OUR STORY
Introducing BallroomBees, a fun and friendly new way for kids to connect through dance, music and play.
The brainchild of former BBC 'Strictly Come Dancing' professional Katya Virshilas, BallroomBees combines unique insight into the entertainment world with Katya’s own experience as a mother of two. The result is an exciting new programme that unites children in a love of dance. BallroomBees is a one-of-a-kind programme designed to nurture a child’s all-round development – all through the joy of dance.
Katya has seen for herself the incredible influence that dancing can have on young children, and has developed the BallroomBees programme especially to help introduce children to the wonderful world of Ballroom Dancing, all the while nurturing a wide variety of transferrable life skills.
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Suitable for both boys and girls aged from walking to 8 years old, BallroomBees classes focus on developing children’s social skills and etiquette, building their confidence and fostering a deep sense of respect for their classmates, all while getting active with friends!
While many kids’ classes in Hong Kong focus on the teaching of just one discipline, BallroomBees takes a more accessible and multi-dimensional approach, using the prism of dance and music to encourage children’s growth in a fun and creative environment.​
BallroomBees students can expect to reap a range of physical and mental benefits, including improved motor skills, balance and coordination, flexibility and agility, strength and fitness, and musicality and rhythm.
The social aspect of ballroom dance also offers the perfect framework for children to learn about partnership, etiquette, and teamwork – bringing boys and girls together, building self-confidence and mutual respect, whilst forging lasting friendships along the way.
LEADERSHIP TEAM
KATYA VIRSHILAS
FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
After becoming Canada’s youngest National Champion at age 16, Katya joined the BBC's hit show, Strictly Come Dancing as a professional dancer. She then showcased her talent as a choreographer on So You Think You Can Dance.
Katya collaborated with Antonio Banderas, Richard Gere, and Jennifer Lopez, both as a dancer and choreographer for Hollywood films such as Take The Lead and Shall We Dance.
A veteran of ballroom dancing competitions and TV shows, Virshilas has found her calling: to break down gender stereotypes with her BallroomBees dance concept initiative that makes dance more accessible and inclusive for kids in Hong Kong and beyond.
SHIRY SAAR
CEO
A seasoned executive, Shiry has vast experience managing sales & service teams, as well as channel distributers in the APAC region. She is proficient in developing and executing Go-To-Market strategies, business and marketing plans.
Having served in various roles at the 3D printing leader Stratasys from 2011 onwards, Shiry was the Director of Customer Success, APAC for the past 5 years before joining BallroomBees.
Shiry holds LL.B. (Bachelor of Laws) Degree and a MBA Degree from Tel Aviv University
KLAUS KONGSDAL
CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT
Klaus, a former World Champion with over 40 years of dance experience, currently teaches some of the world’s top performing ballroom dance competitors. He also adjudicates in the most prestigious competitions and events in the Ballroom and Latin world.
Klaus leads BallroomBees’ educational direction, syllabus, and curriculum. He also plays an integral part in the company’s business development strategy.
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