about From Benin to L.A
ACTA
YLÒ Connections
From Benin to L.A. is an initiative dedicated to sharing and connecting the vibrant culture of Benin and its captivating dances with the Los Angeles community.
After immersing myself in Benin for 10 months as a Fulbrighter in 2023, studying traditional dance and music, I felt the need to deepen this knowledge and bring its vibrancy to my community in Los Angeles. The opportunity came as I partnered with dancer and choreographer Orphée Georgah AHEHEHINNOU to create the first edition of this project in 2024, creating a bridge between cultures through dance and rhythm.
We hosted a series of classes with the intention to connect the roots of Dahomey with Haiti and Brazil, collaborating with two Los Angeles-based choreographers and dancers. The Benin-Haiti exchange was led by Dr. Colette Eloi, an expert in Haitian dance and culture, while the Benin-Brazil connection was facilitated by Rachel Hernandez, a specialist in Afro-Brazilian dance.
The 2025 edition of From Benin to L.A. was another exciting opportunity to cultivate this living connection with the collaboration with LA-Based artists like Kati Hernandez, an expert on Afro Cuban dance and culture, and Vive Brasil Dance Company with artistic director Vera Passos linking Benin to Brazil and the traditions of Afro Brazilian dances.
The 2025 edition expanded to the Bay area and Santa Cruz, CA hosting workshops and collaborations with artists in the area such as the Brazilian master teacher Danda Da Hora.
This project is expanding each year welcoming new places and artists to creatively and communally continue to build bridges between cultures.
Yló Connections presents Destination Benin first edition 2026
A ten days retreat based in Cotonou, Benin to foster and celebrate the rich cultural patrimony of Benin. This program is an opportunity to exchange experiences in community with dancers, musicians and experts in the culture that bring with them the richness of ancient Dahomey and its vibrant culture.
The program’s timeline is designed to coincide with the festival Vodun Days, a yearly festivity of celebration of the Vodun tradition, with manifestations of dance, ceremonies, concerts and much more.
MY ALL work?
My creative journey moves in circles, and therefore in cycles.
blog & insights
Check out my latest tips and behind-the-scenes stories.
