connect with others, and step outside of their comfort zones.

For Soof, teaching has always been about more than dance alone. It is about helping people reconnect with their bodies, discover confidence, and feel safe enough to fully express themselves. Creating an open and supportive dance environment has always been one of the most important values within Amsterdam Ravers Academy.

During the interview, Floor beautifully described Soof’s journey as both a dancer and teacher:

“What once started as a passion for a dance style she discovered in 2015 grew into a community where connection is at the heart of everything.”

Over the years, teaching dance classes in Amsterdam has taught Soof many valuable lessons: patience, flexibility, listening, and understanding that growth looks different for everyone. But perhaps the most important lesson is that learning always goes both ways. Teachers inspire students, but students inspire teachers just as much.

The connection between Floor and Soof during the interview was a beautiful reflection of the strong sense of community within Amsterdam Ravers Academy. The warmth, positivity, and creativity shared throughout the photoshoot made it an incredibly special experience to be part of.

A huge thank you to Floor for the beautiful words, thoughtful interview, and all the good energy she brings into the world. People like her continue to make the dance community in Amsterdam stronger, more open, and more connected every single day.

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