Fiona’s teaching philosophy: I believe everyone can dance and that dance and costuming should be available to anyone who has the call to learn! I aim to provide a rich, cultural experience for women that is fun and increases their fitness and wellbeing, beginners through to professional. My mission is to inspire and empower mind, body and spirit through traditional dance.

 

Fiona started learning belly dance, along with her mother, at the age of 12 and was dancing professionally by 14.  Taught by Egyptian born professional musician, Farouk Darwish, the dancing helped with her confidence as a young person, launching a modelling career both in front of the camera and on the catwalk.  Fiona was winner of the Miss 1980 and contestant in many pageants, including the Miss Asia/New Zealand and Miss Universe/New Zealand in 1981. She trained as a fitness leader by completing the ACHPER training course in Sydney in 1992. Fiona began learning the Egyptian Tabla in 1997 with Egypt's Ambassador of Rhythm Hossam Ramzy, having now attended many dance and drum workshops with both Hossam and Serena Ramzy on their regular visits to New Zealand. www.hossamramzy.com/

 

Regular professional shows for weddings, special events, and recently danced alongside Mara Dacak a world renowned international belly dancer.

 
 

For extra information and insight into Belly Dance, please visit http://www.medanz.org.nz/teachers.html#auckland  the website of the Middle Eastern Dance Association of New Zealand.

 

This gives professional details about Fiona, as well as background information – history, FAQs, costumes, and photo galleries.