The Co-Founders of ZE Montréal

MAC Certification of the Co-Founders

Josiane and Sébastien are the first officially certified MAC instructors in Montreal. The Alex de Carvalho Methodology (MAC) breaks down Brazilian Zouk movements into key elements to support better understanding and integration into the dance. This certification reflects their deep commitment and expertise in teaching Brazilian Zouk.

But what does that mean?  MAC stands for Methodology Alex de Carvalho, a methodology that he developed over the course of his 27 years of experience.  So basically, being MAC-certified means that they have studied and have a good understanding of Alex de Carvalho’s methodology, which deconstructs Brazilian zouk movements into key elements to better understand them and be able to better integrate them in their dance.  It also gives them a common language to explain key elements of the dance. And more than the theory behind the movements, the training comes with a better understanding of various aspects of the dance itself, from the physical, to the emotional and ethical aspects, giving them a better understanding of the different dynamics coming into play!

It also means that they studied 15+ hours per module (5 modules in total) with top international artists, plus practice time to make sure they understood the key elements of both roles (lead and follow).  And then, they had to successfully pass both a practical and a theoretical exam to confirm their understanding of the MAC.

That being said, they admit that the journey itself of going through the modules, philosophizing (which Sébastien loves to do!), discussing and practicing the various concepts together and with others was totally worth it! And this is just the beginning!  They still have so much more to uncover, experience and learn! They also thank all of their students that have been accompanying them through that journey!

  • Co-founder

    Dancing has always been an important part of Josiane’s life. Indeed, Josiane started dancing around 5 years old, and her curiosity brought her to explore different dance styles through the years (from classical ballet to ballet jazz, hip hop, ballroom, salsa and baladi). She also quickly discovered the joys of teaching and dancing on stage with the younger dancers at her school.

    The long working hours of her first years on the labor market after university forced her to stop completely dancing for a few years… but it’s also at work that she renewed her interest for this art and was able to join a dance troupe with business/professional women (thank you dear Muses!).

    And since life has a way of giving you what you need when you need it, Josiane discovered Brazilian zouk in December 2017 during a class with her dance troupe. And she instantly fell in love with it! Since then, Josiane continues to seize every opportunity she has to learn, practice, dance and share this wonderful dance! Beyond the pleasure of dancing itself, Brazilian zouk teaches her a lot about herself, allowing her to thrive!

  • Co-founder

    Sportive by nature, Sébastien has always managed to hide his interest in arts. It’s only when he arrived in Montreal in 2012, after his graduate studies, while he was leisurely walking on Ste-Catherine street, that his innate curiosity pushed him to enter the world of dance. And not any dance: Brazilian zouk! This is proof that there is no age to start dancing!

    It’s this same curiosity that pushed him to seize every opportunity to perfect his dance and outpass his own limits. He quickly discovered an interest for a more urban style (R&B) which you’ll likely recognize fairly quickly on the dance floor!

    In 2015, the scientific pedagogue in him couldn’t resist teaching again. Sébastien quickly became known for his clear and precise explanations and his rigorous and detailed observation skills. His passion for teaching is still very alive! This is why Sébastien happily accepts the challenges ahead to deepen his learning and share his knowledge amongst the community!

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