Vania Costa is a famous digital influencer from Salvador Bahia Brazil with millions of subscribers and followers on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram Facebook and Kwai. She is a professional dancer, choreographer, actress, and now she is going to begin a career as a singer as well. She began working as a digital influencer in 2022 after her job as a dance teacher was stopped due to the pandemic. It is interesting to note that she’s always wanted to be recognized for her artistic talent. Despite attempting to achieve her dream several times through conventional or traditional means, it never happened. It was only when she lost her job as a dance teacher that she finally saw her dream become a reality. With Vania Costa’s charisma, smiles, and cheerful dance, she is certainly ready to conquer the world.
The dancer speaks exclusively to Sunday Oyinloye, Publisher, Green Savannah Diplomatic Cable
Excerpts:
What was your growing up like?
I grew up in a family of three siblings, with a sister and a brother. Our dear mother passed away when I was just six years old, but I hold on to fond memories of her styling my hair, taking me to dance classes, and school. She would have undoubtedly been my biggest supporter and an unconditional fan of my professional choice. Sadly, six years ago, we lost our father at the age of 63. He was a simple, hard-working, fair, and protective man. Despite the hardships and challenges of being a single father, my brothers and I never lacked anything, especially love. Although he didn’t witness my accomplishments, I believe that both our parents are watching over us from somewhere, guiding and protecting us.
Would you like to share your experience as a Dance Teacher?
I possess a rich dance background that encompasses a wide array of rhythms and styles including forró, samba, gafieira, salsa, and tap dance. Following my extensive training, I transitioned into the role of a dance professor. However, it was during my time residing in São Paulo, a distinct state within Brazil, that I truly witnessed the profound impact and resilience of dance and art in the lives of individuals. There was a project where I collaborated with individuals with disabilities, utilizing art as a powerful tool for fostering inclusivity. Through this initiative, I crafted works that not only served as a point of reference but also left an enduring impression on the families of the students, for which I am deeply appreciative and remembered to this day.
How did you feel when you lost your job as a Dance Teacher?
I must admit that I found myself in a state of uncertainty, grappling with the unfamiliar territory of uncertainty. As a dance teacher of a dance and music school, I observed a disheartening exodus of students as the repercussions of the pandemic unfolded. Witnessing the gradual departure of each student until the school stood empty was a disheartening experience. Faced with this challenging situation, I made the decision to return to Bahia, my birthplace, and in a bid to adapt to the evolving landscape of the digital age, I embarked on a new endeavor, leveraging the power of social media as a platform for artistic expression. Through the creation and dissemination of videos that encapsulated the essence of my craft, I endeavored to forge connections with a global audience, transcending geographical boundaries to share the beauty of dance and music with a diverse array of individuals.
You have millions of subscribers and followers on You Tube, Tik Tok, Instagram, Facebook and Kwai, how do people receive you when you walk on the street?
With immense fondness, I must confess that initially, I found myself rather reticent. The surprise of being readily identified by passersby, a good number of whom displayed genuine elation upon encountering me in the flesh, left me feeling somewhat bashful. However, as time has progressed, I have grown exceedingly elated by this experience. It has become a delightful habit of mine to warmly embrace each and every individual who approaches me with such warmth and admiration on the streets.
Share your experience as an Actress?
The art of theater holds a special place in my heart, alongside my deep love for dancing. It brings me immense joy to blend these two passions in my videos. Over the years, I have had the privilege of being involved with various theater companies and groups, where I honed my skills as an actress. My dedication and hard work were recognized through awards received at theater festivals in Brazil. Additionally, I have had the pleasure of playwriting and directing, creating both adult and children’s productions. Sharing my knowledge and expertise, I have also had the opportunity to teach artistic preparation classes tailored for children, fostering their creativity and love for the arts.
Why are you beginning another career in music, do you think you will make impact globally?
I’ve always liked singing and I’m passionate about music. I believe that my work will be more complete if I sing and dance to my songs too. At the moment, I’m preparing, studying singing. About whether it will have a global impact? (Laughs), well, nothing is impossible. But I know that there is mainly the language barrier among other factors. However, if I reach the Brazilian public, it would have been wonderful.
Do you have plans of visiting Africa?
Oh, absolutely. Africa has my heart, I tell you. I had the incredible opportunity of visiting Cape Town, and let me tell you, it was an absolute blast. The colorful streets, the warm people, and the delicious food – I was in paradise. Now, I’ve got this burning desire to hop on a plane and explore more of what this beautiful continent has to offer, with its rich culture, beyond as its dance and music. I know that many Africans follow me and like my work and I’m immensely happy about that. And I hope be able to record a lot of videos there. I’ve already seen a lot of Nigerian films too.
There are many in Brazil who are of Yoruba (Nigerian) roots, are you close to some of them?
I proudly hail from Bahia, a state in Brazil known for its rich Afro-Brazilian culture, and specifically from Salvador, the city with the largest Black population outside of Africa. It is a place where the vibrant rhythms of the African diaspora echo through the streets, where the legacy of the Yoruba people is deeply ingrained in the fabric of society. While many families in Salvador can trace their roots back to the Yoruba people, my own family’s lineage remains a mystery to me. However, the oral history passed down from my maternal grandfather suggests that our ancestry may be linked to Angola, a country with a profound impact on the Afro-Brazilian identity. The stories of our ancestors, their struggles, triumphs, and resilience, are woven into the tapestry of my heritage, shaping my identity and instilling in me a profound sense of pride in my Afro-Brazilian roots.
What is that special thing that the world does not know about you?
Well, let me tell you, I’m just a laid-back, cheerful soul who’s all about spreading love and making sure everyone gets a fair shake in life. Who wouldn’t want to see more smiles and good vibes all around? Happiness and equality; that’s the name of the game,
