Meet Your Mentors

Chen Lizra | Founder, Power of Somatic Intelligence

Chen Lizra is an internationally renowned expert in somatic healing, feminine embodiment, and the transformative power of dance. Her personal journey of healing began in response to childhood trauma from her mom’s mental illness, and through over two and a half decades of study, she has developed a unique approach that combines the healing felt experience with embodiment practices inspired by dance.

One of her most powerful influences came from her time spent in Cuba, where she immersed herself in the sensual dances of Salsa, Rumba, and Son. In Havana, Chen learned that dance is not just physical—it’s a way to embody elegance, express self-love, and release unhealed emotions stored within the body so you can express your whole self.

Cuban dance taught Chen the essence of feminine embodiment through intention (our drive), elegancia (our presence), tempo (our joy), sabrosura (sensuality and Divine Feminine energy), and Mystery (or attraction)—qualities that awaken our authentic self.

She has blended this embodied wisdom with her own healing experience to create her unique Somatic Intelligence method, and now combining it with her latest passion, Kizomba dancing.

Chen guides her clients to release old patterns and embrace a new relationship with their bodies and their true selves–one that is grounded in confidence, joy, and divine self-expression, so they can have the love they truly desire.

Nelson Barbosa | Dance Mentor

Born on the captivating island of São Vicente, Cabo Verde, Nelson’s love for music and dance is woven into his very soul. From a young age, his body knew what his heart longed for—movement, connection, and the irresistible pull of rhythm. He would chase the music, running off on his mom who would call him to return, and later on in life sneaking out at night to lose himself in the rhythms, only to emerge with a deeper understanding of how it moves us, not just physically but emotionally.

Nelson grew up with a lot of love and affection (carinho) from his parents which gives him the ability to love with his whole heart and soul - a Divine Connection.

Nelson’s approach to dance goes beyond steps and sequences. For him, each dance is a sacred journey—a sensual, intimate experience where the connection between partners becomes the dance itself. With every sway and turn, Nelson creates a safe space where you are invited to surrender, let go of control, and feel deeply. His attention is unwavering, his energy grounded, and his touch respectful yet filled with warmth and sensuality. He dances from the heart, and when you step off the dance floor after being led by him, you’ll feel transformed—radiant, joyful, and fully seen.

Nelson's presence in this event is your invitation to a beautiful journey of joy, deeply feeling, and connection.

Inês Miranda | Dance Mentor

Inês Miranda is a prominent international dance artist recognized for her passion and talent in Kizomba, Semba, and Tarraxinha. She is a master of emotion in motion, intuition, playing with and expressing musicality, sensuality, and energy through every step.

Since starting her journey under the guidance of her mother, Sónia Duarte, Inês has become an influential teacher, emphasizing the importance of mastering the fundamentals of dance to establish a deep connection with the music, her own body and movements, and with a dance partner. Dance is her language, and when she moves she invites you to surrender to the spontaneity of the moment, allowing your body to express freely and authentically.

From a young age, Inês was immersed in the world of dance, and she discovered its power as a means of expression and connection. This art form has served as a catalyst for personal healing, helping her navigate challenges and life. Dance has not only provided an outlet for her emotions but has also played a crucial role in her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Using personal stories and drawing from her years of experience, she empowers others to reconnect with their bodies' innate wisdom.

Her passion and dedication have made her a recognized force in dance, captivating audiences both in workshops and through her viral social media presence. With each movement, Inês teaches not only technique but also how to connect deeply, unlocking a sensual freedom that transcends the dance floor and expanding our capacity for growth and transformation.

Ben Pedrosa & Ana Guerreiro | Dance Mentors

Born in Angola and raised in the sun-drenched south of Portugal, Ben Pedrosa’s journey into the world of dance spans over 20 years of passion, artistry, and devotion. A pioneer in the Kizomba culture, Ben’s accomplishments include being crowned ballroom dancing champion in Portugal from 1999-2001, and countless other awards.

His path led him to contemporary ballet, performing with a regional company between 2001-2003, and later to salsa, where he trained at EDSAE Lisbon. In 2006, he founded his own dance school, Via Latina, and has since taught thousands of students, leaving a lasting mark on the world of movement. Globally recognized and admired, Ben’s love story took center stage when he united with Ana Guerreiro in 2015, forming a duo that has captured the hearts of over 4 million followers.

Born in the coastal beauty of Faro, Portugal, Ana’s life has always been graced by movement and rhythm. From a young age, she excelled in acrobatic gymnastics and diving, taking home multiple podium finishes. Yet, her true passion—dancing and singing—was ignited when she met Ben Pedrosa in 2015, a union that would catapult her into international stardom. Her presence is a source of inspiration for all who witness her art and the gentle, yet powerful, way she communicates with the world through dance.

Together, through the language of Kizomba, Ana and Ben have enchanted the world. Their magical connection, combined with an extraordinary teaching style, continues to inspire hundreds of thousands worldwide, and this year, Ben and Ana are joining us at the Divine Connection Experience exclusively to bring the magic they have created not just as dancers but as real-life partners.