Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Kafi B Bella brings the spirit of Carnaval into fitness, dance, and holistic living. Based in California, she blends samba, culture, and wellness to inspire people to live healthier and more balanced lives.
Carnaval has been part of her life since childhood
MzKafi B Bella was born in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, and says that Carnaval has always been part of her life.
Through her passion for dance and holistic living, she created IF by Kafi, a platform designed to help people develop physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Her signature method, “Interval Fitness™ Training”, combines:
- Cardio dance
- Strength-building techniques
- Mind-body balance
Training with masters of samba
Kafi’s journey in dance has been shaped by mentorship from renowned Brazilian sambistas in Los Angeles, including Valeria Ruggieri, Ana Laidley, and Jonia McClenney.
She also performed with respected dance companies such as:
- Mimulus Cia de Dança (at Jacob’s Pillow Dance School)
- Raiz Brazil Dance Company
Awards and recognition
Her dedication to Brazilian culture and dance earned her notable titles:
- Winner of the 2010 Brazilian Summer Beauty Pageant
- 2012 Queen of Brazilian Carnaval in Santa Barbara
She also led the Mariano Silva Carnaval Group during the Santa Barbara Solstice Parade in 2011 and 2012.
A deep connection to Brazil
Kafi dreams of visiting Brazil to experience its diversity firsthand—from the beaches of Rio de Janeiro to the industrial growth of São Paulo and the Afro-Brazilian cultural roots in Bahia and Pernambuco.
“I am touched by the spirit of Brazilians and their culture… I love how diversity is reflected in everything—from Carnaval to food and clothing.”
She highlights the richness of Brazil’s cultural mix, shaped by European, African, and Indigenous influences, as something truly unique and inspiring.
Teaching, media and new projects
Kafi teaches dance at the Brasil Brasil Cultural Center, sharing her passion with students in California.
She also planned to launch an online fitness show through IF by Kafi, expanding her reach into digital wellness.
In addition, she collaborates with her husband, Rich Bella, in their media company FocusBella, and appears as an interviewer on the lifestyle web show “In Focus.”
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Kafi B Bella?
A dancer, fitness instructor, and entrepreneur from Trinidad and Tobago based in Los Angeles.
2. What is IF by Kafi?
A fitness program combining dance, cardio, and strength training with a holistic approach.
3. What type of dance does she specialize in?
Primarily Brazilian samba and Carnaval-inspired dance styles.
4. Has she won any awards?
Yes, including Brazilian Summer Beauty Pageant (2010) and Queen of Brazilian Carnaval (2012).
5. What inspires her work?
Brazilian culture, diversity, and the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
