About Us - World Bachata Meet Up

About World Bachata Meet Up

We are a dedicated team of bachata enthusiasts committed to creating a passionate dance community across Europe. Founded by Grzegorz and Karolina Winiarek, our mission is to provide a platform where dancers can showcase their talents, connect with others, and grow in their art. Our events offer something for everyone, from thrilling competitions to engaging workshops and unforgettable social dances.

Our core values of integrity, community, and excellence guide every aspect of our work. We believe in the power of dance to unite people, create lasting connections, and inspire individuals to achieve their best. Whether you are a seasoned competitor or new to the dance floor, we welcome you to join us and experience the joy of bachata.

The Journey So Far

The Bachata Dance Competition began its journey in 2017 in Warsaw with the first edition of the Social Competition. Grzegorz and Karolina Winiarek, known in the dance community as Gregory and Karolina, founded the competition with a vision of creating a unique and engaging experience for dancers. The competition's consistent rules and distinctive format quickly gained popularity, making it the most popular bachata dance competition in Poland.

In 2019, we aimed to expand internationally, but the pandemic delayed these plans. However, in 2022, we successfully launched competitions in various countries, marking a significant milestone in our history. The world finals, held in Warsaw, bring together the best dancers from regional competitions across Europe and beyond, making it a highlight in the bachata dance calendar.

Our history is marked by growth and resilience, driven by our passion for bachata and our commitment to excellence. As we continue to expand, we remain dedicated to providing high-quality, fair, and inclusive events that celebrate the beauty and diversity of bachata dance.

Meet The Team

Karolina Winiarek

Karolina, a graduate of the State Higher School of Theatre in Krakow, began dancing at age 4 at the Krakow Ballet School. She trained in various dance styles and performed nationally and internationally. Since 2005, she has been a choreographer and dance instructor. She started salsa and bachata in 2005, valuing versatility and individualism in dance. With her partner Grzegorz, she won multiple BachataStars titles, including Austria and Sweden, and qualified for World BachataStars.

Grzegorz Winiarek

Grzegorz began dancing in 2000 with the ZPiT of Warsaw University of Technology, learning folk and ballet. He discovered salsa in 2003 and won the "Salsa in the Dark" contest in 2005. As a pioneer of bachata sensual in Warsaw, he improves his skills at various festivals. Also a DJ, he plays at events like Bachaturo. With Karolina, he won multiple BachataStars titles and consistently qualified for World BachataStars.

Paulina Skiba

Paulina began her dance journey at age 5, excelling in jazz, contemporary dance, ballet, and disco. She won the WADF Western European Championship in 2016 and the World Championship in 2015. In 2018, she discovered Bachata while working at Salsa Clasica Dance School. Now, she organizes festivals and dances as a hobby. Paulina also teaches jazz dance and supports her hometown dance school.

Anna Bogdańska

Ania's passion for Bachata started at La Playa beach bar in Warsaw. She began her dance journey at Salsa Clasica in 2017 and now helps organize their festivals. Ania values good connection and fun on the dance floor, making her a true social dancer. She has been actively involved in the Bachata community for several seasons, contributing to its vibrant culture.