Who is Raquel and what is her story?
I am a dancer, teacher, and choreographer currently living in my home country, Costa Rica. My journey from Central America to Europe reflects a deep commitment to dance, both as an art form and as a tool for personal and collective connection.
In 2020, I left my home and my loving family in Costa Rica, filled with fear and uncertainty, to pursue my lifelong dream of becoming a professional dancer. Thanks to a generous host family in Switzerland and scholarships from several Swiss foundations, I was able to complete my dance education there.
Over the past five years, I’ve dedicated myself entirely to dance. I’ve had the honor of sharing my knowledge, passion, and skills in countries like Macedonia, Slovenia, Austria, Italy, Luxembourg, Denmark, and Sweden, performing on a variety of stages.
These rich and diverse experiences across borders and stages have broadened my worldview and ignited a deep passion for dance therapy. I am now planning to pursue a Master’s degree in Dance Therapy at SRH University in Heidelberg, Germany, with the goal of guiding others on their path to mental well-being through the transformative power of movement.
My story is one of resilience, cultural connection, and a deep belief in the healing potential of dance.
Me always dancing 
After my first-ever dance show
What is Dance Therapy and Why is it important?
Dance movement therapy (DMT) is a psychotherapeutic approach that uses movement to promote emotional, social, cognitive, and physical integration. It is based on the principle that the mind and body are interconnected, and movement can be used to explore and process emotions. Research suggests DMT can be effective in treating various conditions, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and PTSD.
This is what I need backing for
I applied for several scholarships to finance my studies, but unfortunately, I did not receive a positive response for the first year. That’s why I’m now turning to you with this campaign and asking for your support to help make this dream a reality.
To begin my Master’s degree in Dance Therapy at SRH University Heidelberg, I need a total of at least €22,200. This amount covers the following costs:
€10,200 for the first year of studies, and €12,000 for a blocked account in Germany, which is a requirement for applying for my student visa. This money will cover my basic living expenses such as rent, food, mandatory health insurance, and transportation during the first year.
As a thank-you for your support, I’m offering some exciting rewards:
Private or group dance sessions online: Waacking, Hip Hop, House, Contemporary, Salsa… or another style? Let’s talk about it! No prior experience needed! A guidebook I’m writing on Waacking, full of personal insights, exercises, and stories. And for especially generous supporters: exclusive access to my long-term mentoring program and regular updates on my journey.
Every contribution, big or small, brings me a step closer to my purpose. Thank you for believing in me and the power of movement.
