Kristina Rihanoff

Kristina Rihanoff is a renowned professional ballroom dancer, choreographer, and mental health advocate. She gained prominence as a professional dancer on the BBC’s “Strictly Come Dancing” from 2008 to 2015, captivating audiences with her exceptional talent and charisma. Beyond her dance career, Kristina has emerged as a compelling mental health speaker, drawing from her personal experiences to inspire and support others.

From a young age, Kristina demonstrated a passion for dance, beginning lessons at the age of five. Following her parents’ divorce during the tumultuous period of the Soviet Union’s dissolution, she took on the responsibility of contributing to her household’s income. By the age of 15, she was working as a part-time dance instructor, earning in a day what her mother, an engineer, made in a month. Her dedication and talent led her to international opportunities, and at 21, she was invited to teach Russian dancers in the United States. This role expanded to performances and choreographic projects across the U.S., China, Hong Kong, and Japan, solidifying her reputation in the dance community.

In recent years, Kristina has focused on mental health advocacy, using her platform to address the challenges faced by performers and the public alike. She has openly discussed her own struggles, including the pressures of the entertainment industry and personal experiences with mental health issues. Kristina has participated in podcasts with therapists like Ella McCrystal, emphasising the importance of mental well-being. Additionally, she has been involved in campaigns such as Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK, promoting movement and physical activity as vital components of mental health.

Organisations and event planners seek Kristina as a mental health speaker due to her authentic and relatable approach. Her journey from a challenging upbringing to international stardom, coupled with her openness about personal mental health struggles, resonates deeply with diverse audiences. Kristina’s ability to intertwine her dance experiences with mental health advocacy offers a unique perspective, making her presentations both informative and inspiring. Her commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting well-being makes her a valuable contributor to conferences, workshops, and public discussions.