Leo Vara is a multidisciplinary performing artist with over 13 years of experience spanning urban, contemporary, and traditional Mexican dance, circus arts, and audiovisual media. Born in Jalisco, Mexico, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Dance from the University of Guadalajara and has showcased his talents in 13 countries across the Americas and Europe as a performer, competitor, judge, choreographer, director, and organizer. In 2018, Leo established Nahual Move, an innovative research project merging urban and contemporary dance with Mexican cultural roots. That same year, he founded the neo-Mexican art collective Nahui and the independent cultural house Nahualcalli, both dedicated to forging connections between tradition

and modernity. In 2020, he launched the Teomanalli Art Festival, a multidisciplinary event celebrating the Day of the Dead from a neo-Mexican perspective. Through his visionary approach, Leo continues to transform the global dance community with meaningful artistic experiences.

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Luis Almazan is a multidisciplinary artist and entrepreneur born in Mexico City. Initially trained in culinary arts, he gained a deep appreciation for Mexico’s indigenous agriculture and rich culinary heritage. After culinary school, he moved to Vancouver and ventured into the visual effects industry, contributing his artistic talents to various feature films and series. Eager to share the authentic flavours he experienced in Mexico’s vibrant markets, Luis founded Xinachtli in 2020. Splitting his time between Mexico and Vancouver, he remains dedicated to preserving ancestral corn varieties at UBC’s Maya Garden, championing sustainable agriculture and cultural traditions. Through film, photography, and gastronomy, he unites creativity and heritage to forge meaningful connections with audiences. Whether developing visual effects or crafting traditional food products, Luis infuses each endeavour with cultural integrity and a passion for innovation.

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