ABOUT US!

Ritmo Caliente Dance Company is a passionate performance group dedicated to showcasing the vibrant energy of Latin and Afro dance. Founded by Nicole Mouleo-Mbongo, a professional dancer from Poland with 16 years of experience. We specialize in various Latin dance styles, infusing each performance with creativity and precision. Our mission is to inspire movement and celebrate culture, transcending boundaries through the art of dance. Whether on stage, in the studio, or online, we deliver electrifying performances that captivate audiences. We also provide behind-the-scenes content, offering a glimpse into the artistry and dedication that drives our passion. Join us in celebrating the beauty of movement and the richness of different cultures by following Ritmo Caliente for updates on performances and workshops

Ritmo Caliente

Meet our Queens:

Helen

has always been passionate about music, art, and performing. Her love for Latin dance began in 2009 with Zumba, leading her to become an instructor for 12 years. Now, she’s back as a student, refining her dance and performance skills. By day, she’s a Program Release Analyst; in her free time, she enjoys painting, dancing, singing, traveling, and indulging in fine food and wine. Known as our sunshine, Helen brings warmth and positivity wherever she goes. Most of all, she cherishes time with family, friends, her husband, and her beloved dog, Chucky.

Leslie

Born and raised in Calgary, Leslie always loved dancing but only truly embraced it three years ago when she joined Free Spirit Dance. There, she fell in love with salsa and bachata. Now performing with a dance group for the first time, she finds the journey both exciting and empowering. Dance has pushed her beyond her comfort zone and connected her with an incredible community. Grateful for her instructors and fellow dancers, she’s eager to continue growing as a performer.

Elizabeth (Lizzie)

has been dancing and playing music for as long as she can remember. She studied dance in university before shifting to nursing, putting her passion on hold for work, marriage, and kids. It wasn’t until COVID isolation that she rediscovered her love for dance. Now, she enjoys salsa, reggaeton, jazz funk, and ballet, embracing every opportunity to perform and grow. Recently, she became our team leader, bringing her passion and energy to the group. Known as our “flexible mama,” she balances dance, family, and adventure—whether hiking, reading, baking, or making memories with her husband and kids.

Salome (Sally)

Originally from Colombia, Sally grew up dancing salsa, merengue,cumbia and champeta at family gatherings. After moving to Calgary at age 11, she explored jazz and hip hop through school and friends. Though she didn't train formally, dance remained a part of her life -especially in her kitchen! in 2023 she joined salsa and bachata classes at Free Spirit Dance, this led her to audition for Ritmo Caliente in 2024. Now living her dream, Sally brings passion, energy and a touch of Colombia to every performance - while inspiring her daughter to follow her own passions.

Meredith (Mer)

"I hadn't considered dance as a hobby until dance found me."

Meredith has always been active and passionate about physical well-being. While working at a fitness facility, a regular member encouraged her to try dance. After months of invitations, she finally attended a bachata workshop—and was hooked from day one. She jumped right into social dancing and never looked back.

Now, dance is a passion and a regular part of her life. "I’m not sure what I’d be doing without it. It’s a fantastic, welcoming community—good for your mind, body, and heart, with limitless levels of learning!"

Alexandra (Alex)

has been dabbling in various types of dance since she was 5. Everything from yelenka, to hip hop, reggaeton, contemporary, ballroom, salsa, bachata, Zumba, and social dance.

In 2021, Alex re-discovered her love for dance at Free Spirit Dance, where she was able to find a creative, physical, and social outlet. Little did she know all of the amazing connections she made there, would eventually inspire her to start social dancing again and take on her fear of performing.

Arborist by day, and dancer by night, Alex believes that dance and movement is the key to a sharp mind and a young heart.”