Meet Valeriya Gogunskaya, a longboard dancer and the founder of a renowned longboarding camp in Portugal. At her camp, Valeriya brings together some of the best longboard dancers as instructors, alongside enthusiasts eager to improve their skills. Having participated in this camp last summer, I had an amazing time and am thrilled to share Valeriya’s story with you. In our conversation, Valeriya will discuss how she began her journey with longboarding, the essential skills of top longboard dancers, and how to create from your true impulse. She’ll also share a few tips on living your dream. Let’s dive in!
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Valeriya Gogunskaya is not your average athlete. As a longboard dancer and the founder of a popular longboarding camp in Portugal, she has inspired countless individuals with her graceful moves and vibrant spirit. Valeriya’s journey into the world of longboard dancing began unexpectedly, during a moment of serendipity on the Russian social network VK. She stumbled upon a video of Korean rider Duy Yon performing mesmerizing steps and maneuvers on a longboard. This revelation sparked a love affair with the sport that would change her life.
Already familiar with longboarding, Valeriya was instantly captivated by the fusion of dance and sport. Her passion quickly grew as she delved into learning tricks and honing her skills. Driven by ambition, she aspired to succeed not only as an athlete but as a creator and community leader. Her journey led her to organize events and establish a camp that has become a haven for longboard enthusiasts seeking to improve their skills.
Valeriya’s experience in longboarding has been marked by different phases, from the initial excitement of discovering a new passion to the desire to excel as an athlete. However, over time, she found herself embracing a more community-oriented approach, focusing on fostering connections and sharing the joy of longboarding with others. Through her camp, she has brought together some of the best longboard dancers in the world, creating an environment where learning and creativity thrive.
Valeriya attributes her success not only to her innate talent but also to the consistency and dedication she has maintained throughout her journey. She believes that while certain skills may come naturally, it is the consistent effort and practice that set individuals apart. Her approach to longboarding reflects a broader philosophy on life: finding joy in the process and embracing the flow without excessive ambition or pressure.
In addition to her expertise in longboarding, Valeriya emphasizes the importance of courage and authenticity. She encourages others to let go of the fear of judgment and fully express themselves, both on and off the board. This philosophy extends to her life as a whole, as she continually seeks to create from a place of true impulse, driven by passion rather than mere willpower.
Valeriya’s story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and creating a path that aligns with one’s values and desires. Through her longboarding camp and various retreats, she continues to inspire individuals to pursue their dreams, find balance, and embrace the beauty of life’s journey.
As Valeriya contemplates her next steps, she envisions creating experiences that prioritize well-being and self-care, allowing individuals to take a breath and connect with themselves on a deeper level. Her commitment to slowing down and embracing the present moment serves as a reminder that life’s true essence lies in the joy of living authentically and passionately.
Valeriya Gogunskaya’s journey is a beautiful example of how following your heart can lead to unexpected and fulfilling destinations. Her story encourages others to embrace their uniqueness, find their rhythm, and dance through life with grace and joy.
