Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. I am supporting LORD MAYOR OF LEEDS 2025 - 2026 COUNCILLOR DAN COHEN in raising funds for the charity (Leeds Mencap)

About My Work with SEN/Learning Disabilities:

I am an experienced dance educator with over 29 years of teaching experience in Bollywood dance, supported by a strong foundation in traditional Indian cultural and folk dance. I am also a trained Indian classical dancer, bringing depth, authenticity, and cultural richness to my teaching practice.

For over 15 years, I have worked extensively with individuals with Special Educational Needs (SEN), primarily through my work with the charity Haqooq and other community initiatives. Through this work, I have developed inclusive dance programmes that focus on building confidence, self-expression, coordination, communication, and performance skills.

My approach centres on the belief that everyone deserves access to meaningful learning opportunities that are fun, exciting, and engaging. Dance is a powerful tool for empowerment, and I use choreography and performance to help students develop both artistically and personally.

Through Haqooq, I provide free dance workshops in SEN schools across Yorkshire, ensuring accessibility for those who may not otherwise have access to arts education. In addition, through my dance school, we offer supported training and work experience opportunities for SEN students, helping them develop transferable skills, independence, and confidence in real-world settings.

I also hold Arts Award training at Explore, Discover, Bronze, and Silver levels, enabling me to support young people in achieving nationally recognised qualifications through the arts.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. I look forward to your support in this fundraiser.

Thanking you

Ms Chiragi x