Inclusion, diversity and Zumba

Every Friday morning, the Logan Central Community Centre comes alive with the infectious energy of the Active and Healthy program’s Zumba Gold class.

The dancers – aged between 18 and 89 – glide across the floor, pivoting and clapping as they follow the instructors on stage.

A Logan City Council initiative, what started as an event for older adults has evolved into much more. It’s about friendship, connection and celebrating diversity.

The group, composed of mostly women, dance, jive, and have the time of their lives each session run by Miriam Mace’s team, Mimfit.

‘You can be 80 or have 2 left feet – we band together despite age or ability for fun fitness sessions to great music,’ Miriam says.

A reflection of Logan’s rich multiculturalism, the diverse group makes everybody feel welcome and embraces the many different approaches and skill levels.

There are also participants with special needs, such as Gumdale’s Joel Ventnor who requires a wheelchair.

His carer, Heidi Warren, spins him around as he deftly copies the instructors’ chopping hand motions.

As soon as the class ends, a fellow dancer sprints from across the hall to wrap him up in a hug. Meanwhile, the hall buzzes as other participants catch up and swig from their water bottles.

‘I’ve made lots of new friends,’ Joel says.

‘I love Zumba so much – there are so many types of music and it’s so fun.’

His favourite song to dance to is Handclap by Fitz and the Tantrums.

Visit the Logan City Council website for the latest Active and Healthy program events.

By June Ho