Meet the Team
Aimee Salmon
CEO and Founder of Africana Dance & Fitness, LLC and The Africana Store Group Exercise and Personal Trainer
Meet Aimee
I am thrilled to introduce myself as the founder of Positively Africana, LLC, a thriving business that promotes cultural awareness and physical and mental well-being. My unwavering passion for entrepreneurship, retail sales, health and wellness, and community-building has led me to curate a diverse range of wellness, educational, and cultural programs that enrich lives and foster supportive relationships.
My journey began at Mount Holyoke College, where I graduated in Psychology and Education with a minor in Entrepreneurship, Organizations & Society. Being a student-entrepreneur simultaneously allowed me to gain valuable experiences beyond the classroom setting.
With my sights set on the future, I plan to further my education by pursuing an MBA in Program Management and expanding my business. In addition, I aim to make Positively Africana a household name in the wellness and beauty industry and revolutionize how people think about exercise, beauty, and fashion. So join me on this incredible journey toward a healthier and happier lifestyle! With my sights set on the future, I plan to further my education by pursuing an MBA in Program Management and expanding my business. In addition, I aim to make Positively Africana a household name in the wellness and beauty industry and revolutionize how people think about exercise, beauty, and fashion. So join me on this incredible journey toward a healthier and happier lifestyle!
Mantra
Take the First Step. Be Bold. Be Brave. Love Yourself. Be YOU. We Are Stronger Together!
Training Philosophy
I believe that everyone can improve their health, wellness, and fitness. Even small steps lead to lasting, positive changes.
Focus Areas & Specializations
Group Exercise Instructor, Group Trainer, Personal Trainer, and the Africana Store.
Hind Elkalai
Zumba Instructor and Dance Addict
Meet Hind
In 2018, I made the decision that changed my life forever. I was ready to not only participate in a class but to lead it, so I got my license as a Zumba® Instructor. Zumba became part of my everyday life. I got addicted to exercise – in a good way: not to lose weight but to feel happier, I needed the increase of endorphins and serotonins in my body (key ingredients to boost your morale, happiness and well-being). Zumba made me accept who I am, confident and ready to conquer the world! Come get it with me!!!
Mantra
Love Yourself. Love your body. Together We Are Empowered.
Training Philosophy
I believe fitness is for everyone and that anyone can do it. There are no beginner or advanced levels in my classes. Just enjoy our fitness community and keep on moving. The power of togetherness in very powerful nowadays and we are here to Support you!
Personal Achievements
Certified Zumba Instructor
Cindy Soriano
Early Childhood Educator
Meet Cindy
Hello, my name is Cynthia Soriano. I’m a passionate and experienced Early Childhood Educator. I am also a caregiver with 20 years of service in Northampton Public Schools, Hampshire Regional YMCA, and Community Action and Development programs. In addition to planning and implementing many curricula. I do hands-on teaching which includes leading group programs while responding to individual children’s needs. Working with children brings joy to my workdays!
More about me: I’m Puertorican, fluent in English and Spanish. I am also a mother of a beautiful daughter. Some of the things that I enjoy most are hiking, swimming, dancing, reading, and being around friends and family. I am committed to diversity and inclusion.
SuSu Min Aung
Zumba Instructor
Meet SuSu
Hello, everyone! My name is SuSu, and I am beyond excited to be joining the incredible team at Positively Africana as a Zumba instructor. This amazing community has been a significant part of my fitness journey, and it is an honor to now have the opportunity to give back and inspire others through Zumba.
Having been a client at Positively Africana, I can personally attest to the positive impact this place has on individuals. The supportive atmosphere, the diverse range of classes, and the infectious energy of the instructors have truly transformed my life. It is here that I discovered my love for Zumba and experienced the incredible physical and mental benefits it offers. Zumba has not only been a fantastic way for me to stay active, but it has also become my ultimate stress relief. The exhilarating music, the contagious enthusiasm, and the liberating dance moves have the power to transport me to a place of pure joy and self-expression. It is this profound connection to Zumba that motivated me to take on the challenge of becoming an instructor.
Now, as a certified Zumba instructor, I am thrilled to be able to share my passion for this incredible fitness program with all of you. I cannot wait to guide you through energetic and fun-filled Zumba classes at Positively Africana, where we can laugh, sweat, and dance together. It is my goal to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable and empowered to let loose and embrace their inner dancer.
So, whether you are a seasoned Zumba enthusiast or a beginner looking to try something new, I invite you to join me at Positively Africana. Together, we will embark on an exciting fitness journey where we will not only improve our physical health but also strengthen our minds and spirits.
I am truly grateful for this opportunity, and I cannot wait to meet each and every one of you. Let’s make some unforgettable memories and achieve our fitness goals together at Positively Africana! See you on the dance floor, ready to sweat and have a blast!