Artistic Team
Konodon
Mamady Sano
dancer, teacher, choreographer
His talent embodies the harmony between the foundations and traditions of Guinean ballet and its growth and evolution toward modernity. Mamady is currently the artistic director of his country's first private artistic company, 'Merveilles de Guinée.' From this position, he continues to actively contribute to strengthening traditional dance and music culture. He shares his expertise and sparkling energy by teaching and performing all over the world. Additionally, he founded his own festival in Iceland, called 'Barakan'.
Paloma Bravo
dancer, teacher, choreographer
Of Mexican origin, she has dedicated herself to Guinean dance for over 19 years. She is a dancer with the artistic companies 'Merveilles de Guinée' and 'Camara Percussion' in Conakry, and has performed and taught in more than 10 countries. She dances with mindfulness and love, translating, as a Latina woman, the language of Guinean dance through her identity and body, supported by a solid foundation, energy, and the knowledge gained from her time and training in Guinea. In parallel, she is committed to empowering the culture and its artists by creating a global platform called MONKILAION. Through this platform, artists, the community, and the culture can flourish via various projects such as KONODON, Farekira online training, cultural immersions, concerts, and more.
Alya Camara
dancer, teacher, choreographer
A versatile artist and lead dancer with 'Ballet du Matam' and 'Camara Percussion,' he has developed a unique style through his research into contemporary dance and modern Guinean beats, known as 'Tongoloni Fare.' This style combines Guinean ballet in a dynamic and playful way. Renowned for his incredibly energetic presence, his classes offer not only the chance to learn his impressive skills but also to enjoy his infectious joy and enthusiasm.
Babara Bangouria Fakoly
master teacher drum
Babara Bangoura Fakoly, the Djembefola, is considered the spiritual son of grandmaster Mamady Keïta. He is a member of the group Sewa Kan and the national ballet companies Djoliba and Foli Kan. He is also the organizer and host of his own international festival for cultural exchange in Guinea Conakry. Babara travels the world to pass on his culture, carrying a clear message from his teacher: 'Music knows no race or borders, and cultural exchange has no limitations.'
Jack Sylla
master teacher drum
Jack Sylla is undoubtedly one of the most brilliant djembefolas in the world. He teaches and inspires through his impressive sounds and thoughtful pedagogy, creating a path for djembe enthusiasts worldwide to discover the culture and knowledge from the foundations to perfection. He has been part of some of the most renowned companies in Guinea, such as the National Theatre of Guinea — where he performed both as a percussionist and an actor — the National Ballet Djoliba, and Gbassikolo. Additionally, he has performed alongside musical legends such as Salif Keita, Youssou N’Dour, and the Étoiles de Bouloubinet.
Alhassane Camara
master teacher drum
Sana Camara is a master drummer and teacher from Conakry, Guinea 🇬🇳, with over 30 years of experience. He possesses extensive expertise in the rhythms of Guinea, Mali, and Burkina Faso. Before leaving his country to teach and perform internationally, he was the lead soloist for one of Guinea’s national companies, 'Les Ballets Africains.' Additionally, he performed with private ensembles such as 'Soleil d’Afrique,' 'Sourakhata,' and 'Toure Kunda.' His primary influences and teachers were Yadi Camara and Mouctar Toure.
Bayo Kankan
master teacher drum
Bayo Kankan is a young Guinean percussionist who has been touring the world with his group for several years. Now based in Belgium, he continues his career there as a traditional West African percussionist. His artistic talent has led him to provide music lessons and training sessions at various locations worldwide.
Bouba Bangoura Fakoly
master teacher drum
A versatile musician who is always ready for action. With his cheerful energy, he shares his cultural heritage with the world as a teacher and performer with Sabougouma GPS. Living in Belgium, he accompanies classes across the country and performs on a regular basis throughout Western Europe.