Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1524031
48 B M & T ••• July/August 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com M eet R. Soncire Brown, the founder of iSpark Life, who transformed her life through Soul Line Dancing. Once confined to her couch due to bone on bone knee pain and depression, she discovered the healing power of dance and now inspires others as a passionate instructor, choreographer, and advocate for soul line dance. A Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery In 2011, R. Soncire began line dancing as a fitness routine, finding solace in music and movement. After a relocation, a medical setback and weight gain, she rediscovered line dancing in Phoenix which aided her to loose an impressive 97 pounds. After a line dance trip to Aruba In 2019 her newfound confidence inspired her to become a soul line dance instructor. As a plus size aka BBW woman who has overcome diverse challenges, she teaches with a patient, loving, and inclusive teaching style. R. Soncire has taught line dancing and chair dancing across Arizona. Personally she has traveled nationally, and internationally. And her social media presence (over 6 million views on three platforms) has made her a sought- after instructor for individuals as well as for conference and convention groups.. She has choreographed and collaborated on numerous soul line dances and currently teaches a public class in Tempe, Arizona. R. Soncire also provides private classes and has an all-male dance class. Her students perform with her in various community events, fashion shows, black-tie affairs and fundraisers. iSpark Life is also a Lupus Awareness supporter. Dancing For Those Who Can't R. Soncire's motto, "Dancing for Those Who Can't," with iSpark Life embodies solidarity, empa- thy, and inclusivity. It's a passion-driven approach to dance, not just for oneself, but also for those who may not be able to dance themselves, whether due to physical limitations, disabilities, or cir- cumstances. When we dance for those who can't, we: Honor their spirit and resilience Celebrate the freedom and expression that dance brings Create a sense of community and belonging Show that everyone can be included and represented, even if they can't physically dance It's a powerful gesture that transcends the physical act of dance, embracing the emotional and social connections that make us human. Empowering Others Dancing with love, compassion, and inclusivity, R. Soncire's passion for people is joined with her passion for dance and her daughter, Quine Brown, shares that passion and is her co- instructor. They empower others to find their rhythm through Soul Line Dancing and chair dancing. Their goal is to raise new instructors and spread the iSpark Life movement through the transformative power of dance. R. Soncire's story is a testament to the human spirit's strength. Join her on the dance floor and experience the joy of soul line dancing. Follow R. Soncire Brown on: Facebook: R. Soncire (iSpark Life Line Dance) Instagram: iSparkLife2020 YouTube: iSpark Life Line Dancers Soul Line dancing has not only taken R. Soncire from the couch to the dance floor, it opened up the opportunity to travel with a pur- pose. Soul line dancing events occur weekly throughout over 45 states and other countries. She has been to Aruba, Mexico, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and Dubai to name a few. Her journey is just beginning . FROM COUCH TO DANCE FLOOR: R. SONCIRE BROWN'S INSPIRING JOURNEY