Our philosophy emphasizes practical dancing over formal instruction, leading to more personalized style development. While traditional schools focus on choreography, we encourage creative expression and natural movement.
In 2018, LatinBootcamp emerged from founder Miquil Tjon Kon Fat’s rich background in Rotterdam’s event scene, where he had organized parties like Latin On Friday and Latin Panda at Club Nora on Coolsingel. After years of organizing events since 2009 and developing websites since 2007, he was ready to create something different.
A striking observation from early workshops was the unusually high number of male leaders participating—a rarity in the Latin dance scene, where leaders are typically scarce. This unique dynamic would shape the LatinBootcamp’s philosophy and teaching approach.
A Different Approach to Dance
LatinBootcamp began at Cafe Engels, whose first-floor layout perfectly suited weekend workshops. From the start, we distinguished ourselves from traditional dance schools with a revolutionary idea: learning the basics of salsa or bachata doesn’t require endless lessons.
Our journey led us to the Westelijk Handelsterrein, where LatinBootcamp helped establish Avenue Nine. After pausing during the COVID-19 pandemic, we made a successful return in 2023, first to Westelijk Handelsterrein and then to The Social Hub in 2024 for a year.
For 2025, we’re launching an exciting pilot program at Theater Zuidplein in Rotterdam Zuid—a move that promises to bring Latin dance to new communities and expand our impact across Rotterdam.
Our Team: The Heart of LatinBootcamp
A significant figure in shaping LatinBootcamp’s teaching methodology was Rachaila Isenia. Her extensive experience in Latin dance and her work at Sisterhoops were instrumental in developing our unique philosophy. Through her approach to teaching and community building, she established the playful foundational principles that still guide us today. Throughout these six years, various coaches have helped students master the basics of salsa and bachata—always ensuring everyone has fun.
Currently, our dedicated dance coaches—Ramsley, Maria, Dylan, and Soesjiel—continue to embody and share this philosophy with our growing community. They bring their own expertise while maintaining the core values that make LatinBootcamp unique: accessibility, authenticity, and the joy of dancing.
Also take a look at the 3 reasons we don’t use mirrors at LatinBootcamp.
Cultural Authenticity
We consciously teach traditional styles like Dominican Bachata and Cuban Salsa instead of performance-oriented LA Salsa or Bachata Sensual. This approach reflects how Latin dance authentically evolves in Colombia, Venezuela, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic—through family gatherings and social events.
Cultural authenticity forms the cornerstone of LatinBootcamp’s philosophy. Miquil and Rachaila chose to teach traditional dance styles that emerged from genuine social situations in Latin America, rather than modern fusions or show dance.
With deep respect for these dances’ origins, from Dominican rhythms to Cuban traditions, LatinBootcamp preserves and shares this cultural heritage with new dancers.
The LatinBootcamp Experience
We’re not just a dance school; we’re a dance experience. Our slogan “Have gewoon fun”—intentionally broken English—captures our international spirit, especially appealing to Rotterdam’s expats. We conduct classes in English for accessibility, though our coaches are often Dutch-speaking as well.
Looking to the Future
As we enter 2025, LatinBootcamp is expanding to Theater Zuidplein Rotterdam with plans to reach other Dutch cities like Utrecht. We take pride in attracting dancers from Alkmaar, Den Bosch, and Zwolle who choose us for their first salsa and bachata steps.
Our Approach
At LatinBootcamp, we don’t believe in endless lessons or complicated routines. Instead, we offer intensive workshops where you quickly learn the basics, so you can start social dancing right away. Our “Have gewoon fun” mentality ensures that the learning process stays relaxed and enjoyable.
We strive to create an inclusive dance community where everyone is welcome, regardless of experience or background. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have been dancing for years, at LatinBootcamp you’ll find the space to grow and develop at your own pace.
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