Meet the team

Spokane Kizomba Family is powered by volunteers who care deeply about dance, culture, and community. Here’s who’s behind the scenes making things happen—and dancing right alongside you.

Lauren Bowen

President

Lauren has been part of the social dance scene since 2011, beginning with Salsa and Bachata before finding her true home in Kizomba. With more than a decade of experience as a marketing and communications consultant, she brings a strategic lens and a deep understanding of community-building to Spokane Kizomba Family. At SKF, she helps cast vision for the group, mentors new dancers, and works hard to create a space where people feel seen, welcomed, and excited to grow.

What brings her the most joy is building a community where people don’t just dance together but truly show up for one another as family. As a dancer, Semba has a special place in her heart for its freedom and sincerity. It’s where she feels most in her element—and where her gift for fanning the spark in others really shines.

Natalie Weinmeister

Treasurer

Natalie keeps SKF’s events running like a well-oiled (but very fun) machine. With seven years of event-planning experience, she’s the one scouting venues, locking in vendors, negotiating deals, and making sure budgets and timelines actually make sense. As treasurer, she keeps SKF’s finances and operations just as organized as its events. 

When she’s not behind the scenes, Natalie is on the dance floor, soaking up every slow, squishy, and gooey moment, always chasing that perfect blend of musicality and connection. She’s been dancing Kizomba since 2022 and is leveling up her leading skills while getting comfy with all the Kizomba flavors—Kizomba, Semba, Tarraxinha, Tarraxo, and Urban Kiz.

Chris Wade

Secretary

Chris is a creative problem-solver and all-around team player who jumps in wherever he’s needed. From setting up events to helping shape ideas behind the scenes, he brings flexibility, heart, and a good dose of humor to the mix. As Secretary, he supports communication and decision-making for the board—but you’ll just as often find him dreaming up new projects or busy welcoming someone onto the dance floor for the first time.