OUSMANE SYLLA was born in Conakry, Guinea West Africa and has been dancing Contemporary African Dance since the age of 7. He began dancing with Weigué Musica de Guinée and later danced with Les INGUIDANS, A multi ethnic contemporary group in Guinea that included ethnics from surrounding countries. Dancing many dance styles Ousmane combines his knowledge of traditional and contemporary African dance that has given birth to “SAMATO DANCE”, (dance so beautiful words cannot describe, so you must see or experience for yourself). He dances Traditional Contemporary African Dance from the ethnic groups of the four regions of Guinea using their traditional contemporary music, and Traditional Contemporary African Dance from other African countries including Congo (Zaire) and Cote D’ Ivoire. In Guinea this style of dancing is used to showcase artists newly released traditional songs. It is also used for cultural dance parties; Spectacle de la Rue, (neighborhood party), Fête de Quartier (block party), kelmesse, (performance for students at the end of school year), Vin d’honneur (party after the marriage) and Baptême (performance after the baby naming ceremony).

Dora Oliveira has performed and taught Afro-Brazilian dance for over 30 years. Her career as a professional dancer began in 1976 when she joined renowned Brazilian folkloric dance troupe, Exaltao Bahia. Dora teaches a repertoire that ranges from Afro-Brazilian dance forms through jazz, ballet, and modern dance. After obtaining a professional dance degree from the prestigious Federal University of Brazil, Dora has toured the world as the principal dancer with Olodum the world famous samba bloco. She was also featured on the opening credits and Brazilian dance episode of the PBS "Dancing" series. Currently, she continues to tour as lead dancer with Ocheami and Show Brazil.

The youngest son of a renowned Master Drummer, Aikulola first learned the art of Drumming as a young boy following his father to festivals and gatherings. By the time he reached adulthood his skill level was well known throughout the region and he was named by the Araba of Ode Remo, the Alogbolesi (meaning the Chief among all Master Drummers), the ONLY person to hold such a title. As such, he is responsible for the training and performance for up and coming drummers throughout the region. Since 2005, his passion for Drumming has taken him to various countries in South America where he has taught the art of Drumming and Chanting to communities in Brazil and Venezuela. It is his belief that the ancient art of Drumming can be applied successfully to the problems of modern life for the good and enhancement of all humankind.

Omkari Emenke is a world traveler, having studied various dance forms such as salsa, merengue, bhangra, East Indian classical dance, and lately Zumba. She has travelled to Central America, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, and incorporates her influences in her dance choreographies.