Meet
Neguinha Sambista.
A passionate advocate for Brazilian culture, a samba teacher, performer, mentor, and trusted host between Brazil and the United States.
ABOUT SILVANA
Rooted in Brazil.
Sharing the soul of samba.
Silvana Sousa, also known as Neguinha Sambista, is a passionate advocate for Brazilian culture in the United States. Born and raised in Brazil, she remains deeply connected to her roots while sharing the richness of her heritage with communities abroad.
For over 25 years, she has been a pillar of the San Francisco Bay Area samba community, promoting Brazilian culture through her classes, performances, community engagement, and mentorship. Her work has introduced countless students to the beauty, rhythm, and soul of samba. She travels annually to Rio de Janeiro to parade with major samba schools, further deepening her cultural and artistic connection.
A LIFETIME OF TEACHING
Preserving tradition.
Making it accessible.
Silvana is dedicated to preserving the traditional roots of samba while continuously evolving her teaching style. She has a unique ability to break down movements — from foundational steps to performance-level techniques — in a way that is clear, accessible, and empowering for students of all levels.
Additionally, she is a respected faculty member at numerous samba workshops, where she focuses on translating both the technical movements and the underlying spirit of Brazilian dance.
Find your
own rhythm.
HER CLASSES WELCOME EVERYONE
01 For every level
From beginners to advanced professionals, every dancer has room to learn, grow, and feel supported.
02 Samba no pé
Traditional foundational elements, with special attention to the signature hip and shoulder movements of samba.
03 Musicality & connection
Guidance to connect movement to the specific rhythms and instruments of samba music.